Neighborhood guide · 2026-05-01
10 things to know about Lafayette before you buy.
A buyer's guide written by Roger Grubb, a 18-year Bay Area realtor (DRE #01845823, Security Pacific Real Estate) who has transacted in Lafayette repeatedly.
- 01
The median home price
Lafayette median in 2026: $2,100,000. That's $875/sqft on a typical 2,400 sqft home.
- 02
How fast homes sell
14 days on market is the Lafayette average. A correctly priced, well-prepped listing often goes pending in 7-14 days.
- 03
Who lives here
Families willing to pay a school premium for what locals consider the best K-12 district in the inland East Bay.
- 04
What Lafayette isn't
Inexpensive. The Acalanes school premium has held for 20+ years.
- 05
The schools
Key schools: Lafayette Elementary (rating 10/10). Acalanes HS (rating 10/10).
- 06
What makes it special
Mature suburban with rural-feeling lots. Acalanes High district is a real estate driver. BART direct to SF, Mt. Diablo views, Lafayette Reservoir trails.
- 07
Roger's insider note
Happy Valley and Burton Valley are the Lafayette sweet spots. South of Pleasant Hill Rd. is more transactable; Reliez Valley is the value play within Lafayette.
- 08
Best fit for
Top-school families, Move-up from Walnut Creek/Concord, Long-term hold (10+ years).
- 09
Notable amenities
Lafayette Reservoir trails · BART direct to SF (35 min) · Acalanes HS district · Downtown Lafayette restaurants
- 10
Walk score
41/100. Car-dependent suburban.
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