Explore St. Francis Acres

St. Francis Acres is a south Mountain View neighborhood near El Camino Real and El Monte Avenue, known for 1950s ranch homes on quiet cul-de-sacs and walkable McKelvey Park.

About St. Francis Acres, Mountain View

St. Francis Acres is a residential neighborhood in south Mountain View, generally bounded by El Camino Real, El Monte Avenue and Permanente Creek, with Gilmore Street running through its western side. Before World War II the land was largely prune orchards, typical of the Santa Clara Valley at the time. Home building began in the early 1950s, and most of the neighborhood took shape during that decade. Today St. Francis Acres real estate offers a classic mid-century Mountain View setting about a mile from downtown.


Moving to St. Francis Acres

Moving to St. Francis Acres means settling into a neighborhood of single-story streets, cul-de-sacs and mature landscaping near the Los Altos border. The street layout limits through traffic, so most cars on the interior streets belong to people who live there. Neighbors on some blocks keep long-running traditions, such as an annual Fourth of July gathering on Gilmore Street. For buyers moving to Mountain View, the neighborhood combines an established residential feel with easy access to El Camino Real.


Cost of Living & Housing in St. Francis Acres

St. Francis Acres homes for sale are positioned in the middle to upper part of the Mountain View single-family market, with added interest because the area falls within the Los Altos School District. The housing stock is mostly modestly sized ranch-style homes built in the 1950s. Lots are typically in the 5,000 to 6,000 square foot range, which is common for this era of Mountain View subdivisions. Many original homes have been remodeled or expanded, and some owners have added a second story.


Getting Around St. Francis Acres

El Camino Real runs along the edge of St. Francis Acres, giving direct access to Palo Alto, Los Altos and Sunnyvale. Highway 85 and Interstate 280 are a short drive south, while Highway 101 is reached via Shoreline Boulevard or Rengstorff Avenue. The downtown Mountain View Caltrain station and VTA light rail terminal are about a mile away for commuting up the Peninsula or into San Jose. Bike routes along Miramonte Avenue and nearby streets make short trips easy without a car.


Local Amenities & Things to Do in St. Francis Acres

McKelvey Park, at Miramonte Avenue and Park Drive, has a ball field and open green space within walking distance of most homes. The El Monte and El Camino Real area offers neighborhood shopping, and Gemello Village and other centers along El Camino Real add groceries and services. Downtown Mountain View's Castro Street is a short drive or bike ride away for restaurants and the weekend farmers market. Downtown Los Altos is also close by for additional shopping and dining.


Schools & Education in St. Francis Acres

Although St. Francis Acres is in the city of Mountain View, it is generally within the Los Altos School District for elementary and junior high school. Homes are commonly served by Springer Elementary and Blach Intermediate, though some sources list Almond Elementary and Egan Junior High depending on the street and year. High school students typically attend Los Altos High School in the Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District. Assignments can vary by address and over time, so confirm school boundaries with each district.


Why Buyers Choose St. Francis Acres

Buyers choose St. Francis Acres for its 1950s ranch homes, cul-de-sac streets and location between downtown Mountain View and Los Altos. The neighborhood offers a mid-century single-family setting that is close to El Camino Real, McKelvey Park and everyday shopping. Its place within the Los Altos School District is another reason many buyers include it in their search. If you are ready to buy or sell a home in St. Francis Acres, contact Jessica Heredia for local guidance from start to finish.

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