Explore Castro Valley

Castro Valley, CA Neighborhoods

Overview

Castro Valley, CA Neighborhoods

Castro Valley, CA, is a thriving community in the East Bay region, set amidst California’s coast and rolling hills.

Initially inhabited by the Costanoan and Ohlone tribes, Spanish explorers arrived in the late 18th century. The area later became part of a land grant to Don Guillermo Castro, eventually leading to the town’s name. From chicken ranching, it has evolved into a bedroom community where residents enjoy a peaceful suburban lifestyle while commuting to nearby job centers. Castro Valley, CA, homes for sale are primarily single-family houses and a few condominium complexes. You will love the family-friendly environment, outdoor recreation, and convenient location, making them an attractive place for a tranquil yet connected lifestyle.

Featured image for the Castro Valley CA Neighborhood Guide Page
Credit: Image by Josh Conison | Unsplash

NATURAL BEAUTY AND OUTDOOR RECREATION: Castro Valley sits in a confluence of canyons and the rolling hills of East Bay, so it takes pride in its numerous natural wonders. To the north is Lake Chabot Regional Park, with over 315 acres of water and 1,520 acres of lush parkland for all sorts of outdoor pursuits. Cull Canyon Regional Park offers a different yet equally enriching experience. It’s well-known for its swim lagoon, surrounded by a sandy beach, a popular summer destination for families looking to cool off. Five Canyons Park is a hidden gem showcasing California’s rugged landscape. Although it’s more understated than its counterparts, its trails connect to the larger Bay Area Ridge Trail, providing opportunities for longer expeditions.

QUALITY LOCAL AMENITIES: Castro Valley boasts amenities tailored to serve locals in the best possible ways. Castro Valley Community Park is ideal for families seeking quality time away from screens. From barbecues to baseball and basketball courts to Chanticleer’s Little Theatre and a splash pad for the kids, it caters to diverse interests under one roof. The area also shines as one of the “Bay Area Sweet Spots,” praised for its excellent schools and housing market. In fact, Castro Valley Unified School District was recognized as a California Exemplary District. The revitalized downtown area features an exciting lineup of local businesses and events for residents to enjoy.

DESIRABLE LOCATION: Despite its relatively tranquil and pastoral feel, the community enjoys a convenient location. For professionals working in Oakland, San Francisco, or other Bay Area cities, Castro Valley represents a peaceful suburban retreat without sacrificing access to urban job markets. Its position near Interstate 580 and public transit options, including BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), facilitates easy commutes to and from major employment centers. This translates to improved work-life balance, with less traveling time, allowing for more time at home with family or pursuing personal interests.

Homes in Castro Valley, CA

10 Need to Know Real Estate Facts about Castro Valley, CA

  • The median age of Castro Valley real estate is 52 years.
  • Approximately 25% of homes were built between 1950 and 1959, with continued construction until 2013.
  • Downtown Castro Valley features a variety of architectural styles, including Cape Cod, Ranch-style, and charming bungalows.
  • Homes for sale in Castro Valley, CA, range from $799,000 to $1.9M.
  • While home prices exceed the national average, the houses for sale in Castro Valley, CA, offer a more cost-effective alternative to the expensive housing market of nearby cities like San Francisco.
  • The interior living spaces of homes for sale in Castro Valley range from 836 to 3,100 square feet.
  • Properties in Castro Valley typically sit on lot sizes ranging from 0.05 to 0.18 acres.
  • Home appreciation in Castro Valley has shown a robust increase of 10.9% over the last 12 months, reflecting a strong market demand.
  • The Castro Valley Unified School District serves most of the community, with portions also served by Hayward and San Lorenzo.
  • Castro Valley, CA, enjoys excellent transportation access with Interstate 580, Interstate 238, AC Transit bus services, and a BART station, facilitating convenient travel throughout the Bay Area.
On the map

Castro Valley Map

Lake Chabot is in the northwest region of Castro Valley. San Leandro borders it to the west, Hayward to the south, and Dublin, Pleasanton, and San Ramon to the east. Interstate 580 and Interstate 238 connect to neighboring cities and the broader Bay Area.

Custom Map Infographics of the Castro Valley CA Community Guide Page
Credit: Image by Charles Mortimer | Charles Mortimer
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Meet the locals

Who Lives in Castro Valley, CA

Population

66,324

Median Age

42.4

Median Household Income

$149,018

Median Home Price

$867,200

Median Rent

$2,450 / month

Cost of Living Score

195.5

Number of Households

23,245

Home Ownership Percentage

72.37%

Average Household Size

3.0

Entertainment

Things to do in Castro Valley, CA

Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Area

Enjoy a day of fishing or relax by the seasonal swimming lagoon, perfect for unwinding.

Lake Chabot Regional Park

Explore the serene 315-acre lake, ideal for fishing and boating. There are also trails for hiking, jogging, and biking.

Golden Tee Golfland

Tee off at one of two distinctive mini golf courses and discover family fun with arcade games.

Redwood Canyon Golf Course

With its scenic 18-hole layout, this course offers a delightful blend of challenging play and Bay Area views.

Education

Schools in Castro Valley, CA

School Name
Grades
Admission
Stanton Elementary School
K – 5
Public
Canyon Middle School
6 – 8
Public
Castro Valley High School
9 – 12
Public
Mission Hills School Castro Valley
K – 5
Private
Our Lady of Grace Catholic School
K – 8
Private
Redwood Christian Schools
K – 12
Private