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Whether you're looking for a big house or small (or a pair of houses), price is usually the most compelling factor.

But if one is willing to compromise on location or amenities, it's possible to maximize what you can get at your particular price point.

At the lower end one can find a pair of comparably walkable homes in Menlo Park and Mountain View. The first is a smaller, older home (but upgraded) on a bigger lot. The second is both nature- and commute-friendly.

As the price tag increases, so do the options. At the higher end, for example, a pair of houses in downtown Palo Alto is on the market for close to $3 million. The older cottage can be rented out while the two-story, contemporary home is ideal for folks who prefer an elevator.

Walkability scores range from 5 in Portola Valley, which is closer to horse trails than restaurants, to 92 in downtown Palo Alto, just blocks from University Avenue with its wealth of choices.

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