Pill Hill, Oakland,CA

Pill Hill in Oakland, CA, offers a charming blend of urban convenience and residential tranquility, making it a fantastic choice for those relocating to the city. Known for its quiet streets lined with classic homes and well-maintained gardens, the neighborhood exudes a welcoming vibe that appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike. Residents love the close-knit community feel, where neighbors often greet each other by name and local businesses are supported with pride. The area’s tree-lined avenues and peaceful parks provide a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle, while still being close enough to enjoy the city’s vibrant energy.

One of the standout features of Pill Hill is its proximity to some of Oakland’s key attractions and amenities. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the beautiful Lakeside Park, perfect for picnics, jogging, and weekend strolls. For healthcare professionals and those in the medical field, the neighborhood’s nickname, “Pill Hill,” comes from its concentration of medical facilities, including Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, which is a major employer and healthcare hub in the area. Additionally, the neighborhood offers easy access to a variety of local eateries, coffee shops, and boutique stores that give it a distinctive and welcoming character.

Getting to Downtown Oakland from Pill Hill is a breeze, making it an ideal spot for commuters who work in the city center but prefer a quieter home environment. Depending on traffic, the drive usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes, and public transportation options like buses and BART stations are conveniently nearby, offering a stress-free alternative to driving. This close connection to Downtown means residents can enjoy Oakland’s diverse cultural scene, nightlife, and shopping without having to sacrifice the comfort and charm of their own neighborhood. All in all, Pill Hill combines the best of both worlds for anyone moving to Oakland looking for a balanced lifestyle.

About 27% of the Pill Hill population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 11% 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.

Pill Hill 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 2,457 residents, Pill Hill 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.

Boasting a population density of 14,678, Pill Hill is more densely populated than many other Oakland 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 36, 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 Pill Hill crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Pill Hill, home prices come in around $870,960, 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 Pill Hill 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 $2,347, rental rates in Pill Hill 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 quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Pill Hill. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Pill Hill offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.