What's it like Living in Kensington, CA - Real Estate, Culture and Local Statistics

In the early 19th century, a large land grant, including the Kensington region, was given by the Republic of Mexico to Francisco Castro, a veteran of the Mexican Army. Over the next century, the fertile land drew farmers and dairy men. In 1917, when El Cerrito became incorporated, the people of the Kensington region demanded to remain unincorporated. The farmers and dairy men had no interest in paying taxes for improvements to the larger neighboring cities that they rarely visited. Kensington successfully maintained non-incorporation and in 1911 the city was officially named.

As with most of the smaller cities and towns in the East Bay, the combination of the 1906 earthquake and the 1923 Berkeley fire compelled displaced citizens to look for new homes in more suburban, safer settings. Population swelled in Kensington during this period, but even into the present, Kensington has remained an unincorporated area.

Kensington Today
Kensington is quiet and peaceful. Located just minutes from El Cerrito and Berkeley, it offers a serene, suburban home base with easy access to the cosmopolitan culture of the larger East Bay cities. The atmosphere of Kensington is tranquil, mature, and reserved. It is celebrated as the U.S. city with the highest per capita concentration of Nobel laureates. Kensington has a close knit, community feeling and locals take pride in their sweeping views of the Golden Gate bridge and the San Francisco Bay.

Architectural Styles Prevalent in Kensington Homes
Kensington Circle is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in this city, with its shopping center, entrance to Tilden Regional Park, and beautiful hillside homes. Exceptionally tasteful residences are available in the following architectural styles:

• Mediterranean
• Tudor
• Contemporary
• Traditional

Property values are on a par with those of many neighborhoods in Berkeley and Oakland, and offer all the charms of a smaller city. View a neighborhood map for further geographic information.

Things To Do in Kensington, CA
Without a doubt, Tilden Regional Park, measuring some 3 3/4 miles, is Kensington's most valuable community resource. Easily accessed by car, AC Transit buses, bicycle or foot, it is a wonderful place for hiking, cycling, picnic-ing and enjoying the natural habitat. Filled with valleys and trees, it provides a perfect respite from city living, and offers panoramic views of San Francisco Bay and Mount Diablo.

Blake Garden is a favorite destination for local lovers of beauty. Located at 70 Rincon Road in Kensington, this botanical garden belongs to the University of California, and is the site of Blake House, the residence of the University's president. The garden is comprised of over 1,200 species of plants, a water garden, pools, and a Mediterranean garden. It is open to the public on weekdays and admission is free.

Kensington has a fabulous farmer's market on Sunday mornings at 303 Arlington Avenue. Other shopping destinations include Colusa Market, Narsai's Specialty Foods, Feet of Dreams Shoe Store, Ace Hardware, and the lovely Kensington Village Flower and Gift Shop. There are delis, bistros, cafes and restaurants within Kensington, and, some of the world's finest and most ethnically diverse cuisine is just minutes away in Berkeley.

Things To Do With Kids in Kensington, CA
In addition to many fine adult programs, storytime for toddlers and families plus arts, crafts, and games for older youths are available year-round at the Kensington Public Library. The city has active chapters of the Girl and Boy Scouts. The Albany Bobcats Youth Football League offers exercise and fun for active children.

The Kensington Community Council Summer Day Camp, centered at 59 Arlington Avenue, provides wonderful field trips and activities for elementary school age children. Hiking, games, arts and crafts with talented instructors and day trips to thrilling destinations like the Exploratorium are part of the KCC Summer Day Camp Program.

Kensington's elementary schools are very highly rated. Learn more about the West Contra Costa Unified School District.

Places of Worship in Kensington
Many faiths are present in the city of Kensington. The two following churches are available to the community within the city:

• Arlington Community Church - 52 Arlington Avenue, Kensington, CA
• Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley - One Lawson Road, Kensington, CA

Because of its central location, living in Kensington provides convenient access to places of worship for all faiths in the neighboring East Bay cities. AC Transit buses or BART will take you quickly to Berkeley or Oakland with a broad selection of Churches, Temples, Synagogues, and other places of worship.

Buying or Selling a Home in Kensington, California
With its quiet atmosphere, highly rated elementary schools, and incomparable Bay views, Kensington homes are extremely desirable. As a local man with strong community ties, I will help you find the home of your dreams in this city or assist you in realizing maximum profits from selling your current Kensington home. Email me or call me today at 510-339-0400, Ext.265 to learn how I can make selling or buying your Kensington home a pleasure.