Welcome to the February edition of Living Silicon Valley!
February in the bay area has a great energy to it. It’s that sweet spot where winter is still here, but the calendar is already nudging us toward spring.
This month is full of reasons to get out and reconnect. Lunar New Year celebrations, neighborhood gatherings, pop-up markets, live music, and yes, plenty of big-game watch parties. It’s also the final stretch for some seasonal favorites before they fade out for the year.
If you’re looking for a reason to explore locally, support small businesses, or just enjoy what the Bay has to offer, February is a really good time to do it.
Mortgage Rate Update
Santa Clara County Mortgage Rate Update – As of January 15, 2026
Mortgage rates showed some upward pressure early in the year, with the latest available numbers indicating:
15-year fixed-rate mortgages: approximately ~6.17 % (up ~0.01 %)
5-year adjustable-rate mortgages (5/1 ARMs): about ~6.81 % (up modestly)
These align reasonably with broader California and national trends — early-year averages were elevated as markets reacted to economic data and inflation expectations.
Market context:
Mortgage rates at the start of 2025 were elevated relative to late-2024, with both fixed and adjustable products near multi-year highs.
The 30-year fixed averaged close to ~6.87 % nationally, reflecting persistent borrowing costs early in the year.
ARM products remained competitive but still priced near fixed rates in this environment.
Individual rates depend on factors like credit, loan size, and down payment. For tailor-made offers, consult a trusted Santa Clara lender or reputable online comparison platforms.
Skate Under the Palms 📆 November 28, 2025 - February 8, 2026
📍 127 S Market St San Jose, CA 95113
2026 Palo Alto Lunar New Year Fair 📆 February 22, 2026 @ 11:00 am. - 4:00 pm.
📍Mitchell Park Community Center, 3700 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, CA, 94303
