Professorville

Professorville: Historic homes and charm for buyers.

“Although not one of Palo Alto’s largest neighborhoods, Professorville, with its serene, leafy lanes and impeccably maintained historic homes, is one of the city’s most sought-after.”

Unparalleled in its collection of vintage, mid-20th century architecture, Professorville is high-ranking among the “Palo Alto Dream” boroughs. Dating back to the formation of Stanford University in 1891, the faculty of the time chose to purchase nearby real estate rather than lease property from the Stanford family. As such, the neighborhood’s name perfectly reflects those early inhabitants.

It is in this district that a significant portion of the city’s flawless architectural heritage resides. Victorians, Mission-style, Shingle and Colonial Revival, and particularly Craftsman homes line the borough’s boulevards. Because of their historical significance, many have been endowed with the strict protection afforded such landmarks. In fact, Professorville in its entirety is a Registered Historic District.

The district offers much more than its immaculately maintained, classic architecture. Residents treasure their neighborhood’s pedestrian-oriented location, offering easy access to downtown, El Camino Real, the CalTrain station, Palo Alto High School, and, of course, Stanford University. The past decade has also breathed new life into the community, bringing young families to the district, reviving its youthful atmosphere, and deepening its already well-rooted sense of community.