TOP 6 NEIGHBORHOODS IN THE EAST BAY

BERKELEY 

* School ranking takes into account the grades of all the public schools of the district(s) that serve an area and weighs each school’s score by the number of students the school serves. 

Berkely has a young and energetic atmosphere, mostly due to the university located within it. This has enhanced the nightlife, and the organic food and wine movement are blossoming. The best place to visit is Telegraph Avenue, which is lined with eccentric shops and characters, embodying Berkeley’s counterculture. Or you could go to Tilden Regional Park, which is perched high atop a hill, offering sweeping views and tons of recreation options, including a golf course. 

Check out Moe’s Books on Telegraph Avenue – https://www.moesbooks.com/
  

OAKLAND 

* School ranking takes into account the grades of all the public schools of the district(s) that serve an area and weighs each school’s score by the number of students the school serves. 

Oakland is a vibrant and vivacious city, filled with local eateries, cafes, and local artists. Lake Meritt, located in the heart of Oakland, is a natural reprieve from the business of the city. On Saturdays, there is a locally frequented farmers market, located near Oakland’s Lake Merritt at Splash Pad Park. With over 40 farmers, 30 specialty food purveyors, and everything else a good farmers market ought to have: it is truly a must-see (and must-eat) event.   

Check out what other farmers markets are happening – https://www.visitoakland.com/blog/post/the-best-farmers-markets-in-oakland/ 

ALBANY 

* School ranking takes into account the grades of all the public schools of the district(s) that serve an area and weighs each school’s score by the number of students the school serves. 

The best part of Albany, second to their drive to become the greenest city in America, is Solano Avenue. Solano is a shopping area filled with unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Unlike the usual shopping area, most of the shops are small businesses, either run by families or up-and-coming locals, giving it a personal feel that is often lacking in the big cities. Albany is surrounded by beautiful scenery, like the Albany Waterfront Trail, providing their residents a break from the monotony of working from home.   

While you are on Solano Avenue check out Enoteca Mediterraneo – https://enoteca-mediterraneo.business.site/ 

KENSINGTON 

* School ranking takes into account the grades of all the public schools of the district(s) that serve an area and weighs each school’s score by the number of students the school serves. 

Kensington offers refuge from the hectic life of the city with its quaint, small-town atmosphere. Here people know each other, and you can become a regular and your favorite coffee shop. Kensington is perfect for families and young professionals looking for the comforts of small-town living while only being half an hour from the city. While you are there, visit Blake Gardens, a beautiful park located in the Kensington hills. Kensington also offers a mix of architectural styles, including Tudor, Mediterranean, and Contemporary.   

Check here to see when Blake Gardens is open – https://blakegarden.ced.berkeley.edu/hours_visitor_information 
 

PIEDMONT
 

* School ranking takes into account the grades of all the public schools of the district(s) that serve an area and weighs each school’s score by the number of students the school serves. 

Only half an hour from downtown San Francisco and rated as one of the best places to live in California, Piedmont is the quintessential suburb. The city has a small-town feel while offering big-time properties and award-winning schools. Piedmont is the only city to be surrounded by a single city, Oakland. In the age of social distancing, Piedmont Park offers the best location to do socially distanced picnics with loved ones. 

Check here to see when Piedmont Park is open – https://piedmont.ca.gov/services___departments/public_works/about_piedmont_s_parks  

EL CERRITO 

* School ranking takes into account the grades of all the public schools of the district(s) that serve an area and weighs each school’s score by the number of students the school serves. 

El Cerrito boasts an 80-acre tree-lined Hillside Park open space, as well as an additional 45 acres of parks, perfect for taking a nature break while working from home. The best part about the neighborhood is the ease of transportation. From El Cerrito del Norte Station, you can quickly get to Oakland and San Francisco.   

Check here to see the arrival and departer times from Del Norte and El Cerrito Plaza –  https://www.bart.gov/stations/deln 

FINAL THOUGHTS  

As a top producing agent with 20+ years of experience in the East Bay, I have helped hundreds of clients find their perfect place in the Greater San Francisco Bay area and the counties of Alameda and Contra Costa. My experience as a former appraiser allows me to help my clients understand the market. If you have any questions, I am here to be a resource for you.