Merriwood, Oakland,CA

If you’re considering a move to Oakland, Merriwood is a charming neighborhood in the southeast part of the city that offers a welcoming community vibe paired with convenient amenities. This area is popular among families and young professionals alike, thanks to its quiet residential streets and easy access to schools, parks, and local shops. One of Merriwood’s standout attractions is the Merriwood Community Park, a lovely green space perfect for weekend picnics, jogging, or letting the kids play. The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes add to the overall appeal, making it a peaceful retreat while still being close to the city’s bustle.

Living in Merriwood means you’re never far from the vibrant culture and excitement of Oakland’s downtown area, which is just a short drive away—typically around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This proximity allows residents to easily enjoy everything from gourmet dining and trendy cafes to art galleries and live music venues. For those who commute, Merriwood’s location provides convenient access to major highways and public transit options, making it a practical choice for professionals working in downtown Oakland or even across the Bay. Plus, the neighborhood often hosts local events and farmers markets that foster a strong sense of community and connection among residents.

Merriwood also benefits from being near several shopping centers and local businesses, including cozy coffee shops and family-owned restaurants that give the area its unique character. The neighborhood’s schools are well regarded, making it a great spot for families prioritizing education. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful residential neighborhood with easy access to urban amenities or a place where you can get to know your neighbors and enjoy outdoor activities, Merriwood offers a balanced lifestyle. Its combination of suburban comfort and city convenience makes it an attractive option for anyone relocating to Oakland.

In Merriwood, 28% 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 28% 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.

Merriwood 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 3,619 residents, Merriwood is notably smaller than many other Oakland 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.

Merriwood has a population density of 2,808, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Oakland neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 47, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Merriwood 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 Merriwood, home prices come in around $1,466,992, 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 Merriwood 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 $3,352, rental rates in Merriwood 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 Merriwood 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 Merriwood 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.