What to know when moving to Millbrae, CA
TL;DR: Millbrae at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A well-educated community with 50.5% holding a bachelor's degree and a 36.8% renter rate.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income of $157,567, making it financially attractive for many.
- The Reality Check:
- High median gross rent at $3,401 may be a challenge for some.
- Commute:
- Only 9.1% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for a competitive housing market with median home values around $1,929,700.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Millbrae is characterized by its high level of education, with over half of its residents holding a bachelor's degree. The median household income is notably high at $157,567, which indicates a financially stable community. With a significant portion of the population renting, at 36.8%, newcomers can expect a diverse range of housing options, albeit at high prices. The area experiences moderate precipitation, which could influence outdoor activities.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for affordable rent; the median gross rent is $3,401, which could strain budgets.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $3,401, indicating a high cost of living.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $1,929,700, reflecting the area's upscale housing market.
- 50.5% of the population has a bachelor's degree or higher, which contributes to the community's character.
- Poverty rate stands at 6.1%, suggesting economic stability.
- Renter percentage is 36.8%, showing a significant portion of the population rents their homes.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data for California shows a mixed landscape, with both property and violent crime rates significantly affecting residents. While the state annual rate for property crime is 1,764 per 100,000, which is 14% higher than the national rate, there has been a notable 26.1% decrease since 2022. Violent crime stands at 415.5 per 100,000, which is 27.7% above the national average but has also decreased by 17.4% over the same period.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 325.3.
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 1,546.9.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate decreased by 44.9% since 2022, currently at 3.2 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Millbrae provides access to a range of educational institutions in the surrounding area, with a total of 10 postsecondary schools nearby. This includes notable options like City College of San Francisco and San Francisco State University, both located in nearby San Francisco County.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 10
- Institutions with College Scorecard data: 9
- Nearby options include Alder Graduate School of Education and Canada College in San Mateo County.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES, College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While specific climate data is unavailable, Millbrae residents have access to several parks and outdoor spaces for recreation. Notable spots include:
- Bayfront Park - 4.6 stars from 1,156 reviews
- Junipero Serra Park - 4.5 stars from 448 reviews
- Central Park - 4.5 stars from 364 reviews
- Millbrae Spur Trail - 4.2 stars from 103 reviews
Source: Google Places API.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In San Mateo County, the unemployment rate is currently 3.5%, indicating a relatively stable job market. The total labor force comprises 419,578 individuals, with 404,690 currently employed.
- Unemployment rate: 3.5% as of December 2025.
- Employed: 404,690.
- Labor force: 419,578.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.