$1,178,496Average Value$734Average Price per Sq Ft19Homes 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?
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in El Cerrito, CA sell after 21 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in El Cerrito, CA over the last 12 months is $1,200,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Pristine single-story mid-century bungalow, perched on a quiet street in desirable and friendly Richmond Heights! This 3-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom home embraces the era's clean lines with thoughtful and stylish updates inside and out, and encourages you to take a deep breath and relax. Just inside the front door you’ll find the first bedroom, which could also function as a great office or guest
Stepping into 415 Berkeley Park Blvd feels less like entering a house and more like arriving at your own private sanctuary. This 2,783-square-foot masterpiece perfectly balances the romance of a storybook castle—complete with a signature front turret, classic tile roof, and a heavy, beautiful wood front door—with the peace of mind that comes from a meticulous, studs-out renovation. Every inch has
Desirable townhouse in Rose Park Terrace, ideally located in the heart of El Cerrito. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home features an open-concept main level, perfect for entertaining, with a bright kitchen offering stainless steel appliances and ample counter space. The formal dining and living areas are filled with natural light from large windows. The main level also includes a convenient
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
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
Inspired by the warmth and timeless character of a classic Craftsman, the owners thoughtfully transformed this home with hardwood floors, custom wood trim, solid wood doors, a reimagined staircase, and energy-efficient dual-pane windows and doors. A gas fireplace with a hand-carved Celtic mantel anchors the living space, while the modern kitchen flows seamlessly to a den, full bath, pantry, and
Pristine single-story mid-century bungalow, perched on a quiet street in desirable and friendly Richmond Heights! This 3-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom home embraces the era's clean lines with thoughtful and stylish updates inside and out, and encourages you to take a deep breath and relax. Just inside the front door you’ll find the first bedroom, which could also function as a great office or guest
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!
One of the last large hills properties in El Cerrito available for subdivision (3 Sep. Parcels ) perfect private compound. The possibilities are limitless. The site has sweeping panoramic bay views on a gentle down slope, utilities and roadway are in & accessible for developing additional homes on the site. Property Panoramic views of San Francisco, Mt. Tamalpais, Golden Gate and Bay Bridge. The
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,.
Ready to be amazed? This premier lot in the coveted El Cerrito Hills offers the perfect canvas to build your dream home, with breathtaking panoramic views stretching from Oakland across the San Francisco Bay to the ocean and iconic bridges. Boasting expansive frontage and exceptional curb appeal, the property provides unique vantage points from every corner. A private driveway ensures both
Beautifully remodeled Mid-Century level-in home offering 3 bedrooms and 2 updated bathrooms all on one level. The thoughtfully renovated kitchen and baths blend modern style with everyday functionality. Lower level offers a large family room and bonus room providing endless possibilities for a home office, gym, playroom, art studio, workshop, or future ADU expansion. Step outside to a large
What an opportunity to make 605 Sea View Dr., a beautiful new space nestled in the El Cerrito Hills. Bring your imagination and tool belt!!! This home offers stunning Bay Bridge, Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline, and beyond from this ideally located home. This 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and 1,292 square feet of living space on a generous 5,850 sq. ft. lot. It’s a fixer with a blank palette,
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
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
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
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
Property Id: 1045374Brand new build town home. Studio unit located in Level 1 with private laundry access to the back yard and separate entrance door. Brand new appliances. Parking space included on the drive way. Convenient location to HWY80 and 4 mins driving distance to El Cerrito Plaza Bart Station. Close to 24 hrs Fitness Center, CVS Pharmacy, restaurants, groceries store, cafe and
A rare find in the East Bay hills — a fully refreshed single-story home where every major item has already been taken care of, in one of El Cerrito's most established and neighborly blocks.The home's bonus studio — a converted, fully finished garage with insulation, sheetrock, multiple outlets, ample shelving, and an included 54" television — makes this an exceptional choice for remote
Bright and spacious single-family home for lease in a desirable Richmond location. This 4 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom home offers approximately 1,425 square feet of comfortable living space with an abundance of natural light throughout. The interior feels warm and inviting, with large windows bringing in plenty of sunshine and creating an airy atmosphere across the living areas and bedrooms. The
This beautifully remodeled one bedroom has hardwood floors throughout the apartment. New kitchen and appliances, hardwood floors, Italian bathroom tiles, and built-in storage. It's only a five block walk to BART, one block to a great coffee house, theater, and a short walk to the El Cerrito Plaza shops & Trader Joes. The kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, dishwasher, disposal, built-in
$5,295 per month
Remodeled Spacious 4Bed/3Bath House Home in El Cerrito!
Welcome to this spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom house located in the vibrant community of El Cerrito, CA. Freshly painted and boasting hardwood floors & new Vinyl Plank Flooring throughout, this home offers a blend of comfort and style. The large fully remodeled kitchen, equipped with a dishwasher and fridge, is perfect for those who love to cook and entertain. The house also
Available NOW!!! Beautiful 2 bed 1 bath with bay view at prime location in El Cerrito.Showing by appointment only. Due to the volume of inquiries, no phone calls please. Please send us message by clicking on "Request a tour" or "Check Availability" or "Email" with your credit score and email address, we will contact you to schedule an appointment.Check out the 3D WALKINTOUR:
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