$1,143,339Average Value$892Average Price per Sq Ft22Homes 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
Westin Means,
an experienced agent in this area.
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 27 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Albany, CA over the last 12 months is $1,250,000, up 13% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Perfectly located and filled with natural light, this charming Albany home offers warmth, flexibility, and a backyard you’ll love coming home to. Set in the heart of town, you’re just moments from parks, tennis courts, the pool, top-rated schools, shops, dining, and that coveted small-town vibe. Inside, the main level, through the entry to the spacious living room - high ceilings, a beautiful
Sunny, vibrant, and full of charm, this Mediterranean-style residence in the Albany flats offers timeless character and rare flexibility with a fully permitted detached ADU. Rich in color, lush gardens, and preserved original details, this home lives beautifully inside and out. The 1,493± sq ft main house, built in 1928, features 3 bedrooms, a separate study/sunroom, and 2 full baths. A graceful
Located along the San Pablo corridor with direct access to I-80 and AC Transit lines to UC Berkeley, 1213 San Pablo Ave offers a well-positioned 14-unit investment opportunity. The property consists entirely of 1BD units, providing a consistent and in-demand unit mix. The building is well maintained with dual pane windows throughout and select units already remodeled, creating a strong foundation
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
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
Wake up to morning light streaming through oversized windows, with the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Tam greeting you in the distance. Evenings unfold over skyline views and dinner parties in the window-wrapped dining area—an effortless blend of cozy and cosmopolitan. The updated kitchen, complete with brand-new appliances and sleek countertops, flows seamlessly into bright, open spaces designed
Perfectly located and filled with natural light, this charming Albany home offers warmth, flexibility, and a backyard you’ll love coming home to. Set in the heart of town, you’re just moments from parks, tennis courts, the pool, top-rated schools, shops, dining, and that coveted small-town vibe. Inside, the main level, through the entry to the spacious living room - high ceilings, a beautiful
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 waiting for
Rare side-by-side, townhome-style triplex in one of Albany’s most convenient locations, just steps from Solano Ave restaurants, shops, everyday conveniences, and the Albany Library. The property consists of three separate units: Unit 1 is 2BD/1BA, Unit 2 is 1BD/1BA, and Unit 3 is 1BD/1BA, offering excellent flexibility for an owner-occupant, multi-generational living, or house-hacking potential.
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.
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,
Sunny, vibrant, and full of charm, this Mediterranean-style residence in the Albany flats offers timeless character and rare flexibility with a fully permitted detached ADU. Rich in color, lush gardens, and preserved original details, this home lives beautifully inside and out. The 1,493± sq ft main house, built in 1928, features 3 bedrooms, a separate study/sunroom, and 2 full baths. A graceful
Welcome to your private oasis in the prestigious gated Bayside Commons community, where comfort, convenience, and lifestyle come together in the heart of Albany. This beautifully updated, light-filled with 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offers nearly 1,200 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, complete with a private balcony and an ideal split-bedroom layout for maximum privacy—perfect for
731 Gateview lives large at 2,548 sq ft! An Albany gem with a brand-new rooftop deck, delivering jaw-dropping panoramic views of San Francisco, the Bay, and both the Bay & Golden Gate Bridges! This rare, 4BD/2.5BA home offers space, light, and flexibility with generously sized rooms and a bright, inviting living area, perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Step outside to a refreshed,
Top-floor living at Casa de Solano - where light, privacy, and location come together. Ideally situated at the corner of Stannage and Solano Avenues, this bright 1-bedroom residence is filled with natural light, hardwood floors, and elevated outlooks, including views toward the Berkeley Hills. Set on the top floor of a classic walk-up building, the home offers a sense of privacy and quiet
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
The advertised rate of $3,819/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of May 26, 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 be
Berkeley/Albany Boarder nice sunny large two bedroom 1 bath up stair apt. unit hardwood floor refrigerator gas stove oven dishwasher wall heater washer dryer walk to UC Berkeley stuff /Students Village Best Albany school and UC Berkeley bus to campus build just finish City Albany earthquake apt. build up grade job near City police station very safe area to living interested person
Welcome to this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo nestled against the serene backdrop of Albany Hill. With peaceful views of mature trees and a layout designed for comfort, this home offers a rare blend of nature, convenience, and community. Both bathrooms have been recently remodeled with modern finishes, bringing a fresh and contemporary feel to the space. Before move-in, the
STUDIO ON THE HILLTOP RATED SCHOOL DISTRICT IN THE AREA,WALKING DISTANCE TO EL CERRITO PLAZA,BART,99 RANCH,EASY ACCESS TO FREEWAY, COSTCO,ONE YEAR LEASE , GOOD CREDIT NO EVICTION,Ph #51O 5 2 8 2762
2 Rooms Available in Quiet El Cerrito 3BR 4 Blocks to BART / PlazaTHE SPACE:Seeking two quiet professional female residents to join a spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath upstairs apartment. You will be sharing the unit with one professional female tenant in a respectful, clean environment. HOUSEMATE: Teacher in her 30's, Bay Area native. Avid reader, does yoga, always listening to
2-bedroom, 2-bathroom (2 master bedrooms) Condominium in the desired Bridgewater community. This unit features hardwood floors, kitchen dining bar, gas fireplace, in-house laundry units, and community amenities. Secured Garage (2 spaces come with Unit), Storage, Fitness Facilities onsite, Pool/Hot-Tub.Keys/Building FOBs will be provided to tenants on move-in. Amenities include
$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
Great Kensington studio near Kensington Circle, Kensington Circus Pub, Farmer's Market, Semifreddis, Benchmark Pizzeria and also Berkeley/Solano Ave. Award-winning Kensington elementary school, small-town feel; not far from shopping, hiking trails, Tilden Park, UC Berkeley, downtown Oakland, San Francisco and BART.1 Bed1 BathSpacious living room/dining roomHardwood
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