Better Known as the Home to Uc Berkeley, One of the Country's Most Celebrated and Historic Universities, the City of Berkeley Also Claims a Hot Housing Market Worth Your Investment Dollars.
Berkeley, California, has long stood as a bastion for educational and social change. Situated to the east across the bay from San Francisco and to the immediate north of Oakland, it's a hotspot for student-led demonstrations and breakthroughs in research while feeding some of the Bay Area's most prominent companies with new talent.
In recent years, however, the area's real estate has blossomed. While Berkeley has long been a highly desirable place to live, sandwiched between San Francisco Bay and the San Pablo Ridge, more and more individuals are flocking to the city, not as a place to study, but as a place to live.
They appreciate its college town vibe, socially progressive views, and proximity to both the Bay Area's urban cores and its more rustic outdoor escapes. It also possesses some of the region's most distinctive communities to call home.
So, let's look beyond the city and explore the best Berkeley neighborhoods to invest in.
Claremont
Tucked into the city of Berkeley's southeastern corner, Claremont is one of Berkeley's most historic neighborhoods. Known and named for the stunning architectural gem Claremont Club & Spa, A Fairmont Hotel, the community offers its residents one of the Bay Area's most unique environments.
Although early development dates back to the 1850s, Claremont grew out of the aftermath of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Families moved east after the devastation, with many of them finding refuge in Berkeley and neighboring Oakland (Claremont straddles the boundary of both). Modern-day Claremont is a family-friendly area in the city.
Much like its namesake hotel, distinctive residential architecture is the rule across Claremont's gorgeous tree-lined streets. In addition to its one-of-a-kind homes, the neighborhood's location is difficult to top. UC Berkeley is a brief 10-minute drive away; San Francisco, Oakland, and several beautiful outdoor areas are also easily accessible.
Claremont Hills
Much like its sibling to the west, Claremont Hills straddles the boundary of Berkeley and Oakland. Unlike its neighbor, Claremont Hills offers less development and a more natural setting. To the north is the Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve, and to the west is the Siesta Valley Recreation Area.
In between, residences follow a contemporary, upscale aesthetic. Many are built into the area's numerous hillsides, the most spectacular of which tuck into the expansive green canopy and offer stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Should you so choose, a hillside walk will lead you to the Claremont Hotel, College Avenue, and UC Berkeley.
Although Claremont Hills is Berkeley's easternmost neighborhood, its location gives equal billing to adventurers and commuters alike. There's direct access to State Highway 24, immediately west of the Caldecott Tunnel, which puts residents minutes away from Contra Costa County and only a 30-minute drive into San Francisco.
Elmwood
Another of Berkeley's communities that boomed after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake is Elmwood, which offers one of the city's sleepier lifestyles. Arts and Crafts and Colonial Revival-style homes are prevalent.
Although primarily residential, Elmwood centers around a quaint commercial district that includes an eclectic mix of restaurants and local retail specialty stores. There's also the decidedly retro and nostalgic Elmwood Cinema. Arguably one of Elmwood’s most underappreciated aspects is the neighborhood's walkability. Regardless of where you live, Elmwood's commercial district is a short walk away.
Beyond its community borders, popular destinations are reachable on foot. Downtown, UC Berkeley, and Telegraph Avenue's commercial district are all a mile from your front door. Due to its residential bliss yet close-to-it-all location, Elmwood draws young professionals, especially those looking to rent.
North Berkeley
Aside from being one of the country's most liberal communities, the city of Berkeley is also one of its most dynamic. The neighborhood of North Berkeley, literally and figuratively the city’s heart typifies all that is great about the area.
Situated immediately north of downtown, the predominantly residential North Berkeley is the city's most sought-after neighborhood. The mix of housing is a huge draw for young professionals. Single and multi-family units provide the community with a lively vibe that feeds into several of the city's vibrant commercial districts.
You can walk into the neighboring downtown district in less than ten minutes, including a BART station. The UC Berkeley campus is five minutes further to the southeast. North Berkeley's commercial area spans Shattuck Avenue and features several restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Ready to explore the best of Berkeley real estate?
Contact Julie Nachtwey today to start your home buying journey. From Claremont real estate to North Berkeley homes for sale, allow Julie and her team's years of experience and expertise to be your guide to the Alameda County luxury real estate market.
