Are you searching for the perfect beach town with amazing weather and friendly neighbors? Then you should think about moving to El Granada, California. Granada is a coastal village in Northern California, located just south of Half Moon Bay. It’s most well known for its beautiful beaches and popular surfing areas.
Named after the Spanish city of Granada, the village is famous for its unique street layout, which was designed by architect and city planner Daniel Burnham (who also designed the Flatiron Building in New York City).
Today, El Granada is a good place to live for families and frequent beachgoers who want surfing, sunshine, and excellent schools. To help you decide if it’s the right place for you, here is everything you need to know about living in El Granada, CA.
Where Is El Granada, CA?
El Granada, CA is in northern San Mateo County, in a less populated area along the Pacific Ocean. It’s home to Maverick’s Beach, which is a popular surfing spot where waves are known to get as high as 60 feet. Nature, hiking trails, and protected areas at Rancho Corral De Tierra, Farmers Daughter Trail, and Pillar Point Bluff also surround it.
California State Route 1, aka Cabrillo Highway, runs through El Granada, offering easy access to San Francisco and other nearby cities. Public transportation via bus is also available. Neighboring towns include Montara, Moss Beach, and Half Moon Bay.
El Granada is about 25 miles or a 40 minute drive from San Francisco and 44 miles or a 1 hour drive from San Jose.
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El Granada Population & Demographics
According to the 2020 census, the El Granada population is 5481. It’s a somewhat sparsely populated area, and the population density is 1,114.3 residents per square mile. The population has also remained consistent over the years, only increasing by 0.25% between 2010 and 2020.
It’s a secluded, affluent area popular among families and retirees. About 18% of residents are under 18, while 18% are over 65. Meanwhile, only 8% of residents living in El Granada, CA are in their 20s. The average household size is 2.7 residents.
The median age is 48.4, which is 30% higher than the rest of California. The median household income is also $216,104 per year, more than double the statewide median.
The racial and ethnic breakdown is 86.9% white (85.2% white, non-Hispanic), 9.8% Hispanic or Latino, 2.9% Asian, 0.4% Black or African American and 3.8% two or more races.
Other El Granada Demographics
- 53% of the El Granada, CA population is male, and 47% is female
- 94.1% of residents have a high school diploma, and 56.1% have a bachelor’s degree
- The foreign-born population is 12.7%
Living in El Granada, CA is very safe, according to data deemed reliable by the FBI. The total crime rate is 925 crimes per 100,000 residents, which is 60% lower than the rest of the country and 67% lower than the California crime rate. The violent crime rate is 56% lower than the national average, while the property crime rate is 61% lower.
The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office handles crime in El Granada with the assistance of 117 sworn officers and 14 civilian employees.
Cost of Living in El Granada
If you’re planning on moving to El Granada, the cost of living may be a concern. A good way to assess affordability is to consider the cost of living index, which uses a scale of 100 to compare the average price of consumer goods in an area to the rest of the US.
The COLI for El Granada is 170, which indicates it’s about 70% more expensive than the average US city. The Family Budget Calculator developed by the Economic Policy Institute shows that the average family of four with two adults and two kids needs to earn $193,184 per year to afford to live in San Mateo County.
Typical El Granada living expenses
- Loaf of bread: $5.09
- A gallon of milk: $3.19
- Hamburger: $6.73
- Gallon of gas: $4.70
- Visit to the doctor: $163.63
- Average El Granada electricity bill: $234.11
Source: Numbeo
The high value of El Granada real estate is one of the biggest factors impacting the cost of living. Redfin shows that the median price of homes for sale in El Granada, CA is $1.91 million. The median price per square foot of El Granada homes for sale is $615.
Most residents living in El Granada, CA are homeowners and only about 19% of the real estate market is rented out. According to Rentcafe there are no large scale apartment buildings and 52% or rentals are small scale complexes while 48% are single family homes. Rent prices start around $2,000 for a studio and go up to $4700 for a three bedroom.
El Granada Neighborhoods | Where to Live in El Granada
Moving to El Granada offers amazing weather, prime real estate, and sandy beaches within walking distance, no matter where you settle down. Although it doesn’t have many distinct neighborhoods, it is divided into a few subdivisions, each offering something unique. Here are the best places to live in El Granada.
Princeton-By-The Sea | A Picturesque Community on the Coast
Princeton-By-The Sea is a charming unincorporated community along the coast that boasts fantastic restaurants, boat docks, shopping destinations, and breathtaking views.
Clipper Ridge | A Well Maintained Neighborhood with Plenty of Green Space
Clipper Ridge is a popular neighborhood on the east side of Highway 1, north of El Granada. It features well-maintained streets, a strong sense of community, towering eucalyptus trees, and a community park.
El Granada Highlands | A Breathtaking Neighborhood in a Central Location
El Granada Highlands occupies the inland area in the heart of the community just above Route 1, which features spacious, multi-million dollar El Granada CA real estate and easy access to Quarry Park.
El Granada Weather & Climate
The weather in El Granada is typically pleasant throughout the year. According to the Koppen classification system, it has a Mediterranean climate, which indicates short, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The temperature usually stays between 44°F and 66°F, although it rarely goes below 37°F or above 75°F. Mid-July through September is usually the best time to visit El Granada.
Snow is not an issue. However, if you’re planning on moving to El Granada, you may want to pack an umbrella because the city receives an average of 24 inches of rain per year.
Things to Do in El Granada
From El Granada’s beaches to its impressive parks, there are many exciting attractions and outdoor activities available to residents. For shopping, search for businesses related to your interests at the Shoppes at Harbor Village, Strawflower Village, or the Spanish Town Shoppes in Half Moon Bay. Here are your top choices if you’re searching for more fun things to do in El Granada, CA.
Maverick’s Beach
Maverick’s Beach is a legendary El Granada beach known for its massive waves and annual surfing competition.
Pillar Point, Princeton-by-the-Sea, Calif., Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 (650) 728-1572
Jetwave Distillery
Jetwave Distillery is an award-winning local distillery dedicated to the cultivation of unique spirits. It offers a restaurant, bar, nightclub, and event space.
155 Broadway, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 (650) 291-8835
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Quarry Park
Quarry Park is a 517-acre nature area full of gorgeous Eucalyptus trees, picnic areas, and a 1-mile trail, making it one of the best things to do in El Granada for outdoor adventurers.
Santa Maria Ave & Columbus Street, El Granada, CA 94018 (650) 355-8289
Additional El Granada Attractions
The local Parks and Recreation Department also has a list of events on its website if you’re looking for more activities and public outings.
El Granada Restaurants
If you’re in the mood for a good meal, there are many good restaurants in El Granada offering everything from seafood to barbecue. Here are a few of the best El Granada restaurants.
The Press
The Press El Granada is a local hotspot offering classic breakfast food, grilled cheeses, salads, small bites, and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
107 Sevilla Ave, El Granada, CA 94018 (650) 713-5265
Barbara’s Fishtrap
Barbara’s Fishtrap is a laid-back seafood joint serving salads, soups, sandwiches, and specialty plates made with the freshest catch of the day in a dining room overlooking Half Moon Bay.
281 Capistrano Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Breakwater Barbecue
Breakwater Barbecue is one of the top El Granada CA restaurants if you’re hungry for smoked meats and offers Texas-style brisket, ribs, sausages and homemade sides.
30 Ave Portola #1B, El Granada, CA 94018 (650) 713-5303
Jobs in El Granada
The economy of El Granada is primarily based on industries such as agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, and mining. Although many residents are employed in fields such as healthcare, education, and scientific and technical services. Plus, it’s only a short drive to Silicon Valley and the Bay Area, which offers many opportunities in the technology sectors for those willing to commute.
El Granda is more of a peaceful beach town than a major economic center and tends to attract retirees and those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. However, excellent employment opportunities are just a quick drive away.
Major employers in San Mateo County:
- Plateau Systems (San Mateo)
- YouTube LLC (San Bruno)
- Box Inc (Redwood City)
- Kaiser Permanente Medical Center (San Francisco)
- SRI International (Menlo Park)
According to Payscale employment data, the average salary in the San Mateo area is $115,000. From preschool teachers to veterinary receptionists, employment seekers will also find plenty of excellent El Granada jobs.
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El Granada Schools
Cabrillo USD in Half Moon Bay is the El Granada School District. El Granada Elementary School is located within the community and serves about 371 students in K-5. The Wilkinson School is also an independent elementary school in El Granada, CA, that serves students in pre-K through eighth grade. It boasts small class sizes, WASC accreditation, and specialized classes in music, art, STEAM, Spanish, creativity, and garden science.
Half Moon Bay High is the main El Granada high school. It’s a well-respected school serving about 1,000 students in grades 9-12 and has a 90% graduation rate. Students living in El Granada, CA also have access to the Half Moon Bay Branch of the San Mateo public library system for books and other resources.
El Granada Statistics & Information
- El Granada CA County: San Mateo County
- El Granada area: 4.8 square miles
- El Granada CA zip code: 94018
- El Granada area code: 650
- El Granada elevation: 39 ft
- El Granada time zone: Pacific Standard Time (UTC-7 and -8)
- The closest airport to El Granada: The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 23 miles away.
El Granada, CA Map
Discover more restaurants, search businesses related to your interests, and find fun things to do in the El Granada zip code with this map.
Thinking about relocating to this peaceful beach town? Our dedicated El Granada CA movers will gladly take you wherever you need to go. Call (650) 284-2931 today for a free quote.
