When you think of San Mateo, it seems like just a neighborhood 20 miles south of San Francisco, but once you start looking at homes here, you first think, "Why is it so expensive?"

Just like New Yorkers tease New Jersey, people living in SF might consider those in the South Bay to be living a bit on the outskirts, but when you actually search for real estate, your eyes widen.

A typical house with a garage that barely fits two cars easily exceeds $2 million, and even an old ranch-style home built in the 1950s can attract competition if it's in a good school district.

The reason is simple. It's only 30-40 minutes from San Francisco and a quick drive to the major tech areas of Silicon Valley. Thus, there is high demand from people looking to make money, and the reputation of good school districts for raising kids leads to a steady influx of families.

Plus, transportation is convenient; the 101 and Interstate 280 highways pass through, and there are three main stops for the Caltrain commuter train, making it very easy to get anywhere in the Bay Area.

On weekends, strollers line up in front of downtown cafes, and it's common to see people buying fruit at the farmers' market and sitting on the grass to eat.

It has a quiet yet well-equipped lifestyle, striking a delicate balance between feeling like a city and a suburb.

However, that 'ambiguity' is what makes it attractive. It's not as noisy as San Francisco all day long, nor is it completely tech-centric like San Jose, allowing you to enjoy everything without any hassle.

When you go for a morning walk, you can subtly smell the ocean breeze, and in the neighborhood park, familiar faces repeat, nodding and greeting each other.

As you live here, you develop a sense of connection, and the rhythm of life settles gently. Of course, it's not all perfect. Rent prices keep rising, and having lunch at a restaurant can easily cost $20 for a single dish. In a neighborhood where Teslas, Volvos, and Lexuses are the norm, if your wallet is loose, you can quickly exceed your budget.

Still, many people choose to live here because that vague term, quality of life, actually resonates with them. On the way home after work, seeing the sky slightly tinted towards the Golden Gate in the evening sun gives a strange sense of satisfaction, making you think, "Well, I'm doing okay."

Whether you're busy or want to relax quietly, you can just grab a book and sit in the local library.

After spending just one day looking at homes here, you'll realize that it's not flashy, but it's a surprisingly nice neighborhood.