San Mateo County

Location and Geography

San Mateo County stretches along the San Francisco Peninsula in California, bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west and San Francisco Bay to the east. A spine of forested coastal mountains separates its foggy coast from the densely populated bayside cities.

Economy and Innovation

The county sits at the northern edge of Silicon Valley and hosts a concentration of technology firms, biotechnology, and the region's major international airport. Its bayside corridor is one of the most economically dynamic areas in the state.

Coast and Recreation

Beyond the urban edge, the county protects dramatic coastal bluffs, redwood-clad ridges, and open-space preserves. Beaches, trails, and scenic byways draw visitors seeking nature close to the city.