Lafayette

Overview

Nestled among rolling hills and natural beauty, Lafayette has grown from its agricultural roots into one of the Bay Area’s most sought-after communities. After the post-war building boom and the arrival of BART in the 1970s, Lafayette became a highly desirable destination for those looking for the perfect balance between suburban comfort and easy access to San Francisco.

Today, Lafayette continues to shine with its blend of small-town character and modern sophistication. Known for its top-rated schools, charming downtown, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a community where neighbors know one another and quality of life is front and center.

With tree-shaded neighborhoods, inviting cafés and shops, and abundant parks and trails, Lafayette offers a lifestyle that combines natural serenity with everyday convenience. The real estate landscape is as diverse as the town itself—ranging from classic ranch-style homes and beautifully updated Craftsman residences to elegant estates and contemporary condominiums with high-end amenities.

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• Panoramic scenery and open-air beauty
  
• Mild weather all year long
  
• Strong sense of community
  
• A lively mix of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences
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Lafayette appeals to those who appreciate both sophistication and simplicity. Residents are often professionals and families who enjoy an active, outdoors-focused lifestyle, balanced with arts, culture, and community events. Retirees and long-time locals alike value the peaceful charm and refined elegance that make Lafayette such a special place to call home.

• Locando Positano – Authentic Italian cuisine with a warm, rustic ambiance
• Social Bird – Trendy American bistro, great cocktails and patio dining
• The Hideout – Cozy neighborhood spot with seasonal California fare
• The Coffee Shop – Community favorite for coffee, breakfast, and light bites
• Sideboard – Beloved for its farm-to-table comfort food and relaxed vibe

Schools in Lafayette

One of the biggest reasons families choose Lafayette is its consistently top-performing, highly regarded schools. With a strong emphasis on community and family life, Lafayette’s schools reflect the town’s welcoming, close-knit character.

Elementary Schools

• Happy Valley Elementary – Serving the Happy Valley community
• Lafayette Elementary – Located in and serving the Downtown area
• Springhill Elementary – Covering the Reliez Valley neighborhood
• Burton Valley Elementary – Serving both Burton Valley and Saranap neighborhoods
  

Middle School

• Stanley Middle School (Grades 6–8) – Lafayette’s only middle school, situated in Downtown on School Street. Many students enjoy biking to Stanley along the scenic Lafayette Trail, which winds through town.
  

High Schools

• Acalanes High School – Conveniently located off Highway 24 on Pleasant Hill Road
• Campolindo High School – Situated on Moraga Road, serving the western neighborhoods of Lafayette

Private Schools

• Bentley Upper School – Upper Happy Valley Road, near Highway 24
• White Pony School – South of Highway 24, on the edge of Saranap
• St. Perpetua School – Hamlin Road
• Temple Isaiah Religious School – Mt. Diablo Boulevard

Neighborhoods