More a geographical description of a region than a town, the Los Gatos Mountains is a favorite residence choice of Silicon Valley workers, among other reasons because of its rural ambiance, clean air, close proximity to employment, and highly-reputed school system. Thus, housing prices tend to be at least $100,000 more expensive than prices in any of the San Lorenzo Valley towns. There are a few housing associations, with the associated benefits of community water systems, parks, and road maintenance agreements. These include the subdivisions of Chemeketa Park and Redwood Estates. But for the most part, housing in the Los Gatos Mountains is far flung on both sides of Highway 17, reaching back on the west side to Boulder Creek and on the east to Soquel.

To the east, some homes included in Los Gatos Mountains are actually in Santa Clara County. Almost all housing units are single family residences.