Top East Bay Neighborhoods Near the Best Schools
Introduction: Where Great Schools Meet Great Living
For many East Bay homebuyers—especially families with school-age children—school districts play a major role in where to buy. Fortunately, the East Bay is home to some of California’s highest-performing public schools, particularly in Walnut Creek and Lamorinda (Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda).
If you’re looking for the best neighborhoods near award-winning schools, this guide covers top districts and the communities that surround them.
1. Why School Districts Matter in the East Bay
Higher property values and stronger resale potential
Consistent demand from families = competitive market
Often lower turnover and more community involvement
Great for long-term investment and peace of mind
Even buyers without children often target these areas for their stability and desirability.
2. Lafayette: A+ Schools and A+ Living
School District: Lafayette School District (K–8) & Acalanes Union High School District
Top Schools:
Happy Valley Elementary
Burton Valley Elementary
Stanley Middle School
Acalanes High School
Best Neighborhoods:
Happy Valley: Close to the elementary school, walkable to BART
Burton Valley: Safe, family-focused, near trails and parks
Reliez Valley: Spacious lots, quiet streets, still zoned for top schools
3. Moraga: Small-Town Feel, Big Education Wins
School District: Moraga School District (K–8) & Acalanes Union HSD
Top Schools:
Los Perales Elementary
Joaquin Moraga Intermediate
Campolindo High School (one of the Bay Area’s top high schools)
Best Neighborhoods:
Campolindo: Walkable to the high school and Lafayette-Moraga Trail
Rheem Valley: Quiet streets, friendly community, near parks
Moraga Country Club: Golf, community events, and top schools nearby
4. Orinda: Elite Schools in a Wooded Setting
School District: Orinda Union School District (K–8) & Acalanes Union HSD
Top Schools:
Glorietta Elementary
Wagner Ranch Elementary
Orinda Intermediate
Miramonte High School (ranked among California’s best)
Best Neighborhoods:
Sleepy Hollow: Close to Miramonte and Glorietta Elementary
Orinda Downs: Larger homes with great resale value
Del Rey Area: Great balance of school proximity and tranquility
5. Walnut Creek: A Mix of Top-Rated and Choice Zones
School Districts: Walnut Creek School District (K–8), Mount Diablo USD, Acalanes HSD (in Saranap), and San Ramon Valley USD (in select areas)
Top Schools:
Walnut Heights Elementary
Murwood Elementary
Las Lomas High School
Some homes feed into Acalanes High or SRVUSD via boundary overlap
Best Neighborhoods:
Walnut Heights: Walkable to parks and schools
Parkmead: Charming homes and walkable to downtown
Saranap: Unique because it feeds into Lafayette schools and Acalanes High
6. Tips for Buying Near Top Schools
Double-check boundaries: Use district maps and verify with the district office
Act quickly: Homes in top school zones go fast and often above asking
Tour the schools: If possible, visit during school hours to get a feel
Talk to locals: Neighbors often provide the best insights on school culture and reputation
Conclusion: A Smart Move for Your Family and Your Future
Buying in a top school district doesn’t just benefit your children—it also protects your investment and puts you in one of the East Bay’s most enduringly desirable areas. Whether you're focused on Lafayette’s community feel, Orinda’s wooded beauty, or Walnut Creek’s central access, there’s a perfect family-friendly neighborhood waiting for you.
Need help finding the right home near the right school?
The 5 Star Team knows the local districts inside and out. Contact us here for expert guidance and school-specific home listings.