San Carlos residents take part in many activities throughout the year including Hometown Days, a celebration of all that is San Carlos each May. At the annual Art and Wine Fair each October, some 75,000 attendees enjoy the works of more than 275 local artists along with boutique wines, microbrews and 20 international food booths. Live entertainment is presented on two stages and a popular Family Zone is provided for the children’s amusement.

San Carlos is part of San Mateo County, a productive, rapidly growing economy boosted by technology, bioscience, and service industries. Its per capita incomes are among the highest in the country with unemployment rates among the lowest in the United States.

The CalTrain station, with its historical train depot, is a mere block away from the San Carlos downtown area. Adding to its history and promoting the 77-year history of San Carlos are two museums. The Hiller Aviation Museum explores the past century of flight with full-size replicas, restorations, and models of flying machines in northern California through the aircraft collection of Stanley Hiller. The Museum of San Carlos History displays photos, early maps, memorabilia and a 15-minute video history of the city.

With an excellent public education program, the schools in San Carlos intensively utilize the Internet in the classroom. The biennial Chicken's Ball is a PTA sponsored musical revue held by the San Carlos School District. It is the biggest school fundraiser of its kind in the United States. Higher education opportunities are available from two area community colleges and six major, neighboring universities including University of California at Berkeley and Stanford.

San Carlos is a short distance from major golf courses, the Pacific Ocean, state parks, camping, and more. "The City of Good Living” awaits those ready to embrace the good life.