How much does it cost to buy a house in Albany?
Albany median is $1,350,000. At 20% down with current rates around 6.85%, expect roughly $270,000 for the downpayment and ~$7,077/mo principal+interest (before tax/insurance/HOA).
For Albany home buyers
Buy a home in Albany — the realistic playbook.
Albany median: $1,350,000. Days on market: 12. $/sqft: $895. Roger Grubb has 18 years of Bay Area buyer-side experience including dozens of Albany transactions. Buyer commission paid by seller — Roger costs you nothing extra.
What $$1,350,000 buys you in Albany
A tightly-knit small city that punches several weight classes above its zip code — top public schools, walkable Solano corridor, and a community that treats every neighbor like a friend.
Roger's insider take: The streets between Solano and Marin have the most consistent appreciation. The hill streets above Marin trade view for a slightly longer walk to BART and Solano.
Buying a Albany home — FAQ
Is Albany a good place to buy a home?
Families who can’t (or won’t) afford Piedmont but want comparable school outcomes, in a community that’s smaller, tighter, and more accessible.
What schools serve Albany?
Key schools: Marin Elementary (8/10), Albany Middle (9/10), Albany High (9/10).
What types of buyers does Albany attract?
Top schools, Walkability, Family-anchored move-up, Long-term hold.
What's the catch with buying in Albany?
A big market — Albany is one square mile. When the right house lists, you decide in 48 hours or you lose it.
How competitive is buying in Albany?
Average 12 days on market. Very competitive — expect multi-offer scenarios on well-priced homes.
How do I find off-market homes in Albany?
Roger Grubb has been transacting in Albany for 18 years and sees ~1-in-4 homes off-market. Call (510) 504-0402 to get on his buyer list.
Buy in Albany — one call.
Roger answers his own phone. (510) 504-0402.