Real Estate in the East Bay: Kensington

Shopping district on Arlington Avenue, Kensington
Photo by Kathie Berg: Real Estate in the East Bay

Why Live in Kensington

- quiet, picturesque town
- panoramic Bay and Tilden park views
- very active neighborhood organizations and community activities
- numerous parks and recreational areas
- well regarded Hilltop school (some parts of Kensington)

About Kensington

Kensington, a small, picturesque town situated in the hills adjacent to Berkeley, began its transformation from a remote agricultural community to a residential neighborhood in the 1900's. Today, Kensington spans little over one square mile and has a population of about 5,000. The housing styles are eclectic; most homes were constructed in the 30's and 40's; some mid-century and contemporary styles can also be found; many of the homes boast stunning Bay or Tilden Park views.

While Kensington is a small, peaceful bedroom community, it features two robust shopping districts: along Arlington Avenue and around Colusa Circle. And for a town of its size, Kensington has a vibrant cultural life: lectures, concerts, documentary screenings, poetry- readings and theater performances occur frequently and are enthusiastically supported by the community. Tilden Park, with its numerous activities for children and adults, and Wildcat Canyon Park are frequent destinations for locals seeking outdoor recreation; Blake Gardens, a 10-acre estate maintained by UC-Berkeley´s Department of Landscape Architecture is open to the public and provides a tranquil retreat.

Kensington is part of the West Contra-Costa School District; the local elementary school for some parts of Kensington is the highly regarded Hilltop school.