Exploring the Best Neighborhoods in Oakland

Exploring the Best Neighborhoods in Oakland Featured Image

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The quality of a city’s residential neighborhood is a significant factor in deciding where to settle down, and Oakland is home to some of the sought-after communities in California.

The areas’ vitality and diversity are undeniably among the city’s most significant selling points.

The local neighborhoods of Oakland are an ideal place to explore, especially if you are planning to move to California. The city offers a high quality of life, supplied by top-notch schools, family-friendly amenities, and attractive housing options.

In this article, we’ll show you around all the best neighborhoods in Oakland, CA, and provide some helpful information that makes up the city’s dynamic character.

Best Oakland Neighborhoods

Best Oakland Neighborhoods

Photo by Matt Donders on Unsplash

Several Oakland, CA’s neighborhoods are recognized as among the best in the state. We have made an in-depth guide below to help you narrow your options. The table below aims to show you a quick overview of the best neighborhoods in Oakland, CA.

NeighborhoodTypical Home PricesGreat ForNeighborhood Features
Maxwell Park$600,000 to $900,000Families Young Professionals
  • Beautiful suburban area with lush landscapes
  • Peaceful and welcoming community
  • High homeownership rates
  • Unique mosaic tile trash can concept
  • Well-maintained roadways and aesthetic appeal
  • Typically pleasant weather
  • Convenient streetcar transportation
  • Strong sense of community
Shepherd Canyon$890,000 to $1,560,000Young Professionals
  • Perfect blend of city and suburban lifestyle
  • Panoramic views of Lake Merritt
  • Convenient location close to the San Francisco Bay Area, Montclair Wooded Ridge and Montclair Railroad Trail.
  • Plenty of nearby restaurants, cafes, shops, and schools
  • Close to public transportation options like AC Transit buses, ferries, trains, airports, and Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)
  • Culturally diverse with access to many art, music, and food options
Cleveland Heights$450,000 to $5.7 millionFamilies Young Professionals Retirees
  • Calm setting on the shores of Lake Merritt
  • Access to various establishments and amenities, such as grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants
  • Known as "China Hill" because of its large Chinese population.
  • Lake Merritt Offers a beautiful scenery and a calm environment
  • Close to family-friendly playgrounds
  • Dog-friendly community
Adams Point$425,000 to $2 millionFamilies Retirees
Redwood Heights$350,000 to $3.1 millionFamilies
  • Residential area with a predominantly middle class and cultural backgrounds
  • Wide options for fun and relaxation nearby
  • Homes with unique, cultural character
  • High-value homes with excellent investment potential
  • The Redwood Heights Recreation Center offers a variety of activities for people of all ages.
Trestle Glen$425,000 to $3.12 millionFamilies Young Professionals
  • Upscale community with curvilinear layout
  • Excellent nearby schools and commercial districts
  • Easy access to the MacArthur Freeway and other major highways
  • Easy access to Oakland's bustling downtown
  • Visually-appealing landscaping with paved walking trails throughout the neighborhood
  • High quality homes with stunning curb appeal
Ivy Hill$365,000 to $5.85 millionFamilies Young Professionals
  • Compact community with multiple housing types available, including single-family homes, townhouses, apartment buildings, and vacant lands
  • Refurbished residences
  • Located in a serene area with pleasant weather
  • Easy access to establishments such as supermarkets, restaurants, laundromats, and boutiques
  • Close to Park Boulevard Plaza and FM Smith Park
Millsmont$500,000 to $1.05 millionFamilies Young Professionals
  • Charming village with breathtaking views
  • Strong sense of community.
  • Access to nearby dining, shopping, and recreation
  • Various Homeowner Events to participate in including Movie Nights and the Annual National Night Out
  • Availability of stellar schools nearby
  • Interstate 580 and other major freeways are easily accessible.
  • Relaxing ambience supplied by mature trees and green spaces
Lakeshore$759,000 to $2.50 millionFamilies Young Professionals Luxury Homes
  • Tranquil neighborhood with scenic view of Lake Merritt
  • Located conveniently close to many dining, educational facilities and Interstate 580
  • Residential properties with outstanding amenities
  • Stunning neighborhood design and walkability
  • Numerous family friendly parks and recreational facilities
Longfellow$849,000 to $1.2 millionFamilies Retirees Young Professionals
  • Small-town atmosphere
  • Located close to Route 24 and Interstate 580
  • Convenient transportation around Oakland and the surrounding areas
  • Location close to shops and other businesses
  • Situated near multiple schools, making it convenient for families with school-aged children
  • Numerous restaurants accessible at the Telegraph Avenue
Pill Hill$420,000 to $9 millionFamilies Retired Veterans
Bushrod$929,000 to $2 millionFamilies Young Professionals
  • Welcoming and friendly locality
  • Located near many businesses with various employment opportunities
  • Few minutes away from Bushrod Park, featuring baseball fields, soccer fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts.
  • Pet-friendly environment
  • High quality residences with profitable investment potential
Fairview Park$300,000 to $2.99 millionFamilies Young Professionals
  • Prosperous new residential development
  • Proximity to shops like laundromats, restaurants, and pet supply stores.
  • Homes designed in Craftsman style, known for their authenticity and attention to detail
  • Proximity to a number of major thoroughfares and public transportation options such as AC Transit buses, Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)
  • Large residences with spacious rooms
Glenview$949,000 to $ 1.71 millionFamilies Retirees
  • Beautiful neighborhood with serene Rockridge appeal
  • Extensive green spaces
  • Close to Dimond Park and Sausal Creek
  • Pathways through the forest that lead to Hilltop Park
  • Gorgeous homes with stunning interior and finishing touches
  • Moderate sized houses with sufficient living space
  • Features cozy fireplaces, spacious dining rooms, outdoor kitchens, and garages
  • Gated community
Lincoln Highlands$498,500 to $5.26 millionFamilies
  • Tranquil environment with first-rate amenities
  • Pleasant climate and accessible location
  • Quick and simple access to nearby shopping and dining
  • Numerous housing choices, like single-family, multi-family, townhouse, and condominium complexes, as well as vacant lots
  • Diverse architectural styles such as Contemporary, Cottage, Ranch, Mid-Century Modern, Farm House, Cabin, High-Tech, Rustic, Brown Shingle, and Tudor
  • Emanates an ideal harmony between a beautiful community and a pleasant atmosphere.
Upper Rockridge$128,000 to $689,000Families
  • Well-established neighborhood with lovely homes
  • Concrete walkways and stunning houses lining the streets
  • Peaceful and calm ambience
  • Luxury mansions to choose from
  • High quality residences
  • Visually-pleasing curb appeal
  • Excellent nearby schools are easily accessible
Forestland$795,000 to $998,000Families Retirees
  • Located amidst the mountains, boasting breathtaking scenery and green spaces
  • Serene area with panoramic landscapes
  • Luxurious houses with state-of-the-art features
  • Open floor plans and bespoke fittings
  • Close to trails for hiking and beautiful scenery around.
  • Location close to the heart of Oakland
  • Stellar educational opportunities within easy reach
Merriewood$190,000 to $3,850,000Families Young Professionals
  • A few minutes away from other major cities
  • Access to various stores, and dining establishments
  • Close proximity to stellar schools, parks, trails, museums, and other pet friendly facilities
  • Numerous festivals, celebrations, and cultural events happening around the area
  • With easy access to healthcare facilities and medical services
Shafter$1,200,000 to $1,700,000Young Professionals
  • Easy access to city amenities, Temescal Farmers Market, transportation options, airports, and train stations
  • Pet-friendly community
Oakmore$680,000 to $1,800,000Families Retirees
  • Multiethnic and affluent neighborhood
  • Artistic environment
  • Many different attractions and recreational options nearby including restaurants, parks, hiking trails, and museums.
Sequoyah$500,000 to $1.7 millionFamilies Young Professionals
  • Diverse population
  • Scenic landscapes surrounded by trees and mountains
  • Dog-friendly community
  • Located near major highways and the city center
Oakland Condos$330,000 to $2.45 millionYoung Professionals
  • Modern neighborhood design
  • Quick and easy access to different cultural facilities and commercial establishments

10 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Neighborhood

10 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Neighborhood

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There are several considerations to look at before finally deciding to settle down in a particular place.

While your ideal neighborhood may differ depending on your preferences and interests, there are several things you should think about, which we will run through below:

1. Location of the Neighborhood

Location is critical, so consider how close the area is to your place of employment, your children’s schools, and other commercial establishments. Check out if it is close to main thoroughfares and public transit hubs.

Remember that picking a suitable area is crucial to making your home a relaxing and enjoyable place to stay.

2. Security and Safety

Look at the local crime statistics and other safety information. The ability to go about your day, whether walking or driving, without feeling unsafe must be a significant factor on your list of priorities.

3. Amenities

Check the neighborhood’s proximity to essential establishments like grocery shops, restaurants, parks, fitness centers, and entertainment venues. Having convenient access to basic amenities may significantly improve daily living.

4. Local Institutions

The quality of the local schools is an important consideration whether you currently have or intend to have children. Take the time to read up on local schools’ reputations and ratings.

5. Cost of Living

Examine what it would take to maintain the same standard of life in the area. Everything from mortgage payments or rent to utility bills and fees for community services are included here.

6. Community

Get a feel for the community by seeing the area at various times of day. How hospitable are the locals? Is it a close-knit group of people? Is it compatible with how you now live?

7. Transportation

In terms of transportation, you should look at how accessible and affordable the public choices are. It may be crucial if you often utilize public transportation, such as a bus, train, or light rails.

8. Personal Preferences

Think about what you value most in a place, whether it’s a bustling nightlife, a quiet setting, easy access to the ocean, or something else entirely.

9. Green Spaces

Parks, trails, and various green spaces in the area may significantly impact your quality of life. Living in a community with plenty of parks and other green areas makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors.

10. Future of the Neighborhood

Research the neighborhood’s long-term goals and zoning laws as part of your preparations for the future. Doing so will help you envision the place as it develops over time.

Exploring the Best Neighborhoods in Oakland

Wrap Up

As we wrap up our tour of Oakland’s best neighborhoods, it becomes apparent that the city is one of the great cities in California to settle down.

Remember the most essential features as you go on the thrilling quest to choose your perfect Oakland neighborhood.

Your final pick will be influenced by various factors, whether that be convenience to places of employment and education, the attraction of nearby services and restaurants, safety and tranquility, or the aesthetic appeal of the houses themselves.

If you want to explore your housing options in Oakland, CA, please do not hesitate to contact us by giving us a call at (510) 746-8240 or send a message via gk@grahamking.com to get started. You can also message us through one of our social media channels below:

Frequently Asked Questions

Redwood Heights and Glenview are two of Oakland’s most secure communities. These areas are praised for their low crime rates, tight-knit communities, and immaculate upkeep.

Both communities often have neighborhood watch programs and strong community involvement. Remember that the level of safety varies from block to block, so it’s essential to do your homework before deciding which Oakland neighborhood is best for you.

Shepherd Canyon and Shafter are two neighborhoods that should not be ignored while searching for the ideal neighborhood for young professionals wanting a busy nightlife. These dynamic neighborhoods are perfect for individuals who wish to be near the city’s action while still experiencing a thriving social scene.

There are a few exceptional choices when identifying the best neighborhoods in the Oakland area with excellent schools. Cleveland Heights, Longfellow, and Upper Rockridge are just a few of these neighborhoods that have been lauded for their welcoming atmosphere and high quality of life.

These areas’ public and private schools are well regarded, giving local families several options for their children’s education.

Sequoyah and Oakmore are renowned for their colorful blend of cultures, ethnic cuisines, festivals, and creative manifestations. So, they are good selections for those looking for an environment rich in cultural diversity.

Oakland has an extensive and convenient public transit network that allows residents and tourists to move around the city quickly.

Overall, Oakland’s public transportation system provides a wide variety of alternatives, allowing locals and tourists to get to the city with relative ease.

You may use Oakland’s public transit system for all your travel requirements, including getting to and from work, visiting the city’s neighborhoods, and getting to and from recreational spots.