$1,186,561Average Value$740Average Price per Sq Ft26Homes For Sale
El Cerrito offers lower costs with access to all of the Bay Area
Meaning “Little Hill” in Spanish, El Cerrito is a fitting name for this Bay Area city that butts up against the San Pablo Ridge. The city of around 24,000 people started as a refuge for San Francisco residents after the 1906 earthquake and fire. In the over 100 years since, El Cerrito has grown into a Bay Area suburb known for lower housing costs and outdoor activity. “I guess the top of the list would be affordability,” says Jeff Weissman, a Realtor with Compass who has sold multiple homes here. “The El Cerrito Hills homes have wonderful views and are also close to open space just a bit east. There’s hiking, mountain biking, trail running, dog walking and those sorts of things.” While locals can spend their free time exploring the hills and parks, another main draw to El Cerrito is its proximity to other Bay Area cities. The average commute is about 30 minutes, typically to places like Oakland or San Francisco. With its location near Silicon Valley, tech is one of the largest employment sectors, although healthcare and education also make up a large chunk. Residents can easily commute throughout the region thanks to two nearby rapid transit stations and Interstate 80.
El Cerrito’s suburban neighborhoods balance access to urban amenities and the great outdoors.
You can amazing views from Hillside Natural Area.
El Cerrito is a beautiful town against the San Pablo Ridge and close proximity to Oakland or San Francisco.
With its location near Silicon Valley, tech is one of the largest employment sectors in El cerrito.
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Wildcat Canyon and Hillside Natural Area for recreation
El Cerrito has 16 parks covering 175 acres, including natural areas and developed parks. Hillside Natural Area is one of the highlights, with plenty of trails and open space for residents to explore. This green space contains native plants, oak trees and riparian environments. There are many more hiking trails in Wildcat Canyon Regional Park just east of the city. This expansive area covers nearly 2,800 acres and has a trailhead on Rifle Range Road. Other access points are at Tilden Nature Area in Berkeley or Alvarado Park in Richmond. Cerrito Vista Park is one of the largest developed green spaces in the city, with tennis courts, a baseball field and a soccer field, as well as picnic areas and a walking trail. It’s also the site of the annual 4th of July Festival, which includes live music, rides and food. The Berkeley Country Club is a private par-72 course in El Cerrito with a dining room and fitness center. The Hana Gardens Senior Center hosts several community events each year, like the winter Maker’s Faire with live music, treats and vendors.
Cerrito Vista Park is the perfect place to play soccer in El Cerrito.
Enjoy a brisk morning walk at Hillside Natural Area.
Wildcat Canyon Regional Park is a popular destination for local residents.
El Cerrito has excellent walking trails near the Memorial Grove.
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Midcentury-era homes throughout each El Cerrito neighborhood
Homes in El Cerrito are primarily from the middle of the 20th century and include cottages, bungalows, Craftsmans and Mediterranean styles. “It’s a great place to live, with its tree-lined streets,” says Jimmy Reina, a Realtor with Red Oak Realty who has sold several homes in the city. “The houses are mostly from the post-war period, and they get a little fancier as you go up into the hills.” The homes on the city’s hilly east side frequently have scenic views of San Francisco Bay or Golden Gate Bridge. The median cost of housing in El Cerrito is $1,175,000 and has not changed over the past year. That price is lower than nearby cities like San Francisco and Berkeley but higher than Oakland. Homes typically sell in 18 days, much faster than the national average of 44. “Inventory is still on the low side. Move-in ready homes sell for over asking with multiple offers, but opportunities are a little scarcer,” says Weissman.
El Cerrito has several newer homes getting built in the area, and many have million-dollar views.
20th-century bungalows are the most common home style in the flat part of El Cerrito.
El Cerrito homes enjoy amazing views while nestled close to each other on narrow streets.
The sloping, curvilinear streets in the hills are lined with single family homes in El Cerrito.
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Shopping and dining along San Pablo Avenue
San Pablo Avenue is the main commercial strip in the city, with a mix of chain stores and local restaurants. Los Moles Beer Garden serves authentic Mexican food and is known for its buffet with various mole options. New Dumpling is a small Chinese restaurant serving a menu of extensive dumpling options. Other businesses along San Pablo Avenue include local hardware stores, record shops and grocery stores like El Cerrito Natural Grocery Company. El Cerrito Plaza is a large shopping center with chain stores like Ross, Marshalls, Barnes & Noble and Trader Joe’s. The center also has a mix of chain restaurants ranging from coffee shops to seafood.
El Cerrito Plaza is a central shopping area for everyone in El Cerrito.
El Cerrito Natural Grocery is on San Pablo Ave and is in the middle of shopping for locals.
Les Moles Beer Garden has fresh, local ingredients for their dishes for El Cerrito residents.
Most locals in El Cerrito shop for groceries in the Lucky store.
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West Contra Costa Unified School District serves El Cerrito students
West Contra Costa Unified School District serves the city and receives a B-minus rating from Niche. The district has been around since 1965 and has nearly 26,000 students. It offers AP courses and college and career readiness resources. El Cerrito High School is in the city and has programs like an Information Technology Academy and a Media Academy. The school is also known for its award-winning band program.
El Cerrito High School is in the city and has programs like an Information Technology Academy and a Media Academy.
Educational opportunities abound at Madera Elementary School.
A view of the Fairmont Elementary School from the street.
Students are the highest priority at Invictus Academy of Richmond.
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I-580, I-80 and BART provide transportation options
Interstate 80 also passes through the city, leading north across the Bay to Vallejo or south into San Francisco. Nearby Interstate 580 provides a highway west across the Bay to San Rafael. Two Bay Area Rapid Transit stations in El Cerrito offer public transportation throughout the region. These stations are on the Orange and Red Lines, taking riders into San Francisco, Oakland or San Jose. AC Transit operates multiple bus routes in the area, connecting various points in the city and to nearby communities. San Francisco International Airport is about 25 miles away, while the closest hospital is Kaiser Permanente Richmond Medical Center, about 4.5 miles away.
Interstate 80 also passes through El Cerrito, leading north across the Bay to Vallejo or south into San Francisco.
The El Cerrito BART offers great commute options for residents of the Richmond Annex.
San Francisco International Airport is about 25 miles away from El cerrito.
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Crime rates in El Cerrito
According to data from the El Cerrito Police Department, violent crime increased by 5% in 2023, while property crime decreased by 5%. Both types of crime have been down since 2019, which saw the highest crime in the past five years. Data from the FBI shows that the city’s violent crime rate is lower than the statewide and national averages, while the property crime rate is higher.
Risks of wildfire and earthquakes in El Cerrito
Due to its location near wilderness areas and the Hayward Fault, El Cerrito faces risks like wildfires, extreme heat and seismic activity. The city has a section of its general plan known as the Safety Element, which outlines policies and goals for addressing these hazards. It also has a brochure on its website covering wildfire preparedness and evacuations. Residents can sign up to receive alerts through the Contra Costa County Community Warning System.
Written By
Matthew Atkins
Photography Contributed By
Marcell Puzsar
Video By
Victoria York
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
John Altstatt,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in El Cerrito, CA sell after 21 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in El Cerrito, CA over the last 12 months is $1,200,000, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
6606 Hagen Blvd is a 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom home in the El Cerrito Hills with over 2,530 square feet of living space. The lower level includes an in-law suite with a separate entrance; buyer to verify permitted uses. The kitchen is open to the main living area, with stainless steel appliances, a peninsula with seating, and a custom range hood. The primary bathroom has been updated with a double
Perched above the Berkeley Country Club with breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge, this exceptional newer-construction residence offers the perfect blend of elegance, privacy, and convenience. Built in 2008 and located on a quiet private road, the home features 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths, and 3 half baths across a thoughtfully designed floor plan. The main level is
Welcome to 551 Richmond Street, a Craftsman bungalow that delivers the character you've been dreaming about in a location you'll never want to leave. Stroll a few blocks to El Cerrito Plaza, sip and savor at Banter, dine at Juanita & Maude’s, catch a film at the historic Cerrito Theater, and soak up everything this beloved neighborhood has to offer. With El Cerrito Plaza BART, quick freeway
6606 Hagen Blvd is a 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom home in the El Cerrito Hills with over 2,530 square feet of living space. The lower level includes an in-law suite with a separate entrance; buyer to verify permitted uses. The kitchen is open to the main living area, with stainless steel appliances, a peninsula with seating, and a custom range hood. The primary bathroom has been updated with a double
Exceptional New Price! Welcome to this beautifully updated townhome in the highly sought-after Rose Park Terrace community, offering an outstanding opportunity to own in the heart of El Cerrito. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home features a thoughtfully designed floor plan with all three bedrooms located upstairs, including a generous primary suite with a beautifully updated private bath and
Retreat like setting surrounded by hiking trail, parks and golf course, this tri-level, end unit, 2-bedroom, 2 baths with 2 car garage townhome also features sunlit rooms with skylights, high ceilings, fireplace, front deck, and a perfectly sized rear fenced yard. The community also includes a fenced in pool and tennis court with picnic area. Enjoy El Cerrito's peaceful desirable tree lined
Unlock the potential of this rare offering in San Pablo, CA! Three adjacent lots are now available for sale, presenting a unique opportunity for developers, investors, or individuals looking to build their dream homes. Property Highlights: Flexible Purchase Options, Purchase all three lots together or individually to suit your needs. Prime Location, Situated in a tranquil area of San Pablo with
Lot 3 or 3! Unlock the potential of this rare offering in San Pablo, CA! Three adjacent lots are now available for sale, presenting a unique opportunity for developers, investors, or individuals looking to build their dream homes. Property Highlights: Flexible Purchase Options, Purchase all three lots together or individually to suit your needs. Prime Location, Situated in a tranquil area of San
Lot 2 of 3! Unlock the potential of this rare offering in San Pablo, CA! Three adjacent lots are now available for sale, presenting a unique opportunity for developers, investors, or individuals looking to build their dream homes. Property Highlights: Flexible Purchase Options, Purchase all three lots together or individually to suit your needs. Prime Location, Situated in a tranquil area of San
Prime opportunity in the heart of El Cerrito! This level 55x100 SF lot offers endless possibilities!! Build your dream single family home or explore multi story development options! Ideally located near BART, Transportation, Shopping, DMV, HWY-80 & 580 with just a 15-minute drive to San Francisco. Convenience meets potential; don’t miss it!
Perched above the Berkeley Country Club with breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge, this exceptional newer-construction residence offers the perfect blend of elegance, privacy, and convenience. Built in 2008 and located on a quiet private road, the home features 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths, and 3 half baths across a thoughtfully designed floor plan. The main level is
Welcome to 551 Richmond Street, a Craftsman bungalow that delivers the character you've been dreaming about in a location you'll never want to leave. Stroll a few blocks to El Cerrito Plaza, sip and savor at Banter, dine at Juanita & Maude’s, catch a film at the historic Cerrito Theater, and soak up everything this beloved neighborhood has to offer. With El Cerrito Plaza BART, quick freeway
This property isn't just a lot and land,it's the fountion for a lifestyle.Build your dream home in oneof the best area of Bay area's most desirable neighborhoods,where every day feels like a retreat yet you're only minuts from energy of San Francisco,.
Welcome to this charming single-level home nestled in one of El Cerritos most desirable neighborhoods. This inviting 3-bedroom, 1-bath residence features beautiful hardwood floors, a cozy wood-burning fireplace, dual-pane windows, and abundant natural light throughout. The thoughtfully designed floor plan offers comfortable living spaces, while the attached one-car garage provides added
All renderings, 3D Tours, Walkthrough Video Tours, Matterport Tours, and other multimedia materials are provided for illustrative and reference purposes only. Renderings are an artist’s conception and may not accurately represent the actual features, materials, finishes, or layout of any specific unit. Actual units may vary in detail, design, and appearance. Features, dimensions, pricing, and
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
Mayfair Station features luxury Studio, 1 & 2 bedroom apartment homes. At Mayfair Station, ease and convenience are integrated into every aspect of our property. Now more than ever, we understand that life is on the go. That’s why we’ve designed an efficient home base, providing access to a plethora of transit options only steps away from your front door. Strategically located near downtown El
Civic Plaza Apartments is a charming garden style community providing 1 & 2 bedroom apartments in an ideal urban setting along revitalized San Pablo Avenue, in El Cerrito, CA. Situated a few blocks from Interstate 80, this location allows residents easy access to jobs, shopping, and services in Berkeley, San Francisco, and Oakland. Commute to San Francisco or other Bay Area destinations easily by
A $100,000 renovation was completed nineteen months ago on this spacious 2,157-square-foot, 3-bedroom, 2-bath UNFURNISHED home in the El Cerrito Hills, featuring a distant Bay view. All new appliances, including a new refrigerator, a new stove, and a new washer and dryer set. The home has a new roof. The upper level has newly stained hardwood floors, two bedrooms, one bathroom, the living room
This property is available. Please inquire on this site to schedule a showing. Discover this bright and inviting ADU nestled in the scenic hills of El Cerrito, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay Area. Located privately at the rear lower level of the property, this home features an open-concept living space with gleaming hardwood floors, abundant natural light, and a large
Property Id: 436891 Bright and well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath in-law unit available in the Richmond Annex neighborhood. This comfortable space features a private entrance and a quiet setting, ideal for those seeking convenience and privacy. Conveniently located with easy access to major freeways and public transportation, close to DMV in El Cerrito, making commuting throughout the
Rental price just reduced. Quiet two-bedroom upstairs apartment in a duplex near the intersection of Carlson Blvd. and Central Ave. in El Cerrito. There is also an enclosed sunroom and rear entry. Full kitchen and separate large dining room. Apartment is conveniently located in a pleasant neighborhood near BART, bus transportation and shopping (El Cerrito Plaza/Ranch 99). Bright and cheery.
Albany 2bedroom/1bath Single Family Home near Memorial ParkWithin walking distance to Solano Avenue, Memorial Park, Albany Aquatic Center, Albany High, BART station (~15 min walk)Newly painted inside and out2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom with shower over tubHardwood flooring throughout; tile flooring in kitchen and bathKitchen with breakfast nookOne car garage for a small car
2-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home now available for rent in a quiet, safe neighborhood near the El Cerrito DMV. With a private front and backyard, in-unit laundry, and easy access to transit, shopping, and UC Berkeley.Location Highlights:15-minute walk to El Cerrito del Norte BART station1 block from the bus stop on San Pablo AveWalking distance to grocery stores and
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