Moving to Lamorinda? Here’s What Buyers Should Know
Introduction: Why Lamorinda Stands Out in the East Bay
Nestled between Walnut Creek and Oakland, Lamorinda—the collective name for Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda—is one of the most desirable areas in the East Bay. Known for top-rated schools, scenic beauty, and a strong sense of community, Lamorinda attracts families, professionals, and retirees looking for a quieter, more connected lifestyle without sacrificing access to San Francisco or Silicon Valley.
If you're planning a move to Lamorinda, here’s what you need to know about neighborhoods, home types, schools, and commute options.
1. What Exactly Is “Lamorinda”?
Lamorinda refers to the tri-city region of:
Lafayette – Bustling downtown, strong public schools, BART access
Moraga – Quiet and residential, top schools, family-oriented
Orinda – Green hills, spacious lots, arts culture, and BART-friendly
Each town offers a distinct vibe, but all three share excellent schools, beautiful landscapes, and easy access to open space.
2. Home Prices and Market Snapshot
While all of Lamorinda is considered upscale, there are differences in pricing and home styles.
CityMedian Home PriceCommon Home TypesLafayette~$2MRanch, traditional, customMoraga~$1.7MMid-century, suburban, EichlersOrinda~$2.1MLuxury homes, hillside estates
Pro Tip: Moraga can offer slightly more value per square foot, while Lafayette and Orinda tend to be more competitive due to proximity to BART.
3. Schools: Some of the Best in California
Families move to Lamorinda largely for its top-ranked school districts. All three cities feed into the Acalanes Union High School District, which consistently ranks among the best in the state.
Standout schools include:
Lafayette Elementary School District (Happy Valley, Springhill, Burton Valley, Lafayette Elementary)
Moraga School District (Camino Pablo, Los Perales, Rheem)
Orinda Union School District (Glorietta, Wagner Ranch)
Campolindo, Miramonte, and Acalanes High Schools
4. Commute Options and Transportation
Lamorinda is well-connected for Bay Area commuters, particularly those heading to Oakland, San Francisco, or Walnut Creek.
BART Stations: Lafayette and Orinda
Highways: Quick access to Hwy 24 and I-680
Drive Times:
Lafayette to SF: ~30–45 mins (non-peak)
Orinda to Oakland: ~20 mins
Moraga to Lafayette BART: ~10–15 mins
Note: Moraga has no BART station of its own, which can be a factor for daily commuters.
5. Lifestyle and Community Vibe
Each Lamorinda town has its own flavor:
Lafayette: Vibrant downtown, restaurants, coffee shops, and arts. Active lifestyle and higher walkability.
Moraga: Family-centric, quiet, with strong community involvement and open space. Home to Saint Mary’s College.
Orinda: More rural and serene feel, with large lots, winding roads, and a touch of luxury.
6. Outdoor Living and Recreation
Lamorinda offers outstanding access to the outdoors:
Lafayette Reservoir – Trails, fishing, boating
Briones Regional Park – Miles of hiking and biking
Moraga Commons Park – Playgrounds, concerts, bike paths
Orinda Theatre Square – Cultural hub for events and film
Outdoor lovers will feel right at home.
7. Tips for Moving to Lamorinda
Start early: Homes sell quickly, especially near top schools
Be prepared: Many listings receive multiple offers
Work with a local agent: A knowledgeable Lamorinda Realtor can help you navigate pricing, schools, and off-market opportunities
Conclusion: Lamorinda Has a Home for You
Whether you're looking for a vibrant downtown (Lafayette), a peaceful family community (Moraga), or hillside views with space to grow (Orinda), Lamorinda offers a unique blend of beauty, convenience, and top-tier quality of life.
Thinking of relocating to Lamorinda?
The 5 Star Team knows this area block by block. Reach out today to schedule a buyer consultation and get expert insight on your move.