University South Homes and Neighborhood Guide
Palo Alto neighborhood guide
University South covers the blocks between Homer Avenue and Embarcadero Road, from Alma Street to Middlefield Road, just south of the University Avenue shops and restaurants. It is a walkable, tree lined part of downtown with a real mix of housing and a slower feel once you step off University.
Scott Park and Heritage Park are both here, and the Museum of American Heritage occupies the historic Williams House on Homer Avenue. Downtown, the Caltrain station and the Stanford campus are all close enough to walk or bike.
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University South is shaded. Borders are approximate, see the Palo Alto map for the full picture.
At a glance
- Homer Avenue to Embarcadero Road
- Alma Street to Middlefield Road
- Steps from University Avenue
- Scott Park and Heritage Park in the neighborhood
- Museum of American Heritage at the Williams House on Homer
Homes and Streets
Single family homes from the early 1900s share the blocks with duplexes, small apartment buildings and newer condos, especially closer to downtown. Lots are generally modest, architecture ranges from Craftsman and Colonial Revival to contemporary rebuilds, and the closer you get to University Avenue the more multifamily you will see. Homes here are prized for the walk to downtown and the quick trip to Stanford.
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Video Tours
I film walkthroughs of homes across the Peninsula and Silicon Valley, and new Palo Alto tours are added as I shoot them. See all of my home tours on Instagram →
Parks and Open Space
Public Schools Nearby
School assignments follow district attendance boundaries, which can split a neighborhood and change over time. Always confirm the school for a specific address with the district, for example the Palo Alto Unified School District.
Getting Around
The Palo Alto Caltrain station is a few blocks north on University Avenue. Alma Street, Middlefield Road and Embarcadero Road are the main local routes, with US 101 reached via Embarcadero or University Avenue.
Nearby Neighborhoods
University South FAQ
Where is University South in Palo Alto?
University South covers the blocks between Homer Avenue and Embarcadero Road, from Alma Street to Middlefield Road, just south of the University Avenue shops and restaurants. It is a walkable, tree lined part of downtown with a real mix of housing and a slower feel once you step off University.
What are homes like in University South?
Single family homes from the early 1900s share the blocks with duplexes, small apartment buildings and newer condos, especially closer to downtown. Lots are generally modest, architecture ranges from Craftsman and Colonial Revival to contemporary rebuilds, and the closer you get to University Avenue the more multifamily you will see. Homes here are prized for the walk to downtown and the quick trip to Stanford.
What public schools are near University South?
Public schools near University South include Addison Elementary School, Greene Middle School, Palo Alto High School. School assignments follow district attendance boundaries and can change, so confirm the school for a specific address with the district.
What parks are near University South?
Parks and open space near University South include Scott Park, Heritage Park, Rinconada Park.
How do I get around from University South?
The Palo Alto Caltrain station is a few blocks north on University Avenue. Alma Street, Middlefield Road and Embarcadero Road are the main local routes, with US 101 reached via Embarcadero or University Avenue.
How can I find homes for sale in University South?
Browse current listings in Palo Alto on Joseph Suarez's site, or join his off-market list to hear about homes before they are listed publicly. Thinking of selling? Request a free home valuation for a local estimate based on recent nearby sales.
Thinking about University South?
Whether you are buying or selling, Joseph Suarez can walk you through recent sales, street by street pricing and what is coming up before it hits the market.
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Updated October 2026 by Joseph Suarez, Realtor with Coldwell Banker in Burlingame, DRE 02085594.
Sources: City of Palo Alto neighborhoods, Palo Alto Unified School District, Wikipedia: Palo Alto, California. Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed.