Why Live in Bella Vista
Bella Vista, located in Oakland's East Lake area, is a neighborhood characterized by its early to mid-20th-century Craftsman-style homes, bungalows, and occasional Victorian "Painted Ladies." Many homes have been updated with modern amenities while retaining period details like ornate trim and bay windows. The area is walkable, with tall trees lining the narrow, hilly streets and sidewalks. Bella Vista Park serves as a community hub, featuring a playground, community garden, and picnic tables. Nearby Lake Merritt offers additional outdoor activities, including walking, picnicking, and barbecuing. The neighborhood is surrounded by diverse dining options, such as La Perla for Puerto Rican cuisine and Shaan for Indian dishes, with the Grand Lake shopping district offering Ethiopian fare at Café Romanat and retro dining at Bardo Lounge. Xochi the Dog Café is a local favorite gathering spot. Essential amenities like Safeway, Farmer Joe’s, and CVS are about a mile and a half away in Lower Diamond. Bella Vista is safer than the national average, with a crime rate lower than many other areas. Interstate 580 provides easy access to the rest of the Bay Area, with downtown Oakland 3 miles away, Berkeley 6 miles, and San Francisco 13 miles. While public transportation is available, many residents rely on cars for commuting. The neighborhood is served by the Oakland Unified School District, with Bella Vista Elementary, Edna Brewer Middle School, and Oakland High School nearby.