Considering its proximity to Oakland and San Francisco, one might assume that Orinda is just another ordinary metro suburb—but rest assured, this vibrant little town is anything but ordinary.

Set at the eastern base of the Berkeley Hills, Orinda gained popularity as a favorite summertime retreat for the San Francisco elite. After the opening of the two original Caldecott Tunnel bores, the town’s population began to grow steadily.  

On either side of Highway 24 (which bisects the community), there are two distinctive lifestyles. To the north, neighborhoods Sundown Terrace, Orinda Downs, and Charles Hill are hidden away amongst the rolling, tree-covered hills. In the south, a sparse, more wide-open atmosphere awaits. Equally as spectacular as what’s above Highway 24, the southern region features the master-planned Wilder community and the hillside retreat of Lost Valley.

What to Love

• Large hillside lots with spectacular views

• Two quaint downtown districts

• Remote and village-like

• Close to major destinations

People & Lifestyle

Orinda’s current population hovers around 20,000 residents, and the city retains its reputation as an affluent escape from the rigors of the big city. Median household income is $186,000, and the population is highly educated—an extraordinary 81% of adults hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or higher. 

Orinda is a place where many come to lay down roots and raise a family. A fourth of those living in Orinda are under the age of 18, and over half are between the ages of 25 and 64.

Orinda’s lifestyle and ambiance—rolling hills, tree-lined streets, and the feeling of a remote, tucked-away village—is indeed a significant selling point. However, that lifestyle also comes with the convenience of being close to it all. You remain within arm’s reach of major destinations: 30 minutes to San Francisco, an hour to Silicon Valley, and 90 minutes to California Wine Country.