Hillside, Albany,CA

Hillside in Albany, CA, is a charming neighborhood nestled in the southeast part of the city that offers an inviting blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Known for its lush greenery and quiet streets, Hillside is perfect for families, professionals, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful community atmosphere while being close to city amenities. Residents love the beautiful parks and recreational spots nearby, such as Albany Hill, which provides scenic hiking trails and stunning views of the Bay Area. The neighborhood’s friendly vibe and well-kept homes make it an appealing choice for those relocating to the East Bay.

One of the standout attractions of the Hillside neighborhood is the Albany Bulb, an innovative outdoor space located just to the north that features unique art installations, walking paths, and sweeping waterfront views. This area is a haven for artists, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a creative escape from the hustle and bustle. Additionally, the neighborhood is within a short drive to the vibrant Solano Avenue, where you’ll find a variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants offering everything from cozy brunch spots to international cuisine. These amenities make everyday living convenient and enjoyable for Hillside residents.

For those who work or enjoy the buzz of city life, Hillside is conveniently located only about 10 minutes northeast of Downtown Albany and roughly 20 minutes from Downtown Berkeley by car or public transit. This close proximity means you can easily access cultural events, theaters, and shopping centers without sacrificing the peacefulness of your home environment. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out for an evening on the town, Hillside offers the perfect balance of accessibility and community charm, making it an ideal neighborhood to call home.

In Hillside, 33% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 33% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Hillside demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 2,173 residents, Hillside is notably smaller than many other Albany neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Boasting a population density of 11,708, Hillside is more densely populated than many other Albany neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 40, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Hillside crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Hillside, home prices come in around $927,957, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Hillside can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,204, rental rates in Hillside are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School ratings in Hillside combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Hillside can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.