$1,159,919Average Value$868Average Price per Sq Ft25Homes For Sale
Desirable Bay Area city with unusual origins
Home to a little more than 20,000 people, suburban Albany is a sought-after bayfront city that harbors a remarkable history. At the start of the 20th century, this area – then known as Ocean View – was used by the city of Berkeley as a massive dumping ground for excess garbage. Fed up with their community being treated like a landfill, the women of Ocean View armed themselves and confronted inbound Berkeley trash wagons, kickstarting a series of conflicts known as the “Garbage Wars.” In September 1908, locals were finally able to incorporate Ocean View as a city and passed legislation to prevent further dumping. Soon after its incorporation, the city was renamed Albany, and the community spent the following decades focused on revitalizing the land. Today, Albany is a vibrant Bay Area enclave with walkable shopping districts, scenic parks and highly rated schools. “The area is so desirable,” says Allen Cain, executive director of the local Solano Avenue Association. "It’s not just the schools and the businesses and the great yogurt places; it’s about the public safety. The streets are well-lit, and your kids can walk home from school alone."
Jogging is a common morning routine in Albany parks.
Dog-lovers end their day at Albany Beach.
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Homes with character and million-dollar price tags
Albany spans less than 2 square miles, so its residential streets are lined with densely packed homes exhibiting eclectic Craftsman-style and Mediterranean motifs. Lawn space is minimal, and although many homes have short driveways, residents also take advantage of the city’s free street parking. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are present on many properties; they’re becoming increasingly popular as homebuyers seek more affordable housing options. The median price of a home here is approximately $1.2 million; listings spend an average of 35 days on the market before being sold. Albany’s high housing costs are primarily attributed to the city’s public school system and East Bay location next to Berkeley.
Cherished memories built in this cozy Albany family home.
Albany is full of architectural houses and landscaping.
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A's all-around at Albany City Unified School District
The Albany City Unified School District is one of the town’s biggest draws. The district receives an overall A rating from Niche and includes three elementary schools, one middle and one high school. Families can also send younger children to Albany Children’s Center, the district’s preschool; all Albany City schools earn ratings of A or higher. At the A-plus-rated Albany High, students can take applied arts courses in partnership with the Contra Costa County Region Occupation Program.
Albany is also home to the University Village neighborhood, an off-campus residential community maintained by the University of California, Berkeley. The university’s main campus is situated in downtown Berkeley, only 3 miles from Albany. Part of the UC system, this research university is consistently recognized as one of the nation’s top public universities. Between 2023 and 2025, UC Berkeley was ranked the No. 1 public university in America by U.S. News & World Report, the Wall Street Journal, Forbes and the Center for World University Rankings.
Shaping futures at Albany High School.
Educational cornerstone Marin Elementary in Albany.
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Albany Bulb is a waterfront wonder
Albany has a total of 16 city parks with recreational amenities like athletic facilities, picnic areas, walking trails and playgrounds. What was once the community’s primary landfill site in the early 1900s has since been transformed into the Albany Bulb, a waterfront park and natural area spanning over 80 acres. Urban trailways in the area include a hiking trail at Albany Hill Park lined with towering eucalyptus trees and the Ohlone Greenway, a pedestrian walkway stretching from El Cerrito to Berkeley. Farther inland is the Tilden Regional Park, a well-known hiking destination with a 2,000-acre landscape including a botanical garden, golf course and a swimming lake. The city’s recreation department, public library and cable station are all in the Albany Community Center, which also offers event venues. Albany has a moderate Mediterranean climate, meaning residents can enjoy year-round outdoor recreation.
Joyful beach day with dogs at Albany Beach.
Get an adrenaline rush from high-speed cycling in Albany.
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Events, eateries and entertainment along Solano Avenue
Albany’s cardinal shopping destination is Solano Avenue, a bustling east-west street packed with small businesses, boutiques and local eateries. This principal corridor also hosts a jam-packed calendar of events organized by the Solano Avenue Association; one of the largest events is the annual Solano Avenue Stroll, a massive street festival that began in the 1970s. “It’s this huge kind of community event, and it wouldn’t be a community event without the community. Whoever you are, however much you make, you can come here and listen to bands, meet nonprofits and try new food, all for free,” Cain says. “Last year, it was over 100,000 people.” Additional shopping and dining options in Albany are located along San Pablo Avenue, a local thoroughfare with heavy motor vehicle traffic. Aside from Target and a couple of grocery stores, the closest big box retailers and national chains are in next-door Berkeley.
Come into Zaytoon and for a bite to eat or even a nice glass of wine.
Enjoy fine food and drinks at Zaytoon restaurant.
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Albany caters to commuters and pedestrians
Albany’s small size allows for pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, including a city-wide network of biking paths and an abundance of sidewalks. Ohlone Greenway is a paved, pedestrian-only walkway through the middle of the city, passing by shopping areas, parks and community centers. Commuters can rely on local buses operated by the Alameda Contra-Costa Transit District, which connects with nearby BART stations in Berkeley and El Cerrito. Interstates 580 and 80 run through western Albany along the waterfront and connect to major cities like Oakland, 8 miles away. However, despite the short distance to places like Oakland, interstate traffic often causes longer driving times. Oakland International Airport is approximately 16 miles from Albany and has direct flights to dozens of cities in the United States.
Written By
Hayley Simms
Photography Contributed By
Jean Paul Toshiro
Video By
Tyler Belile
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Albany, CA sell after 29 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Albany, CA over the last 12 months is $1,275,000, up 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Quiet and well-proportioned 2-bed 2-bath unit conveniently located in the tranquil park-facing rear of the condo complex, on the ground floor near the building entrance -- ideal for easy access when moving or carrying groceries. Chef-ready kitchen boasts new paint and flooring, ample storage and counter space, as well as a new stove and refrigerator. Two bedrooms, each with generous closet space
Welcome to Unit 3109 at Bayside Commons — a thoughtfully upgraded and truly turn-key residence in one of Albany’s most amenity-rich condo communities. With tasteful renovations, quality materials, and a comfortable first-floor layout, this home stands out above the crowd with its blend of modern style and everyday functionality. Step inside to a bright and airy interior featuring premium
This is a top floor corner unit fully remodled throughout with beautiful hill views. Mohawk Luxury Vinyl Planks throughout. Freshly painted with all New Appliances. The master Bedroom features a walk-in shower. The Master Bedroom aslo features a walk-in closet. The unit is south east oriented with sunlight throughout the day.Very Large balcony perfect for that summer BBQ. The complex has numerous
Great location 764 Pierce St Albany 4 plex building is approx 2820 sq ft with a 5000 sq ft lot. The property features Two ( 2 ) One bedrooms and Two (2) bedrooms units. Each unit has own laundry rooms with hook ups. Tenants each have a parking space in the driveway It has a 2 car garage and large basement, which isn't used by tenants. Featured a shared Back yard which has side yard access with
Bright and spacious plan A unit. Beautifully remodeled a few years ago and Ready for move-in. Large Primary BR w/ , large walk in closet and en suite bath; second BR w/ wall-to-wall closets with access to Balcony. Chef-ready kitchen boasts ample storage and counter space w/ full pantry and newer dishwasher. Enjoy the welcoming fireplace and summer evenings on the large outdoor balcony featuring
Calling all builders and developers!!!! Approved plans for 3 unit townhouse community in Berkeley!!! Stunning architecturally significant design featuring rooftop loggias, three bedrooms, 2 baths and is prepped to convert the garage areas to an ADU. Creative floorplans offer a Lot of space to spread out and create both a home and a home office if desired. Bring your builder and make these
A House This Big Has A Lot Of Possible Uses ... Multi-Generation Housing for a very large family ... Battered Women’s Emergency Shelter ... Clean-and-Sober House ... Single Moms Commune ... Disabled Veteran’s Housing ... “Launch Pad” & Supportive Housing for Refugees or Recent Immigrants ... Incubator for Tech Businesses ... Teacher’s Village ... Artist’s Retreat ... LGBT Housing ... Youth Hostel
NEW PRICE! Welcome home to your amazing new views of the Bridges and the Bay! This beautifully upgraded 1bed/1bath located on the 5th floor has an amazing flow with the added French doors to the bedroom off the living room which creates an openness and flexibility that you don't find in other units. This one is a rare gem with open flow, granite counters, kitchen island, and a fabulous balcony
Home is located In the quaint Albany community with permitted 1654 sf 4 bedrooms 2 baths remodeled home with new bolted foundation, sheared walled, breaker panel, flooring, and roof. Nice size game room & laundry room. Huge backyard with 2 bonus rooms of extra 193 sf for mini office, workshop, or sewing room. Lots of storage spaces in 2 attics and 2 crawl spaces. A few items still remain for TLC:
Rare top-floor 1 bedroom, 1 bath condo perfectly located in the heart of coveted Albany. Steps from El Cerrito Plaza, BART, Trader Joe's, buses, restaurants, and few mins to Pacific East Mall, Costco, Sprouts, Targets, and top-rated Albany Schools (K-12). Truly walker's and Biker's Paradise! 2 secured garage parking spaces plus bonus storage space. 10 minutes drive to UC Berkeley.
Situated in the Albany Hill neighborhood, this newly renovated residence boasts an exceptional 96 Walk Score. Tucked just off Solano Ave, enjoy effortless access to Albany’s vibrant shops and eateries. The thoughtfully designed floor plan includes a two-bedroom, two-bathroom main residence (approx. 1,120 sqft)complemented by a versatile ADU (accessory dwelling unit) providing incredible
Rare corner 2BD/2BA at Gateview with panoramic Bay views and Golden Gate Bridge vistas from nearly every room. This sought-after extended living room layout offers bright single-level living, an open kitchen with island, updated baths, laminate floors, and an extra window in the primary suite that fills the space with natural light. Secure elevator building with garage parking, guest parking,
CONTACT THE LEASING OFFICE TO SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR TODAY! Demand is HighMetro 510 is a sophisticated community near BART and located in the middle of El Cerrito Plaza. Walk outside your door and find dozens of brand name stores, delicious restaurants, and a Trader Joe’s! Just a short drive away from Oakland, San Francisco, and Berkeley, our apartments in Oakland are perfect for students and
Property Id: 2592430Immaculate renovated 2 bed 2 bathroom condominium is available in highly desired city of Albany located next to Ranch 99 and highway 80 with walking distance to E Cerrito Bart station and shopping plaza. Many amenties including heated pool, hot tub, sauna, gym, Tennis and Basketball courts, picnic area are just a few included in the rent. All utilities exept
Property Id: 2602185This spectacular views unit will not stay vacant for long. Second floor unit in conveniently located for easy commute and shopping in highly desired school district in Albany. Recently remodeled with newer appliances, granite kitchen counter, need to see Bay and city views plus walking distance to Bart, El Cerrito Plaza and next to Ranch 99 and Pacific Plaza shopping
The advertised rate of $3,735/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of December 12, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can
Discover an ideal living space for early-career professionals or Berkeley students in this charming 2-bedroom (with a bonus room), 1-bathroom unit. Conveniently located for easy commutes to San Francisco and Berkeley, the property offers a perfect balance of comfort and accessibility.The unit features spacious, well-lit rooms with modern finishes and brand-new amenities throughout. Enjoy
$1,595 per month
Comfortable one bedroom unit, convenient location to shopping and transportation
1 bedroom apartment located on San Pablo Avenue. One year lease minimum. Walking distance to Sprouts, Whole Foods, Peets Coffee, Habit Burger, Tokyo Fish Market, restaurants, and to UC Berkeley bus line (across the street). Walk score is 88, and a bike score of 96!! Very convenient location, close to Solano Street restaurant and shops, close to freeway ramp to SF and North Berkeley BART
$8,800 per month
Fully Furnished Completely Renovated Home in Albany off of Solano Ave.
This stunning and impeccable fully furnished renovated Albany bungalow features 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms spanning over 1,380 sqft of living space with an open floor plan, hardwood floors throughout, and abundant natural light. The home features a spacious living room with built-in bookshelves and media center, an updated gourmet modern kitchen with sleek light wood cabinetry, white quartz
$1,695 per month
Comfortable one bedroom unit, convenient location to shopping and transportation
1 bedroom apartment located on San Pablo Avenue. One year lease minimum. Walking distance to Sprouts, Whole Foods, Peets Coffee, Habit Burger, Tokyo Fish Market, restaurants, and to UC Berkeley bus line (across the street). Walk score is 88, and a bike score of 96!! Very convenient location, close to Solano Street restaurant and shops, close to freeway ramp to SF and North Berkeley BART
Charming Condo for Rent in AlbanyLocated in the highly sought-after Albany City Unified School District, this beautifully updated 1,237-square-foot condominium offers a comfortable and convenient lifestyle. The home features two spacious master suites, each with its own private full bathroom, a bright living room with a wood-burning/gas fireplace, a separate dining area, and an updated
Please text or call Yolanda to view this property @ [Five-One-Zero] [Six-Nine-Seven] [Two-Zero-Nine-Five]Take a 3D virtual tour here: All inclusive rent, there are no utility concerns— PG&E, water, sewer, and garbage services. The unit has been beautifully remodeled with a modern and sophisticated design, featuring upgrades from floor to ceiling, including lighting fixtures,
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