Neighborhood guide · 2026-05-01
10 things to know about Orinda 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 Orinda repeatedly.
- 01
The median home price
Orinda median in 2026: $2,050,000. That's $820/sqft on a typical 2,500 sqft home.
- 02
How fast homes sell
13 days on market is the Orinda average. A correctly priced, well-prepped listing often goes pending in 7-14 days.
- 03
Who lives here
Buyers who work in SF or East Bay and want the easiest Lamorinda commute combined with Miramonte-district schools.
- 04
What Orinda isn't
Flat. Orinda is a hill-town — most homes have stairs, driveways, and views to match.
- 05
The schools
Key schools: Sleepy Hollow Elementary (rating 10/10). Miramonte HS (rating 10/10).
- 06
What makes it special
Closest of the three to Oakland/Berkeley via Caldecott Tunnel. BART, mature trees, hillside homes with Bay views, walkable Theatre District.
- 07
Roger's insider note
Glorietta and Country Club area trade fastest. Orinda Downs is the quietest pocket. Sleepy Hollow Elementary catchment is the most desired.
- 08
Best fit for
SF commuters wanting Lamorinda schools, Move-up from Berkeley/Oakland, Long-term family hold.
- 09
Notable amenities
Orinda BART (28 min to SF) · Orinda Theatre + Theatre District · Caldecott Tunnel access to Berkeley/Oakland · Lake Cascade area
- 10
Walk score
33/100. Car-dependent suburban.
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