Where to exchange money in San Mateo
If you’re planning a trip to San Mateo, it will definitely be useful to know how to obtain the local currency. Additionally, you may want to be aware of the current exchange rate and the most convenient places to exchange your money.
On this page, we’ll provide you with a list of the best places to exchange currency in San Mateo. We’ll also introduce you to an alternative, Wise, which may be more cost-effective and save you the hassle of visiting a physical location.
Where to exchange money in San Mateo
If you’re planning a trip to San Mateo, it will definitely be useful to know how to obtain the local currency. Additionally, you may want to be aware of the current exchange rate and the most convenient places to exchange your money.
On this page, we’ll provide you with a list of the best places to exchange currency in San Mateo. We’ll also introduce you to an alternative, Wise, which may be more cost-effective and save you the hassle of visiting a physical location.
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From January 2026, transfers from the US are more expensive when you pay with cash, checks, or money orders. A 1% tax is being introduced due to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. But you won’t pay this tax on Wise transfers. Learn more
Currency exchanges in San Mateo
If you’re still into the idea of carrying cash around and exchanging it, here are some popular foreign currency exchange locations in San Mateo.
One reminder, though: there’s no such thing as fee-free or 0% commission foreign exchange transactions. So, always check the mid-market exchange rate in advance, so you know how much your money’s worth.
| Money Changer | Address | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Western Union | 191 E 3rd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA | +1 650-342-2723 |
| MoneyGram | 4242 S El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA | +1 650-573-5521 |
| MoneyGram | 201 N Amphlett Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA | +1 650-343-3537 |
| Orlandi Valuta | 244 S B St Fabiana Valle, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA | +1 650-343-3203 |
| Western Union | 610 S Norfolk St, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA | +1 650-548-4700 |
| Western Union | 921 E Hillsdale Blvd, Foster City, CA 94404, USA | +1 650-377-0711 |
| Western Union | 1160 Broadway, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA | +1 650-347-3026 |
| MoneyGram | 987 E Hillsdale Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94404, USA | +1 650-570-4631 |
| MoneyGram | 1519 S Claremont St, San Mateo, CA 94402, USA | +1 650-286-1914 |
| ICE International Currency Exchange | Airport Access Rd, San Francisco, CA 94128, USA | +1 650-821-0900 |
| MoneyGram | 39 N B St, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA | +1 650-347-7052 |
| Currency Exchange International | 447 Great Mall Dr, Milpitas, CA 95035, USA | +1 408-934-9500 |
| Western Union | 1100 El Camino Real, Belmont, CA 94002, USA | +1 650-596-1730 |
| MoneyGram | 615 E 3rd Ave STE A, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA | +1 650-444-4752 |
| Western Union | 600 E 3rd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA | +1 650-344-5911 |
Notice anything wrong with our results table? Let us know - If there is a genuine mistake, we will do our best to resolve it.
US dollar rate today
First off, in case you’re wondering something along the lines of “does United States use US dollar?”, the answer is yes. The currency in San Mateo — and the rest of United States— is US dollar
You can also find it written as USD in currency exchange shops.
What you should know about exchanging money in San Mateo
Before exchanging money in San Mateo or any foreign city, it's important to be informed to avoid excessive charges and get the best deals. Consider opening a bank account in the US for long-term stays or substantial investments like buying property or cars.
1. Beware of 'zero fee' services
Services claiming 'no commission' often offer poor exchange rates, not reflecting the mid-market rate, leading to hidden profits for them.
2. Check the exchange rate beforehand
Familiarize yourself with the base rate to identify a bad deal from exchange services.
3. Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels
Convenience comes at a price, as airports and hotels usually offer poor rates and high transaction fees.
4. Use ATMs strategically
Check if your home bank has partnerships in the US banks to avoid extra ATM fees, and inform your bank before traveling.
5. Opt for local currency
When using an ATM abroad, choose to be charged in US dollars for a fairer rate and avoid undisclosed exchange rates and additional fees.
Currency exchange bureau who?
Forget all about walking around the city in search for fair exchange rates for a low fee.
With a Wise Account you can access over 70 currencies wherever you are - and all with a single card.
And what's even better, at the mid-market exchange rate. Low fees and fair rates all around the world, that's the Wise way!
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Other currency exchanges
Bottom line
As you can see, there are plenty of options for exchanging money in San Mateo. Remember to do your research on the exchange rate and get the most out of your trip. For a fuss-free alternative to exchanging cash, check out Wise.
Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.