Highland Park

A few miles east of Downtown Oakland is Highland Park, a small neighborhood home to the Highland Hospital, a major draw for many area homeowners. "Highland Park offers you all the benefits of living in a city, while on a quiet, residential street," says Realtor Peter Liu of Re/Max Realty. "While it's a predominantly residential area, you have quick access to the hospital, parks and really good restaurants." Liu has sold homes for 20 years.

Highland Park streetscapes are alive with diverse vegetation, landscaped yards and residents strolling the sidewalk-lined streets. Several houses in Highland Park are over 100 years old, with construction dating back to the early 20th century. You’ll find ample craftsman bungalows and cottages, several adorned with chimneys, colorful paint, first-story garages and covered front porches. Because of the area’s hilly topography, several properties have steep driveways and cement stairways that lead to the front doorstep. You’ll also find larger, multi-level homes renovated to form duplexes. Housing prices vary between $500,000 and $1 million. "Interest rates are steadily increasing, so the housing market is slow right now," Liu says. "But homes here are at a very good price compared to other Oakland neighborhoods."

Bring the kids to Bella Vista Park to enjoy a day outside. The wrought-iron gate opens to a sprawling playground, a small skate park and ample green space. Just over a mile northeast is Dimond Park, which boasts a small playground, tennis courts and a swimming pool. Locals enjoy Dimond Park primarily for its scenic hiking and nature trails. The park’s trails are at the base of the Dimond Valley, so you’ll see ample vegetation like towering, deep-rooted redwood trees.

Students in Highland Park attend schools under the Oakland Unified School District, which scored an overall B-minus on Niche. Kids in Highland Park start at Bella Vista Elementary School. Students at Bella Vista score above average on their tests, earning an overall seven out of 10 on GreatSchools. Students advance to Roosevelt Middle School, which has an overall C from Niche and an enriching after-school program. Students then attend Oakland High School, which touts an overall B-minus on Niche. High school students can choose one of five centralized learning academies that prepare them for post-secondary education and careers. Academies include the Visual Arts Academy, the Public Health Academy, the Law and Social Justice Academy and more.

When residents need groceries, they head to Farmer Joe’s Marketplace and Safeway a mile away. If you’re looking for a cup of joe or a bite to eat, options abound. For a pick-me-up, walk to Xochi the Dog Café. The cozy café sports a trendy aesthetic with a spacious outdoor area if your four-legged friends are tagging along. Menu items include classic espresso beverages alongside tasty treats like quiche, empanadas and various hot sandwiches. Highland Park is also close to a diverse collection of restaurants and food trucks within walking distance. Under a mile south is the Pupuseria Rosita food truck, featuring flavorful pupusas as well as tamales, enchiladas, tacos and more. And if you’re craving a slice of pizza, head to Philomena off 14th Avenue.

Highland Park residents have several community events nearby. Every year, locals flock to Oaktoberfest, a two-day event at the corner of Fruitvale Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard. You can enjoy 200 craft beers, traditional German food and live music.

Highland Park offers quick access to public transportation. Bus stops of the AC Transit system dot the neighborhood, allowing you to easily reach downtown Oakland 3 miles west. You can also hop on the Bay Area Rapid Transit, or BART, to reach San Francisco 12 miles west. The Fruitvale and Lake Merritt BART stations are just under 3 miles away. If you’re traveling out of the area, access to Highway 580 is within a mile. Highland Park is a small community with a proximal zip code, putting the conveniences of Oakland at your doorstep.

Written By

Brennen Martin

Photography Contributed By

Anne Kohler

Video By

Luke Mancari