San Mateo, CA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

San Mateo is located about 20 miles south of San Francisco. The city enjoys a lower population density than its northern neighbor although it can be more expensive. Additionally, residents enjoy mild weather in addition to natural beauty in San Mateo with stunning views of San Francisco Bay along 40 miles of coastline. 

Cost of Living & Taxes

San Mateo's cost of living is almost double the U.S. average and substantially higher than most of California. On a 100 point national cost of living scale San Mateo's overall cost of living score is 250.6 compared to California's 149.9. Undoubtedly the main factor is housing which is five times more expensive than the national average and almost double the state average. Furthermore, the only area in which San Mateo pays less than either state or national average are utility costs. 

In terms of taxes, sales tax is 9.63% which includes the 6% state sales tax plus 3.63% San Mateo County taxes. The average property tax in San Mateo County is 0.56%. California does have a state income tax which ranges from 1% to 12.3%. Social Security is not taxed however other forms of retirement income are subject to normal income taxes. 

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment

There are a variety of leisure options for active adults in the San Mateo area, including: 

Art & Performances

• Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University
• Peninsula Ballet Theatre

Historical Sites and Museums

• Millbrae Museum
• San Carlos Museum of History
• San Mateo County History Museum

Outdoor Activities

• Coyote Point Recreation Area
• Crystal Springs Golf Course
• Peninsula Golf & Country Club
• San Francisco Bay Trail

Climate

The San Mateo area sees about 2 inches of rain annually, much of it falling during the month of February. Average winter temperatures range from 47° to 57°. Moreover, summer in San Mateo is warm and humid with summer temperatures averaging between 55° and 70° with 75% humidity.

Health Care

In terms of healthcare, the closest hospitals to San Mateo are: 

San Mateo Medical Center is a public hospital and clinic system which is part of San Mateo County Health additionally it is recognized by The Joint Commission as a top performer on key quality measures.

Mills-Peninsula Health Services-Burlingame is a 241 bed hospital that has won Healthgrades America's 50 Best Hospitals for three years in a row. They have also received multiple awards from the American Heart/American Stroke Association as well as a 5 star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Sequoia Hospital is a 330 bed hospital with an Advanced Primary Stroke Center designation. Moreover the hospital has earned Leapfrog Group's A rating for patient safety seven consecutive years.