Living in Richmond
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Living in Richmond
Jan 2007
We are set to move out of our apartment in San Francisco at the end of the
month, and are looking to move to a lower rent area within an easy commute of
San Rafael.
I would like to know if moving to Point Richmond is a good or bad idea, and
hear what others think about it.
I like the small town atmosphere, the low rents, and the fact that San Rafael
(where my husband works) is right over the Richmond Bridge.
I worry that the oil refineries could be problematic for my childs health (she
is 11 months old) and that crime could be an issue.
What do you all think? We are trying to make a decision in a very little
amount of time.
Anne
Point Richmond is a great town! We have lived here for 7 yrs. We have a 5 and 3 yr
old. We were concerned about the refinery as well when we first moved here. There
are so many 80-90 yr olds that have lived here since the 40's we figured it can't be
that bad, and the wind is almost always blowing away from the refinery. The town is
very community oriented, and there is a great parents group (PRAM) to get involved
with for even more great connections and activities! Everything is within walking
distances (park, beach, market, restaurants, school). I wouldn't want to live any where
else in the bay area!
Love it in the Point
November 2006
Hello BPN members--I'm thinking about moving to the East Richmond Heights
area--unincorporated Richmond hills near the Self-Realization Fellowship
temple--and would like to hear from anyone who's living/lived there what
their experience is.
Considering how close Richmond is to UC Berkeley, I'm surprised at how few
postings are archived on this site about living/moving to this area. It's
twelve minutes to Solano Ave and twenty-five to downtown Berkeley. I've
found some quiet streets with beautiful views overlooking Wildcat Canyon,
and a relaxed atmosphere that hints of hippie happiness--the house prices
are way lower than Berkeley or El Cerrito Hills, but the community seems
pretty similar, less status-conscious perhaps, but into gardening, biking,
etc. There are a couple of cool alternative schools, and even the little
grocery store on the Arlington (Arlington Market) that kind of looks like
a ghetto liquor store from the outside (bars on windows etc.) surprisingly
sells only organic milk and mostly organic produce and health food brand
foods. Is there something I don't know about this neighborhood that's
keeping prices lower (like, are there huge landslide problems, does
pollution from the Richmond refineries ever affect the hills?) or is this
just a case of the Richmond zipcode deterring buyers? I'm just surprised
to find 3-4 bed homes with nice views and an OK-sounding elementary school
in the 500K-600K range so close to everything.
Curious about Richmond Hills
I'm so glad you asked! I do think this area gets overlooked due to the ''Richmond''
designation. We've been very happy here. We moved here in 2000 (lured, like you, by
the much lower housing costs), so we've now been here 6 1/
2 years. The neighborhoods are very diverse -- older folks, young ''hippie''- esque
people, blue-collar and white-collar families, of all ethnicities. I do wish there
were more families with children, but perhaps that will come as the neighborhood
continues to transition. The views are great, nearby Alvarado Park is really
gorgeous, and both El Cerrito Plaza and Solano Ave are 10 minutes away. We've had
less crime here than we did in Berkeley. It is usually
very quiet and peaceful on the weekends. We have been very pleasantly
suprised by our local elementary school, Mira Vista, which has a committed, energetic
principal; excellent, experienced teachers; and a lot of great kids. As far as
earthquakes, we are on the Hayward fault, but so is much of Berkeley and El Cerrito.
We've never had any pollution from the refineries; can't even smell them. In short,
we're very happy with our quiet, off-the-radar neighborhood and its proximity to all
the nature and culture the Bay Area has to offer!
Christine
Richmond View is a great place to live..We love the weather, the variety of homes and
the diverse population that lives up here. We feel lucky with the view of Mt. Tam and
the accessibility to I-80. Prices are lower than in Berkeley and yet the home design
is not unlike the higher priced areas.
Because we are close to the flat lands of Richmond, you may experience what urban
areas do..some crime...We have had cars broken into but not unlike other bay area
spots.
The School system is working hard to keep up and Mira Vista Elementary gets good
reviews..
We have thought that this area is a well-kept secret!!
andrea
We've lived in Richmond View (ie: East Richmond) for 17 years.
We love it here. We live on Tulare avenue between Barrett ave and Hazel just
diagonally down from the Mira Vista School.
It's a GREAT neighborhood. There are no dismal secrets keeping prices of housing
lower. It may be the Richmond reputation.
The local public school is the Mira Vista School, just recently rebuilt. Both my kids
went there in the lower grades. You couldn't ask for more dedicated wonderful
teachers. Tehiyah Day School is also in the neighborhood on the El Cerrito side, and
Windrush is nearby also in El Cerrito (for private schools).
Crestmont is also in the neighborhood as is Adams Middle School.
Below the MV School is a 7 acre piece of land belonging to the school district. It has
become a neighborhood park...we, the neighbors take care of it.
The Arlington Market is indeed a small hidden treasure in our community. I walk and
run in the neighborhood, walk my dogs, etc.
Have met many neighbors over the years.
The refinery, though can be an eyesore if you have a view of it, is not a pollution
problem to us because the wind seems to carry any fumes north...not great for the
northern neighbors, but doesn't come up here.
If you have the refinery in your view, you only need to divert your eyes slightly
upward to look at the much more grande view of Mt. Tam.
I work in Berkeley, my husband works in Albany and Berkeley. It takes us 12-20 minutes
(depending on time we leave and which location we're going to) to get to work on the
town streets.
This is a wonderful neighborhood for adults, kids and dogs.
June
Richmond View/Heights is a great kept secret!! I don't see anything negative about it
except that you'd still have to drive in to Berkeley, etc. We have lived in this area
since 2000 and LOVE it. In fact, we started out renting and since then have bought
and moved into two houses (all on the same block) in the area mainly because of our
neighbors, the view (we have a picture perfect view of Mt. Tam and a view of Golden
Gate Bridge) and the cost of the homes (in 2001, it was in the $300k's, in 2005, it
was in the $700k's for 4 BDRM/2BA homes). The residents are usually older, retired
folks OR young families starting out with infants/toddlers. Our neighborhood is a mix
of these two. Our toddler attends a Waldorf-based preschool nearby; we live 7 minutes
away from Solano Avenue, closer to Central Plaza, can drive along the Arlington to get
to Berkeley, and are a bike ride away to BART. There are also some wonderful parks
for the kids. We have a Fat Apple's nearby and Wildcat Canyon park (adjacent to
Tilden) a few blocks away. There are some nice neighborhood shortcuts to get you in
to Berkeley, etc. without having to be on the freeway. But yes, because Richmond
View/Heights *IS* Richmond, home prices are less here. Our real estate agent, who is
from the Peninsula, tried to talk us out of buying in Richmond until she drove up here
and saw the beautiful houses.
Richmond Heights butts into El Cerrito and even Kensington. El Cerrito homes cost
about the same (but not Kensington's).
future neighbors?
I've lived in Richmond View almost 20 years. Yes, cheaper housing, beautiful views,
etc. The prices are much lower (altho not nearly as low as they used to be, Richmond
is catching up).
The prices are lower not because of landslides, etc. but primarily because its
Richmond and primarily because of the schools. Mira Vista is ok, Adams Middle a
disaster and Kennedy High not a consideration. There are several great privates,
charter, etc. around. We managed because we were able to do transfers into other
WCCUSD schools (Harding and EC High, many people in the neighborhood get their kids
into Madera but I always felt it wasn't diverse enough and too elitist. There are many
great things about living here including having money left over to do things, but you
can't really walk to anything and we do find ourselves doing everything in EC or
Berkeley, but you can buy a house and still have money left over to do things if you
can manage the school stuff. We actually get to go on vacations, unlike my friends who
have overpaid to live in El Cerrito or Berkeley.
anon
I live in Richmond Annex, and know many familiies that live in Richmond View. It is
a great area to live in and you get so much more house for your money. I think the
schools are a big issue for families. The elementary schools are ok. The midddle
schools are problematic for many. I know many families who send their kids to
Windrush for middle school and the public schools for elementary and high school.
Also I think that area is zoned for Kennedy High which is a concern for many
families. El Cerrito High serves other parts of Richmond and there are many middle
class families who attend there and are quite satisfied with the education and
opportunities there.
anon
I was intrigued by folks' responses about living in Richmond View.
Can someone please give the rough boundaries and/or zipcodes of
this area - I searched online and wasn't able to find any such
info. Thank you.
Joan
Our zip code in Richmond View is 94805.
I think that's the only one. I'm not totally positive about boundaries but here's a
rough idea.
North of Barrett avenue from Arlington Blvd down to a few blocks above San Pablo
Avenue.
I'm not sure if Solano avenue (not the one in Bkly/Alb) or McBryde would be the more
northern boundary.
Also within that general area above the Arlington.
There is a triangle of unincorporated county that is considered Richmond View.
If you can find the Mira Vista Elementary School, you are in Richmond View. I know this
is spotty, but hope it helps.
RV resident
Richmond View also known as Richmond Heights runs roughly North and South from Barrett
Ave north to McBryde, East West from Hwy 80 to the Hills above the Arlington - to
Wildcat Canyon. It is
94805 zip code.
Richmond Viewer
Richmond View is also known as ''East Richmond Heights.'' I don't know exact borders,
but a rough guideline is anything just above or just below Arlingon Blvd, between
Barrett St. in El Cerrito and McBryde Ave in Richmond. The Western ''boundary'' is
probably San Pablo, and the Eastern one is the hills themselves .
Christine
I'm not sure if there are ''official'' boundaries. This area lies
in zipcode 94805. I would say the area is the area of the 94805
zipcode on the east side of I-80 that has some kind of view--
perhaps roughly between McBryde to the North and Barrett to the
South, and Wildcat Canyon on the east side? There is a
neighborhood council, (website:www.eastrichmond.org) which has
some info about the area--it's also known as Richmond Heights--
but it also has info on Richmond in general so it's hard to
distinguish boundaries from that website alone. There's also a
realtor, Cynthia Burke, who specializes in the area, her
website is www.richmondview.com--you could call her and find
out more!
Also interested in Richmond View
April 2006
I live in the city of Richmond and I'd like the opinion of
other Richmond parents.
Currently, my son is one year old. We bought a home in Richmond
three years ago because we couldn't afford any other city.
While we're not thrilled with the schools and the crime rates
in some areas, we are really happy with our neighbors, and we
love the little-known Mexican and Salvadoran
panaderias/restaurants on 23rd street, the climate, the Marina
Bay shoreline, the access to other cities, and the library.
The ''problem'' is that most of our friends with kids live in
Albany, Montclair, or the Berkeley Hills. In our discussions
with them (and with others), I've detected a disdain for
Richmond. People think this town is all about crime and drugs.
They think that our kids will be in lousy public schools and
that we should move out. Hidden beneath this ''fear'' of Richmond
is, I feel, a kind of prejudice about poor and inner-city
African-American and Latino kids.
So, to the Richmond parents out there: Is Richmond really a bad
place to raise your kids? I mean, have your experiences with
the schools been that bad? And do you know of any cool, secret
Richmond places to take your kids for fun?
New Richmond Mom
We have lived in Richmond for over 20 years and have raised two children
in our wonderful, diverse neighborhod. One daughter is now in college,
the other is an 11th grader at ECHS. Among the places we have enjoyed in
Richmond are the Art Center, near the main library; restaurants and shops
in Point Richmond; Keller Beach, at the Miller-
Knox Recreation Area through the tunnel at Pt. Richmond; Alvarado Park
(take McBryde up to Arlington Ave.); the Vietnamese Restaurant in the
strip mall near San Pablo and Barrett. Over the years I've noticed the
same disdainful attitude you mentioned. Richmond?? And granted we
transferred our daughters into schools not in our neighborhood. As
Richmond residents you can put in for a transfer to schools throughout
the WCCUSD, including schools in Kensington, El Cerrito, Hercules,
Pinole, etc., if you are not happy with your local school. I admit that
my car often heads to Berkeley to shop, see friends, go to the movies,
etc. But it's only a 10-15 minute drive, and here we've been able to own
a nice home, meet many like-minded people, raise our children, and other
than having our car stolen from in front of our house once (just like our
friends in El Cerrito and Berkeley) we've had no problems with crime.
Judy
I too have noticed the ...distain? at the very least I've found my
friends and family expect that I am either looking to get out (I'm not)
or that I'm planning to use another address to send my kids to schools in
oaktown, berkeley or albany (Again, I've no such plans or desires). I
can't speak directly to the school issue as my kids are still several
years from school age but I do love point pinole park it has a play
ground, a pier, beach access and lots of easy trails. I also really like
wild cat canyon. there's access up clark road off san pablo dam road with
a 1 mile up hill walk (!) good work out and the veiw from the top is a
360 degree panorama of the whole bay area. I like the royal palace for
chinese, there's a good salvadoran restaurant on SDR - I forget the name
and tandori chicken for indian. and I love living within sight of the
contra costa campus. ilona
I moved to Richmond almost 2 years ago and I love it. I know exactly
what you mean about those comments when you tell people you live in
Richmond - I've had friends tell me that they are too scared to come over
here but interestingly could not back it up with a reason why (and my
conclusion was the same as yours - prejudice rearing it's ugly head.
I have a 3 year old son and these are the reasons why I love it here.
1. It is located in the middle of everything. I shop in Pinole (the book
store train table is less crowded), dine out in Marin, can take the
Golden Gate to SF & get to all of the ''kid friendly places'' in Berkeley
& Albany very quickly if I choose.
2. My home was so affordable that I can afford to send my son to the
private school of my choice and still save for retirement. 3. I live in
a community driven neighborhood. Every night I take my son out to the
playground (2 minutes walk from my front door) where there are about a
dozen kids from a variety of backgrounds playing, riding bikes & walking
their dogs. 4. I know my neighbors! After years of living in Berkeley &
Oakland I never made contact with the people next door. Here I know most
people within a 2 block radius. Gosh we've even had some over for dinner
and we take care of each others pets when we vacation!
5. Oh, & crime. In a recent community meeting with my neighbors, the
only thing that has happened to any of us in the last year has been 1 car
break in.
Basically people like to believe the hype they read in the newspapers and
ignore the fact that Richmond is a large city with many wonderful family
driven neighborhoods.
So where are the hidden areas? You mentioned some of the wonderful ones
that I too found (Marina, great food etc). Please go over to Point
Richmond & join PRAM. I found this gem out too late but if I had a one
year old I'd join in a flash. We like going for walks along the shoreline
in Point Richmond and we are trying to get there on a Sunday to see the
trains running at the Golden State Model Railroad museum at Miller-
Knox Regional Park. I also love the playground on Barrett Ave a few
blocks below Arlington and it you like Vietnamese food, pick up some
lunch at Huong Tra on San Pablo to take with you. Yum.
csherryc
We moved to Richmond (North and East) 2 years ago and for various reasons
my older daughter had already started private school in Berkeley. I am
excited about the small charter co-op middle school currently on Barrett
in the 30's. I don't have personal experience with the elementary schools
but our local one looks dismal to me from the outside, and I have heard
that the poorest and neediest schools in West County are the very last on
the list to be remodeled (they started with Kensington and some in El
Cerrito) I would presume this is because the parents have less vocal
presence- i.e. many non-English speaking parents, many working more than
one job with no time to lobby for their schools, etc. In short I really
like living in Richmond, and it was more worth it to us to buy a house
than rent in a ''good'' school district. Also, much can change by the
time your little one is in kindergarten, and there are several good
transfer possibilities if needed, too. Nearby we like going to Point
Pinole regional park- pretty bay trails, playground, passing trains at
one point, plus small beachy area (non-swim.)we love the restaurants, too
and Williams Natural Grocery, proximity to Marin hiking, Alvarado park-
wildcat canyon. There's supposed to be an organic farm (in Richmond! off
sp dam rd I think) I have not seen them at the local farmer's market but
heard they are providing some organic produce and programs in some of the
poorest schools and via a farmer's market. what else? Richmond Art Center
(also in dire financial trouble,)NIAD, East Bay Performing Arts Center,
point richmond's beach trail and mini railroad museum. And FYI all
Richmond homeowners can get a free eval. to see if you have room for a
FREE adopt-a-tree (street tree for free!- you water it and knock out the
concrete if needed which really isn't that hard.)They plant year round
and give you a choice of trees that will work for your spot. I'll repost
with the tree info. Yes many people have a bad impression of Richmond, I
did too until we moved here. Now I Really Like it though can't quite say
I love it (more trees please!!)Email if you'd like to....
chris
Hello,
I wouldn't recommend sending my child to any of the schools in Richmond.
It is unfortunate but just like many urban areas, the schools are not
very good. For a couple of years, my highschooler only received 1 of 6 of
his textbooks. Fighting for what my kids need at school has become a part
time job! Usually the elementary schools in an under performing school
district are tolerable, but in Richmond this is not the case. The squeaky
wheel really does get more attention. I am not saying this because the
schools are majority minority students. In fact, I am an African American
who moved to the Bay Area because of the diversity that I wasn't getting
in my previous city. Sometimes I wonder if it was worth it because I
didn't expect the Bay Area to be so ''run down'', schools and all. I can
also tell you that when we first arrived here my kids were welcomed by
getting beat up and robbed while walking to Hilltop mall, and this is
supposed to be a nicer area of Richmond. Just be careful with your
precious child.
Good Luck anon
I was born in Richmond and have lived here off and on for much of my
life. We bought our house in the Richmond View 2 years ago. I get the
same thing from people when I tell them where I live. They are usually
folks who did not grow up in the Bay Area and know little about the area
besides the neighborhoods they live in. It doesn't bother me and you
shouldn't let it bother you. There is absolutely prejudice there but
more than that simply a fear of the unknown which in a lot of ways is the
same thing.
I like to walk on Bernhard Street up where we live. It is absolutely
beautiful. Another awesome walk is on McBryde above the Wild Cat
FreeSchool. Clinton Hill is really lovely and has some cool houses. We
love La Bamba and the Ace Hardware store on McBryde rocks. Downtown in
the Civic Center area is the community center where I took ballet growing
up. The library is a fun outing. Wild Cat Canyon Park is great for dog
walking or a family hike.
As far as the schools here...well as a product of them I have to say that
in many ways they were lacking. Kennedy High was not a nice place to be
in the 80's. Maybe it has changed. I have a college degree and work in
a ''professional'' industry so what matters most is what you learn at
home.
Don't worry about what other people say or think. I'm very happy we live
an affordable lifestyle and have time to enjoy our family. We plan on
staying here for a long time.
Richmond Born and Raised
Hi! Living in Richmond is not easy. While you might love your
neighbors, the reality is that we have very high crime and some of the
worst schools in the state. On the whole, our elected officials are weak
and yet our citizens continue to vote them in. Richmond has a
disproportionate amount of low-income families, families in poverty and
under-educated families. As a result, efforts to make changes in the
school system and broader community are monumentally difficult because
the families lack the resources and education to participate in the
change.
That's the reality.
On the other side, if you're up for the challenge, Richmond is a great
place to be involved. Anything you do, within the schools in particular,
is appreciated, and makes a huge difference. Shared adversity builds
stronger communities! And, you can't get our diversity in Orinda, Marin,
or Lafayette and that is definitely not something that you can ''teach''
in school.
As for ''best kept secrets'' in Richmond, PRAM (Parents, Resources and
More) is great! Located at 110 E. Richmond Ave in Pt. Richmond, the
operate a little center which is open for free everyday for free play-
it's for kids under 6 primarily. They also run free and low-cost
classes. I think they have a website-
www.pram.net
Not bailing on Richmond yet
April 2004
Do any bpn subscribers have information on what it is like to
live in Richmond Annex? I am new to the area and would like to
hear other peope's impressions.
Anon
I have two sets of friends who own homes in the Annex and would
be glad to ask if they would chat with you if you like. They
are very happy with their homes and location.
Pamela
My partner's mother lives in Richmond Annex, and really likes it.
Her block is very neighborly (most of her neighbors do things
like help in her yard, come by with cookies, call to see how
she's doing, and basically treat her like family). It's pretty
close to lots of things - right next to El Cerrito Plaza with
lots of shopping, the BART, and close to a natural foods store as
well. Parts of it are really nice to walk around in. She got a
great house for a relatively low price, for the Bay Area. The
only thing I'm not sure of is what school district it is in, and
what that's like - so check around about that if you have
school-aged kids.
Jen
We have lived in the Annex since the end of 2001. It has quite
a few families as it has been one of the last affordable
neighborhoods to buy a house in (we're essentially a one-income
family). It has two parks, Huntington and Mendocino
(a ''pocket'' park). It is in walking distance to the EC Plaza
and the shops at the bottom of Moeser Lane. The Annex has a
dedicated Neighborhood Council that meets monthly. If you are
thinking about buying a house here, you might check out the
parks and the Council meeting to get more of a feeling for the
people in the neighborhood.
Happy in the Annex
the annex is a lovely, tree-lined neighborhood, in my opinion
very family friendly and many families live there. The parks/
playgrounds are modest but safe and clean. Very nearby is a
great health food store El Cerrito Grocer and also El Cerrito
Plaza with Trader Joe's. We don't live there (waited too long
and got priced out) but know many families there. However, the
families I know there (say 5-6) have all chosen private school
but the local ones may be improving and have good parent
involvement.
anon
We recently moved to the Richmond Annex and have been really
pleased with the neighborhood. Our neighbors are really
friendly and there is an active neighborhood association.
Housing prices, while still ridiculous, are lower than just
across the El Cerrito border a few blocks away. All of our
assigned neighborhood public schools are located in El Cerrito.
Richmond Annex neighbor
We really like living in the Richmond Annex. Because it is so
easily accessible from Highways 80 and 580, it is a great
location to commute from. The downfall of the area is a lack of a
walking neighborhood with shops, etc. While there are many stores
nearby (Target, CostCo, Home Depot) there is no cute downtown to
stroll through and stop at a cafe, windowshop, etc.
Mary
I would seriously consider living in Albany or (North) Berkeley
before purchasing in the Richmond Annex area, especially if you
have children you hope to send to public schools. That is
largely why property values there are on the lower end. I have
one friend who lives in that area whose car was repeatedly
broken into because they did not have a garage. They
speculated that the ''robbers'' likely came from nearby Richmond,
just down the street. Look around a bit and consider more than
just the face value of the home you are looking at. The
neighborhood, the schools, resale potential, the residents'
educational level...
Good luck!
We have lived in Richmond Annex for 12 years. It is a quiet
neighborhood and we have not wanted to move despite outgrowing
our house. It is not too far from Berkeley, and is easily
accessible to Pinole shopping, as well as shopping and dining
across the San Rafael bridge. There is a Neighborhood Council
that works towards maintaining the quality of life here and has
worked towards installing new stop signs, redesigning Carlson
Blvd with a median strip, beginning adult ed classes at Alvarado
School,etc. It's a fairly walkable area; we can walk to Longs,
Safeway, Target, El Cerrito Natural Foods, Huntington park. My
son went to Castro School for a few years and that introduced us
to many of our neighbors. The crime on our street has been
mostly limited to a few stolen cars, tho in the last couple of
months, one of our neighbors had an attempted robbery, which is
quite rare. So we have been pretty happy living here.
jen
This is a post from a friend of mine that lives in the Annex. i
told her about the post and she was wanting to post and tell you
her 2 cents. I do hope that it isn't against the rules....
Hello I am Bobbie, I live in the Annex. I grew up here.
Depending on the location of the house you really need to look
around at night. on the hill closest to the EC Border is VERY
nice great park and close to the stores. Same with close to
Huntington Park. On the areas just beyond the freeway over pass
near the foodmarket and gas station is a bit rundown. BUT if
you are on the hill above Carlson on that side it is a hidden
treasure. Thats where I live. As you know the schools leave a
LOT to be desired. Most are EC Schools though. on the other
side of the freeway nearest Costco is getting better. Here in
the Annex there are middle class working families very
ethnically mixed and for the most part very friendly. My
neighbors are very nice and very diverse. You have many people
like myself that have grown up here and looked to stay when we
bought our house. There are problems like every other
neighborhood whether in a 'rich'or 'poor' part of town. I just
can't get over the fact that the houses are so expensive now.
just look around at night and see for yourself. I hope that you
do pick the Annex we really need great families here.
b3rkl33m0m
My child attends an El Cerrito public school with a mix of
families from El Cerrito, the Annex, and nearby communities. El
Cerrito schools are working hard to offer rigorous academics,
improve their music programs, provide more arts instruction, and
some have very high levels of parent involvement. Test scores are
improving too. They aren't perfect but what school district is?
Even the most affluent ones tend to have their share of problems.
The annex is one of the few affordable neighborhoods left in the
East Bay and the schools are fine. Go check them out for
yourself, take tours, talk with parents who are actually
enrolled. Much of the negative stuff I read about the schools is
posted by parents who don't attend or went many years ago. You
may be surprised at what you find.
El Cerrito Public school mom
April 2004
TRYING to by a house in the east bay without ending up
completely in the poor-house! Our realtors are really pushing
Richmond North & East. Can anyone tell me their experience with
this - safety, family/child friendliness. Would love to hear
from other families that have looked and/or bought here.
Thanks tons!
michcapp
I grew up in north and east richmond, and I have have to say
that there are many friendly people, and nice neighborhoods,
especially in the hills. There is a great park (Alvarado Park)
too. However, my big caveat would be the schools. I went to
these schools 30 years ago when they were decent, but I would
think long and hard before I would willingly put my child in
the West Contra Costa district today, schools that are having
such financial problems that they are laying off teachers and
closing library facilities. And, if you're going to pay for
private school, it seems like you might as well try to find a
small house in albany or somewhere where houses are more
expensive but the schools are good. Good luck on your decision!
anon
We bought a house in the N&E neighborhood 3-1/3 years ago for
the same reasons: the houses were charming, the neighborhood
was safe, and it was affordable. At the time we felt very
lucky to have found a house on one of the ''good'' blocks as it
seemed to change a bit from block to block.
Last year my husband and I did a lot of walking around the
neighborhood with our baby & dog and we were both amazed at how
much it has changed in such a short time. EVERYONE seemed to
be doing home improvement. And most of the time, when a
somewhat run down, house goes on the market it is snapped up
and revonated either by the owner or for resale. It's getting
to the point where there are no ''good'' vs. ''not-so-good'' blocks
anymore - it's all really lovely. We always said it was
charming like the flat areas of Albany and North Berkeley, but
without the hefty price tag. And our home value had increased
over 25% when we checked last year.
Our experience has been that we know our neighbors better than
anywhere we have ever lived before. The N&E is such a safe
(well, as safe as anywhere can be these days), friendly and
close-knit neighborhood. They even have their own newsletter!
We constantly meet new people while we are on our walks as
people really stop to chat in this neighborhood. The ice-cream
vendors walking by with their ice cream carts are also a nice
touch.
The only thing we never looked into when buying, because we had
no children at the time, was the schools. And I would
seriously look into it before making a decision. I'm not so
sure how they are, but I know they're not the greatest.
As for everything else, I can't recommend it enough. We truly
love it. If you want and more info. or end up buying and want
more info. on the newsletter or great places to eat, feel free
to email me.
maya_elena
We live in the NE area. We bought our house here in 1998 before
the boom in prices. Our house is now valued at more than three
times what we paid. Despite that, it is still a relatively
inexpensive area for home buying... compared to Albany it is
affordable. There is a two bedroom for sale across the street
from us for $395,000. That is about standard for the area from
the numbers we have seen.
The pluses:
The area is turning over. We have relatives who have lived in
this area for 50 years, and the area has seen some ups and
downs. It seems to me that more and more young families are
buying into the area, and actually living here. The ground is
flat... great for walking dogs and riding bikes. There are
several little neighborhood parks, plus Nicholls Park which is
really big and full of soccer games during the summer. Every
Friday from April through November the Richmond Farmers Market
is at the Civic Center from 12-6. The Civic Center also is home
to a big public library and the Richmond Art Center where there
are lots of classes. It is pretty quiet... we live very close to
the police station and rarely notice sirens. It is close to both
580 and 880 so commuting is really easy. There are a few good
restaurants in the area, and many that are close by... plus it
is only a short drive to attractions in El
Cerrito/Albany/N.Berkeley. Shopping is close by too.
The minuses:
Per my family's recommendation stay within the following
boundaries for the better parts of the neighborhood below San
Pablo Ave, above 23rd Ave, to the south of Roosevelt and the
North of MacDonald. The public schools are... well not very good
in my opinion. Crime... not too bad, we have had one robbery,
into a backyard shed which my husband had accidently left
unlocked. We don't get solicitors at the door too often. There
are people who go through the recycling bins early in the
morning on garbage day... but that isn't much different from
many areas. I personally don't let my kids play out in front of
the house unsupervised, but they are young. Will I when they are
older... I don't know... people do tend to speed on the streets.
There have been some wacky/druggie neighbors over the years...
usually in the rental properties. But again... those things
happen in may areas. I have friends who live near campus in
Berkeley, and this is probably comprable (or a little better
than that) in my opinion.
Overall, If you would be happy living in an ''urban'' setting with
all that the phrase connotes, than this is a good affordable
option. If you are looking for idyllic suburban safety in an
urban setting... this is not that.
N&E resident
Just wanted to respond to the comments about West County Schools
and share our experiences with families who are considering
buying or renting in this area.
Most folks buy in this district because they can't afford a home
in the pricier areas with ''better'' schools and they like being
near the amenities that come with living in an urban area
(restaurants that aren't chains, specialty grocery stores, cafes,
bookstores, theatres, etc.--all within a short drive).
We have our child in a West County school (Harding Elementary)
and we've found his teachers to be caring and kind, our school
has an active PTA and parents who are committed to their child's
education (they volunteer in the library, weed the school garden,
organize the events, staff the homework club), and our son is
thriving there.
Works for us.
West County Parent
I know this is a little late, but I'd like to share my research. My
husband and I own a nice house in NE Richmond and have
lived here for several years after living in the North Berkeley
hills area. Recently, we were thinking of relocating (mainly
for schools) and spent many, many Sundays visiting open
houses in the El Cerrito, Kensington and Albany areas.
What we've found has surprised us a bit. Many times we
came home from an endless day of home-hunting and
signed with relief. We suddenly realized that our house was
in as good of an area as many of the ones we'd seen and
sometimes, it was even better! Often we were seeing 700 or
800 sq homes for 500k or more! This would mean a pricey
move to a SMALLER house that may not actually be in the
best location Wow.
So here's what you should know about the area; Many of the
houses here are very much in the style of the Albany/ El
Cerrito homes, but tend to cost less. The houses here are
bit larger and so are the lots with the average being 5000 sq
feet. As for crime it's relatively low. The biggest problem on
our street is on garbage day when people come looking for
recyclables.
The schools, like any of the schools in the district are
average at best. I'm sure there are pros and cons but we've
decided that private schools is the best option for us.
There are many grocery stores to choose from, or you can
take a short drive to Solano ave. or Berkeley as we often do
to shop at Andronico's or Monterey Market etc....
Basically, the quality of life here is very good and there
seems to be a lot of younger home owners coming to the
area (presumably because the prices are still so good here.
One local realtor told us this was the last good, affordable
family neighborhood in the East bay.) as well as a lot of
home painting and renovating going on.
Linda
Just wanted to comment on the statement that every school in the
West County District is average at best.
In my experience, there is a wide range of choices in this
district as in any urban public school district. One elementary
school in the district is considered in the top 10% of all
schools in California (Kensington) and has an extensive waiting
list, another has test scores that exceed the target API (Madera)
and has a waiting list, others serve a more diverse student
population but have excellent teachers so students do very well.
Please don't assume that you know everything about a school
district from what you've read in the newspaper or heard from
others. Unless you've sat in the classroom, gotten to know other
parents/students/met the teachers, you really can't judge whether
a school is excellent, average or poor.
This district is cash-starved right now but we hope that will
change if the new parcel tax passes and in the meantime, there
are many excellent public school classrooms where students are
learning and thriving.
Private school is a good option for many parents and works well
for their family but for many others, public works fine too.
anon
I know this is long after the first post, but I must chime in
to let people know that the North & East neighborhood in
Richmond is one of the last great undiscovered neighborhoods in
the East Bay. After nearly a decade in Oakland, we looked for
months ''only in the hills'' in Richmond, when I was told about
the N&E.
I was surprised how much it looked like Albany/North Berkeley,
but with bigger lots & not fixed up as much. Now, 4 1/2 years
later, we've doubled our investment, seen lots of home &
landscaping improvements, and made great friends with many
neighbors.
My sons have friends all around, lots of cool young families
live here. I couldn't be happier with our home & neighborhood -
we plan on being here forever.
I have to disagree with a previous poster who said to look
south of Roosevelt. Honestly, I didn't know N&E extended south
of Barrett, over to MacDonald, so I was surprised to see that
post. As far as I have known, Clinton Ave. (&Clinton Hill)
would be the ''heart'' of the N&E with a few blocks north & south
from San Pablo down to 23rd being the N&E at its best. I would
hate to think that people would miss a drive-thru in this
neighborhood & miss the opportunity to consider a home where
they could be really happy.
My realtor told me that she is showing in the N&E almost
exclusively to Berkeley/Albany refugees who are surprised to
see what they can afford here. After 4 1/2 years, I can affirm
that the N&E in Richmond is NOT the ghetto, but a calm,
friendly, family-oriented neighborhood.
happy hunting!
March 2004
After almost a year of being outbid for homes in the El Cerrito/
Albany area, my husband and I recently purchased a home in the
Richmond Hills (off of the El Portal exit, a few yards from the
El Sobrante boarder). While the home is just beautiful (and
about $175K less than much smaller homes in El Cerrito) and the
neighborhood is quite lovely, I don't really know that much
about this area of Richmond. I've already consulted the website
and am hoping to learn more. We've done the police check (crime
is relatively low) and our child is an infant so we're not
worried about schools yet. Can anyone who lives in this area
tell me a little bit more: why you love it, things you might
dislike or that I should be wary of. Also, any hidden treasures
(stores, restaurants, parks) in or around this area that I
should know about. Thank you so much.
El Cerrito Transplant
Congratulations on purchasing a home. We too purchased a home
in El Sobrante (nearly 5 years ago) because of the
affordability of the homes and the semi-rural location.
Kennedy Regional Park (San Pablo Ram Road as if you are going
to Orinda) has a great open space for little ones to run or for
the whole family to relax on a blanket. There is also a
playground for older kids. Pinole Valley Park has a nice play
area for younger kids. If you are a SAHM, I can put you in
contact with a group of mom's who meet weekly for playdates. I
am also in contact with another woman who works and has an
infant. We are planning on starting a working mom's play group
once our babies get alittle more mobile!
Cindy
Hi
I moved to richmond (same exit as you) from oakland a couple
years ago. I'm still discovering the area. my main treasures are
places I go to walk for exercise. There is an entrance to wild
cat canyon at the end of Clark road off San Pablo Dam road. This
walk is a bit steep but not too far - a mile up hill and then a
mile back down or you can walk along the ridge all the way to
hayward. so I hear. The other place I like to go it Point Pinole
regional park. I walk all the way out to the end of the wharf
and back, about 4 miles round-trip but relatively flat. both
places are beautiful and not crowded.
san pablo dam road also has lots of restaurants most of which
we have yet to try, but we like the mexican/salvadoran place on
san pablo dam road - I forget the name.
there are also some great picnic areas right on san pablo dam
further down the road on the left. lots of trees and the water...
if you're interested in company for walking I go around 2 pm on
wed, thurs and fridays. let me know, we can meet. I carry my 8
month old on my back usually but strollers are an option at
point pinole.
ilona
We also moved to El Sobrante last year and we LOVE it. We, like many others, could
not afford the Berkeley, Albany area where we were living. Now we have lots of
space, a big garden and a great place to live. It is a beautiful, semi-rural area,
similar to Orinda. Lots of Berkeley ex-patriots. For kids there is a kindergym
program at the Hilltop YMCA and great swimming classes at Canyon Swim center on
San Pablo Dam Road. For restaurants we like Uncle Sam's Chinese buffet and the
Mexican restaurant next door on Valley View. There is also a hidden hole in the wall
mexican place called Taquerma Rodriguez. Delicious and authentic on Appian way.
Also try Biancos Delicatessen accross the road for great meets and cheeses. We
hope you enjoy it here as much as we do.
Liza
Feb 2004
We are house hunting in the bay area, and experiencing all the
joys (ha ha) and frustrations of what our money can get us in a
variety of neighborhoods. We have recently looked at a few
townhomes in the Marina Bay area of Richmond. The Richmond
address frightens us (with a new baby, and watching the news),
but the townhomes were very nice, big, clean, newer, and in our
price range (vs. a fixer-upper ''cottage'' aka ''box'' in Berkeley).
I would love to hear anyones opinions, good and bad, re: this
area and home buying.
Thanks!
hopeful homebuyer
We rented there for about a year, 1997-1998, before buying
elsewhere. It was pleasant enough and we did look at the
houses there & found them very impressive & well-priced. The
main concern was that most of the land is landfill, which may
not be the most stable in an earthquake and who knows what sort
of stuff is in it, as part of this area was industrial. The
land beside it, the old Zeneca property & UC Berkeley property
is full of toxic material such as arsenic and mercury and is
being cleaned.
anon
Against my better judgement, my husband covinced me to look
at ''New Homes'' in Marina Bay, Richmond. I thought he was nuts
but the homes were in our price range. 10 years and 2 babies
later we are still here, enjoying our little secret...that
Marina bay is a little bit of paradise. We walk our dogs and
kids along the bay path enjoying the sun as we watch fog move
over Berkeley and El Cerrito. We are in a little sun belt. It
can be a bit breezy but by inlarge we love it here. I have
never had any problems with crime although a bike was stolen
from down the street last summer. We were as were a few of our
neighbors, able to transfer our children the the Kensington
Hilltop school so that wasn't an issue.
If you have questions about Marina Bay I'd be happy to answer
them.
Susan
We lived in Marina Bay when our son was 1-3 years old and it was
a very happy time for all of us. We would walk along the bay to
a wonderful playground. The entire bay trail there is safe, low
traffic, and offers some of the BEST views or the area. Some of
the communities had pools but the weather there can be a bit
chilly yearround due to the wind whipping off the bay. The
commute is non-existant until you get to the Berkley exits off
80. There was a nice restaurant and small market in the
community, either walking/biking distance from any of the
subdivisions. The homes are newer and in need of very little
TLC!!!!! Last but not least, PRAM -- Point Richmond Association
of Moms. It is a great volunteer run organization based in Pt.
Richmond and I would highly suggest contacting them for
information on schools, playgroups and support!!! www.pram.net
Courtney who misses Marina Bay !
As frustrating as Bay Area housing prices are, I would still
caution you against buying in Richmond, primarily due to the
Chevron Refinery. It was not so long ago that this refinery
dusted the whole community with a toxic catalyst waste. I think
if you can afford to live elsewhere, you should. I suspect that
babies are at higher risk of developing asthma and other
ailments due to the chronic air emissions from the refinery.
anon
I've lived in Marina Bay now for 14 years (yikes!!)and don't
plan on moving until I retire. The crime level is minimal, the
apartments get the brunt of it. (Richmond is a very big city and
what get's on the news typically comes from very specific areas.)
Many people use the Bay Trail and both Marina Bay and Vincent
Park. There are many families with children living here.
My family has made many friends through our time spent at
Vincent Park.
The downside is the school district, although the local school
is in Pt. Richmond and has a terrific parent community growing
into the school (your baby may be the perfect age to benefit)and
a new principal who has been very responsive to the community.
The moms group PRAM is based in Pt.Richmond and is very active
in the community and is becoming active in the school. Another
downside is that home prices have climbed hugely in the last two
years so there's a chance you'd be buying at a highpoint. On
the other hand, where else are there affordable waterfront
communities?
Good luck to you.
Lori
We have lived in Marina Bay for 7 years. The first 4 in what is
now Archstone and the last 3 or so in one of the housing
developments. We are a young couple with a toddler. When we
decided to buy in the area, the reasons on the plus side were:
the neighborhood is quiet and beautiful with the great bay trail
(we do a lot of running and biking), the houses were new and
much more affordable, that is, we felt like we were able to get
more for our money. We are not handy folks and we didn't have
enough money to invest to fix up a place, so getting a new home
is a big plus for us. The downside for us was the school
district. We decided that we were likely to sell within 5 years
before our child will go to school. The landfill was also a
concern. We did a little research to determine our particular
house is on a 'less landfilled' portion of the complex we are in.
The problems with the refineries have been minimal, in my
opinion. We have not noticed any health effects or ongoing
problems with air quality. We have loved living there. There
are a lot of families with small children around us and it is
just a very peaceful, pleasant and beautiful place to live. Day
to day live is great, but you must be realistic about the
downsides and figure out your priorities and how to deal with
them. Good luck!
Happy Marina Bay Resident
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