Many parents are considering moving to San Jose for their children's schools.

I often hear from people I consult with, "The school district is more important than the house." However, when you search online, there is so much information that it can actually be confusing. In San Jose, there are multiple school districts within the same city, so a slight difference in address can lead to different assigned schools.

Many Korean parents first look at the Evergreen area. This neighborhood has been known for its good school district for a long time. Silver Oak Elementary and Chaboya Middle School are frequently mentioned as reputable schools among parents. In fact, the proportion of Asian students is relatively high, leading to a stable educational environment. Perhaps that's why many Korean families continue to move to this area.

However, good school districts come with a price. Single-family homes in Evergreen have maintained high prices over the past few years, so you should expect to pay around $1.3 million to $1.5 million. For first-time homebuyers, this can be quite a burden. Still, parents who prioritize their children's education often find this acceptable.

If you're looking for a more realistic price range, I also recommend the Berryessa area. This area has schools like Morrill Middle School and Piedmont Hills High School, which have decent ratings, and home prices are somewhat lower than in Evergreen. You can find single-family homes in the range of $1 million to $1.2 million, making it popular among families just starting out.

If you have high school students, school choice becomes even more important. Leland High School in southern San Jose consistently receives good ratings, and if you go a bit further west, you'll find the Fremont Union High School District, which borders Cupertino. Monta Vista High School and Lynbrook High School are known as prestigious high schools in the Bay Area. However, if you're aiming for these schools, it's more realistic to look for homes in Cupertino or Sunnyvale.

Korean parents often compare Evergreen and Almaden Valley. Evergreen is convenient for living due to its proximity to Korean markets and churches, while Almaden Valley is praised for its quiet residential atmosphere and good elementary schools, making it a great place to raise children. Both areas have active parental involvement in schools, which helps maintain a positive educational environment.

One important thing I want to mention is that before signing a contract for a home, you must check the assigned school with the address. There are cases where the school district changes even with just one street in between. Even if a real estate ad states "good school district," the actual assigned school may differ, so it's best to verify directly on the school district's website using the School Finder.

The timing of your move is also important. California public schools usually start registration in the spring, so it's advisable to complete your move before the end of summer break if possible. Popular schools may have early registration, so preparing in advance can ease your mind.

To summarize the budget, if you're aiming for the top school districts, it's realistic to consider around $1.3 million to $1.6 million in Evergreen or Almaden Valley. If you want to reduce the burden a bit, Berryessa can also be a good choice. I always tell parents that while school districts are important, you should also consider commute distances and your family's lifestyle. Children attend school for a few years, but parents have to commute every day.

Ultimately, a good home is not necessarily the most expensive one, but the one that fits our family best. By carefully comparing factors like your child's age, budget, and job location, you can make a choice you won't regret.