If you’re considering a move to Berkeley, California, you’re likely wondering where to settle. Berkeley is known for its artsy charm, walkability, and proximity to both nature and urban amenities, but the city offers a diverse mix of neighborhoods, each catering to different lifestyles. This guide covers the best neighborhoods in Berkeley for new residents based on affordability, walkability, family-friendliness, and overall livability.

1. North Berkeley: Balanced, Historic, and Walkable

North Berkeley offers the quintessential Berkeley experience: leafy streets lined with Victorian and Craftsman homes, a strong community feel, and easy access to shopping and parks. This area is popular with families and professionals seeking a quieter alternative to student-centered zones. 

Home values reflect its desirability, the average home sits around $1.48 million, and most are roomy single-family homes. Despite the price, North Berkeley scores high for those seeking a residential, stable area with charm and practicality.

Best for: Families, professionals, and anyone who values walkability, peace, and a strong community vibe.

2. West Berkeley (North): Affordable Urban-Suburban Mix

For new residents looking for affordable neighborhoods in Berkeley (relatively speaking), West Berkeley (especially its northern section) offers a compelling mix of value and lifestyle. This neighborhood blends industrial character with residential charm, delivering access to popular shops, eateries, and art spaces. 

With a median home value around $985,000 and median rent under $2,300, it’s more budget-friendly than Berkeley’s northern neighborhoods. The vibe is laid-back yet connected, making it ideal for young professionals and first-time buyers.

Best for: Budget-conscious newcomers, commuters, or professionals who want culture, walkability, and slightly lower housing costs.

3. Southside: Dense, Dynamic, and Walkable

Directly south of UC Berkeley, Southside offers the city’s most energetic and student-focused environment. Think pedestrian-friendly streets, countless cafés, cheap eats, and 24/7 activity. Housing is dominated by rentals and apartments, making it accessible to students, younger professionals, and those wanting to be immersed in campus life. 

With a population density of around 30,000 per square mile and a very young median age, this area thrives on movement and energy, though it’s probably less attractive to families seeking quietude.

Best for: Students and young renters who want to be in the heart of the action and close to campus.

4. Northbrae: Leafy, Family-Friendly, and Serene

If your ideal home is set on a peaceful street with mature trees and garden space, Northbrae may be the answer. This neighborhood was intentionally planned as a “garden suburb”, and it shows. 

Northbrae is one of the best family-friendly neighborhoods Berkeley has to offer, thanks to stable properties, quiet streets, and access to parks and schools. It’s also conveniently near commercial corridors like Solano Avenue, giving you suburban calm with just enough city edge.

Best for: Families, couples, or professionals seeking long-term homes in a serene, suburban-feeling part of Berkeley.

Choosing the Right Fit

Berkeley’s varied neighborhoods support a range of lifestyles. Here’s a quick reference for choosing the right one based on your priorities:

• Student or want campus life: Southside
• Young professional wanting shops and reasonable rent: West Berkeley (North)
• Prefer charm, walkability, and family vibe: North Berkeley
• Want quiet suburbia with access to city life: Northbrae

Things to Consider Before Moving

• Cost: Even the more “affordable” areas can be expensive compared to other U.S. cities.
• Noise: Areas near campus (like Southside) have higher turnover and noise levels.
• Inventory: Neighborhoods like Northbrae and North Berkeley face high demand and limited housing supply.

Regardless of where you choose, one constant is the need for a reliable moving experience. To make your transition smoother, consider working with professional movers in Berkeley who know the local streets and neighborhoods inside and out.

Berkeley’s neighborhoods each tell their own story, your mission is to find the chapter that fits yours. Whether you’re drawn to leafy hills or lively streets, Berkeley’s mosaic has a place for everyone.