Welcome to Lafayette
Thriving suburb with rich and diverse lifestyle
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Tree-lined streets. A distinctive, bustling downtown. Plenty of room to roam. Sound like the perfect blend of suburban, urban, and rural living? Welcome home to Lafayette.
Situated at the midway point between Berkeley Hills to the west and Walnut Creek to the east, Lafayette merges a number of distinctive scenes to create a unique experience.
Originally settled in the mid-1800s, Lafayette served as a rural outpost for those on the way to San Francisco. Over the past half-century, the city has blossomed, developing an identity all its own—tight-knit enclaves and an energetic business district surrounded by some of central California's best scenery.
Lafayette housing is equally diverse, characterized by palatial estates and mansions, classic ranch-style residences with modern updates, and thoughtfully designed California Craftsman homes. There are also well-appointed luxury condos for those seeking high-end communal living.
What to Love
Gorgeous climate year-round
Picturesque rolling hills and abundant natural wilderness
Strongly supported art and cultural scene
Close-knit and welcoming community vibe
People & Lifestyle
To call Lafayette a suburb of San Francisco would be a disservice to the area's independent spirit. Though commuters live in close proximity to the big-city amenities of San Francisco, the distance allows for a retreat from the hustle and bustle. Residents truly have the best of both worlds.
Lafayette is full of successful individuals who subscribe to the work-hard-play-hard mantra, and the median household income is approximately $152,000. The population is also well-educated—39% of adults have a bachelor's degree, and another 33% possess a master's or higher.
There's a healthy population of retirees as well—both those who planted roots and never left and ones who sought a laid-back, outdoorsy lifestyle after retiring—with nearly 20% of the population 65 or older.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
One of the most significant features of Lafayette is its admired, highly walkable downtown. Major redevelopment on Mt. Diablo Boulevard between Acalanes Road and Pleasant Hill Road produced the heartbeat of Lamorinda (the collective East Bay area that includes Lafayette, Orinda, and Moraga).
Restaurant row along the main thoroughfare features over 35 eateries and an abundance of boutiques and cafes. The main activity concentrates around Lafayette Circle. Highlights include Italian favorite Positano and neighborhood comfort food staple Millie's Kitchen. Specialty shops include the dazzling Orchard Nursery, Lazy K & Atrium at the western end of Mt. Diablo.
Things to Do
Due to its agricultural heritage and exceptional topography, the outdoors play a central role in crafting the city's personality. Over 25 miles of trails can be found within city limits, including those for walking, hiking, jogging, biking, and horseback riding. A portion of the trail system also features part of the 17.5-mile-long Lamorinda Trail Loop, which encompasses the communities of Orinda to the west and Moraga to the south.
The popular Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area—also located off of Mt. Diablo Boulevard just east of downtown—is a treasured outdoor escape. The Res Run for Education is a must for runners, walkers, and families.
Lafayette is a community committed to the arts, with numerous local organizations promoting art, music, and drama. The most celebrated among these is the Library & Learning Center, with exhibits featuring the works of local artists. The city also showcases public art throughout the town and plays host to the annual Lafayette Art & Wine Festival.
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Schools
Both the Lafayette School District and the Acalanes Union High School District serve the city of Lafayette. Several excellent schools can be found within the city boundaries, including:
Happy Valley Elementary School, K-5
Lafayette Elementary School, K-5
Springhill Elementary School, K-5
Stanley Middle School, 6-8 (well-known for its music program)
Acalanes High School, 9-12
