A community of summer cottages built in and around the area's fruit orchards, Saratoga has grown into a popular destination for year-round family living. The city is situated at the entrance to a historic pass in the lush redwood-forested Santa Cruz Mountains. Although the incorporated city of Saratoga dates back only to 1956, the town's history is over a century long. Today, Saratoga's 30,000 residents proudly preserve their town's pioneer heritage.Located southwest of San Jose along the rolling foothills of the Silicon Valley, Saratoga is well known for its superior schools, low crime rate and charming village atmosphere. Students in grades K-12 attend esteemed schools of the Saratoga Union Elementary and Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High school districts, as well as a variety of prestigious private schools. Those looking to attain a higher education may apply to prestigious universities nearby. The city's government is inclusive and values community involvement. Such involvement helped create a rise in jobs available to Saratoga residents.
This town also ranked 26th in Worth magazine's list of 250 richest towns. Saratoga gives its residents a tranquil lifestyle with plenty to do. The community hosts a variety of special events and celebrations year-round. Saratoga's real estate market includes a variety of residential styles including single-family detached homes, estates, condominiums, townhouses. From sprawling California ranches to turn-of-the-century two-story homes, there are homes for sale in Saratoga to suit anyone. As a Saratoga citizen, one can feel the small-town residential atmosphere that this community strives to retain.
The earliest residents of the Saratoga area were the Ohlone, who camped in the pass during their treks to the Pacific Ocean. Many years later, Mexican settlers acquired the land. In the mid-19th century, the area's abundant redwood forests spurred the development of a thriving lumber industry. Several mills were built, including a sawmill, a flourmill and a paper mill. In 1865, residents voted to name their town Saratoga after Congress Springs at Saratoga, New York. The town's earliest industry, aside from lumber, was agriculture. Apricots, cherries, French prunes and grapes grew particularly well. Many wineries were established and a Blossom Festival was held each spring in celebration of the arrival of the growing season. By the turn of the century, Saratoga had become a haven for wealthy San Franciscans, who built ornate homes overlooking the verdant valley. The town soon became more residential than agricultural, and residents voted to incorporate in 1956 in order to prevent industrial development. Saratoga today remains a desirable community for residents of all ages.
Locals are justifiably proud of their city, a pride that they celebrate at several events each year. Ongoing events include the Farmer's Market, the Montalvo Concert Series and the Mountain Winery Concert Series. March brings the Mustard Festival and the Montalvo Easter Sunday Brunch, while the Santa Cruz Mountain Winegrowers Vintner's Festival takes place in June. By far the most popular event on Saratoga's social calendar is Celebrate Saratoga, which occurs each September. Gourmet food, wine, six stages of entertainment and a kids' "Fun Zone" are just a few of the attractions that draw hundreds of visitors each fall.
Saratoga is well known throughout the state for its excellent schools. Elementary and middle school students are served by the Saratoga Union School District. High school students attend one of two public schools in the Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District. Schools in both districts are ranked among the best in the state. For post-secondary education, West Valley College is located in Saratoga. Also within driving distance are Stanford University, Cogswell Polytechnical College, San Jose State University, Santa Clara University, three campuses of the University of California, and many other excellent colleges and universities. Saratoga's Parks and Recreation Department maintains a number of parks for the enjoyment of residents. Facilities range in size and scope from 15.5-acre Hakone Gardens, which features bamboo and water-strolling gardens, to the half-acre Saratoga Historical Park, the site of three of the city's historic buildings. Other parks offer tennis courts, barbeque areas, walking paths, playgrounds, basketball and volleyball courts, soccer fields and more.
