Living in Lafayette, California

Watch our Lafayette City Tour Video above to explore local neighborhoods, parks, schools, downtown attractions, and the lifestyle that makes Lafayette one of Contra Costa County’s most desirable communities.

Lafayette is one of the most prestigious and sought-after communities in Contra Costa County and the Lamorinda area of the San Francisco East Bay. Known for its highly rated schools, beautiful residential neighborhoods, vibrant downtown district, scenic hillsides, and strong sense of community, Lafayette consistently ranks among the best places to live in Northern California.

Located approximately 20 miles east of San Francisco, Lafayette offers residents a unique combination of suburban living, natural beauty, and convenient Bay Area access. The city is served by BART, Highway 24, and major transportation corridors, making it a popular location for commuters working throughout San Francisco, Oakland, Walnut Creek, and Silicon Valley.

Lafayette is especially known for its excellent public schools, family-oriented neighborhoods, outdoor recreation opportunities, and charming downtown area filled with restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, community events, and local businesses. The city attracts families, professionals, retirees, and investors seeking strong property values, top-tier schools, and a high quality of life.

Housing options range from luxury estates and custom hillside homes to townhomes, condominiums, and established residential neighborhoods. Lafayette’s combination of schools, location, community character, and limited housing inventory continues to support strong housing demand throughout the city.

Whether you’re relocating, purchasing an investment property, searching for a rental home, or looking for professional property management services, Lafayette remains one of the East Bay’s most desirable places to live, work, and invest.

Why People Move to Lafayette

Lafayette continues to attract residents because of its:

• Highly rated public schools
• Family-oriented neighborhoods
• BART and Highway 24 access
• Strong property values
• Vibrant downtown district
• Open space and scenic surroundings
• Hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation
• Community events and festivals
• Central Lamorinda location
• Small-town atmosphere with Bay Area convenience

Burton Valley

One of Lafayette’s most sought-after family neighborhoods known for larger lots, parks, trails, and top-rated schools.

Happy Valley

A prestigious residential area featuring custom homes, mature landscaping, and scenic surroundings

Reliez Valley

Known for larger homes, open space, and a peaceful residential environment.

Downtown Lafayette

Offers walkability to restaurants, shopping, community events, and BART access.

Upper Happy Valley

Features luxury homes, hillside views, and a highly desirable residential setting.

Trail Neighborhood

A popular area offering convenient access to schools, parks, and downtown Lafayette.

Springhill Area

Known for spacious homes, family-friendly living, and proximity to recreation.

Silver Springs

A desirable neighborhood offering attractive homes, open space, and community appeal.

Parks & Recreation

Lafayette offers extensive recreational opportunities with parks, trails, open-space preserves, and community facilities throughout the city.

Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area

One of Lafayette’s most iconic destinations featuring walking trails, fishing, boating, scenic views, and outdoor recreation.

Lafayette Community Park

A popular gathering place offering sports fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and community activities.

Briones Regional Park

Provides extensive hiking, biking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and open-space access.

Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail

A favorite trail connecting Lafayette with neighboring Lamorinda communities.

Plaza Park

Located in Downtown Lafayette and frequently used for community events and public gatherings.

Acalanes Ridge Open Space

Offers hiking trails, scenic views, and access to nature close to residential neighborhoods.

Lafayette Recreation Programs

Residents enjoy year-round recreation classes, sports programs, camps, senior activities, and community events.

Annual Community Events

Lafayette hosts some of Contra Costa County’s most popular community events throughout the year.

Lafayette Art & Wine Festival

One of the largest festivals in Contra Costa County, attracting tens of thousands of visitors with live entertainment, food, wine, art, and local vendors.

Taste of Lafayette

A popular restaurant stroll featuring local dining, entertainment, and community participation.

Rock the Plaza Concert Series

Free summer concerts held in Downtown Lafayette featuring live music and community gatherings.

Lafayette Run for Education

A major annual event supporting local schools and education programs.

Community Thanksgiving Breakfast

A longstanding Lafayette tradition bringing residents together.

It’s a Wonderful Life in Lafayette

A holiday celebration featuring seasonal activities, local businesses, and family-friendly events.

Schools in Lafayette

One of the primary reasons families move to Lafayette is its outstanding educational system.

Schools Districts

Lafayette is primarily served by:

• Lafayette School District
• Acalanes Union High School District
• Las Juntas Elementary School

These districts are widely recognized among the highest-performing public school systems in California.

Elementary Schools

• Burton Valley Elementary School
• Happy Valley Elementary School
• Lafayette Elementary School
• Springhill Elementary School

Middle Schools

• Stanley Middle School

High Schools

• Acalanes High School

Acalanes High School is one of the East Bay’s most respected public high schools and is a major draw for families relocating to Lafayette.

Private School Options

• The Seven Hills School
• Bentley School (nearby)
• Various private and faith-based educational programs

Higher Education Nearby

• Saint Mary’s College
• Diablo Valley College
• University of California Berkeley
• California State University East Bay