San Mateo County’s Unrevealed Rural Beauty: Why It’s Not as Densely Populated as You Think
An Overview of San Mateo County’s Population Density
Contrary to popular belief, San Mateo County is not densely populated. Despite being a suburban county with beautiful cities like those along the Peninsula from San Francisco to Palo Alto, the reality is quite different from what one might expect from aerial views or highway journeys.
Only 32% of the county is developed area, with a population density of just 1,700 people per square mile. This is significantly lower than the population density of San Francisco County, which stands at 18,600 people per square mile. For comparison, the mighty city of Paris has a population density of 53,000 per square mile, and New York City boasts an incredible 29,000 people per square mile.
Land Use and Development in San Mateo County
Most of San Mateo County is made up of wild or rural areas, with only a fraction of its 450 square mile land area being developed. About 42% of the county's land is protected open space, encompassing 119,000 acres. Another 62% is made up of grassland or forest, while less than one-third, or 17,000 acres, is developed area. This includes 190 miles of trails in 17,000 acres of County Parks, ensuring easy access to natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and the Crystal Springs Watershed both cover large portions of the county, providing vast natural areas that are rarely visited by most residents. These areas are home to wildlife, diverse ecosystems, and offer numerous hiking and nature trails.
The Geographic and Urban Landscape of San Mateo County
Driving through San Mateo County along Highway 101 or taking a train on the Caltrain, it is easy to perceive the county as a continuous line of suburban cities. However, these cities are relatively narrow, stretching just a couple of miles wide. They are squeezed between the San Francisco Bay to the east and the steep, forested Santa Cruz Mountains to the west. Beyond the mountains lies the Pacific Ocean. The coastal areas, from Half Moon Bay to Daly City, are mostly farmland or undeveloped land, isolated from the metropolitan area on the other side of the mountains.
This unique geography contributes to the perceived density of cities and the apparent vastness of open spaces. While the urban areas are indeed suburban and affluent, the surrounding natural areas enhance the quality of life for residents by offering extensive opportunities for outdoor recreation and tranquility.
Conclusion: San Mateo County’s Rural Charm
Living in San Mateo County is a reminder of the coexistence of dense urban living and natural beauty. While the developed areas are undoubtedly part of a suburban landscape, the vast stretches of undeveloped land and protected open spaces contribute to a rural charm that is often overshadowed by visualization or travel. Understanding the true density and geography of the county can help paint a more accurate picture of what makes it a unique and attractive place to live.