Kensington Real Estate

Welcome to Kensington, California – a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Contra Costa County. This charming hillside community offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and vibrant city life, making it an ideal place for families and individuals alike.

Kensington is known for its picturesque streets lined with stately homes, many of which boast stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the surrounding hills. With a population of just over 5,000 residents, the neighborhood exudes a warm, tight-knit atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community. Here, neighbors become friends, and local events bring everyone together, from summer barbecues to holiday celebrations.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Kensington. The area is surrounded by beautiful parks and open spaces, including the expansive Kensington Park, which features playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails. The nearby Tilden Regional Park offers even more opportunities for outdoor adventures, with hiking, biking, and equestrian trails amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Kensington is also conveniently located just a short drive from the bustling city of Berkeley, where residents can enjoy a diverse array of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. The proximity to major highways and public transportation makes commuting to San Francisco and the greater Bay Area a breeze.

Education is a cornerstone of the Kensington community, with highly-rated public schools that prioritize academic excellence and personal growth. Families can feel confident in the quality of education their children will receive here.

If you’re looking for a serene yet vibrant place to call home, Kensington, CA, is the perfect choice. Discover the charm, community spirit, and natural beauty that make this subdivision truly special. Come explore Kensington today!

Newest Listings in Kensington

$1,495,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 41147597 MLS

Built in the 1930s and extensively remodeled for modern living, this enchanting Kensington residence is a masterful blend of vintage Mediterranean architecture and sophisticated contemporary design. Filled with natural light, warmth, and character, the home offers exceptional privacy and a wonderful sense of soul. A charming wooden gate opens to an arched entryway and an inviting front courtyard—a secluded outdoor retreat that sets the tone for the home. Inside, an elegant foyer leads directly to the spacious living room, the heart of the house. An iconic fireplace, dramatic gabled ceiling with period detailing, and tall French doors opening to the courtyard create a setting that is both gracious and wonderfully intimate. The open floor plan flows into a generous dining area and an oversized, sun-filled kitchen, newly custom-designed with state-of-the-art appliances, sophisticated cabinetry, abundant counter space, and exceptional storage. Modern and elegant, the kitchen is designed for both effortless daily living and memorable gatherings. Sliding glass doors connect the kitchen to a spacious and versatile family or guest suite with a closet, full bath, and direct garden access. Upstairs, four additional bedrooms are arranged across thoughtfully separated levels. Two spacious bedrooms share a beautifully updated hall bath, while the upper garden-facing wing offers a heightened sense of privacy. The expansive primary suite is a serene retreat, featuring an enormous walk-in closet, luxurious bath, and sliding doors opening to the deck and gardens. An adjoining sunny office or bedroom provides an ideal workspace, nursery, or private guest room. Outside, the gently rising gardens offer peeks of the Bay and multiple level areas for dining, relaxing, play, and future planting. A gated driveway and attached one-car garage with interior access provide convenient parking and generous storage. Close to Kensington Elementary, the neighborhood shops and cafés of Arlington Avenue and Colusa Circle, and the magnificent trails and open spaces of Tilden and Wildcat Canyon regional parks. With convenient access to UC Berkeley, the greater East Bay, and San Francisco, this distinctive home offers a rare combination of architectural romance, modern comfort, privacy, and connection to nature.

685 Oberlin Ave, Kensington

Listing courtesy of Anja Plowright from The Grubb Co. Inc.. 510-593-8376

$899,000

4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 41147471 MLS

First time on the market in 52 years, this sunny, cheerful home on a quiet street has been maintained but needs much updating. It has great bones and abundant potential so bring your vision to turn this wonderful Mid-Century into a gem! Level-in and almost entirely on one level. LR w/beamed vaulted ceilings, fireplace and built-in shelves. Random plank hardwood floors, spacious eat-in kitchen, attached garage with interior access. Some bay views. Only minutes to shops and restaurants in Kensington and Solano Ave, Colusa Circle, as well as to Tilden Park. Section 1 pest report is only $2715.

206 Colgate, Kensington

Listing courtesy of Nancy L. Noman from Vanguard Properties. 510-388-1000

$899,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 41146957 MLS

Welcome to 19 Sunset, a sophisticated retreat surrounded by beautifully curated gardens. This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home feels like a step into a fairytale. A wood-wrapped entry, illuminated by a custom stained-glass window, opens to an elegant living room with soaring wood ceilings, a cozy fireplace nook, and original wood wainscotting. Just beyond is the well-appointed kitchen with original wood cabinetry, Corian countertops, stainless steel appliances, bar seating, and peaceful views of the front garden. At the heart of the home, a warm den/family room connects to the striking octagonal dining room. Surrounded by glass and featuring a beautiful Zen-inspired stained-glass window, the dining room overlooks the gardens and enjoys dappled light throughout the day. The retreat-like primary bedroom features walls of windows framing lush garden views. A handcrafted circular door connects the suite to the beautifully updated primary bathroom, where midcentury character meets modern amenities. The second bedroom offers a magical split-level design with custom built-ins and rich wood details on the sleeping level, plus a lofted office or sitting area above. Across the hall, the second bathroom retains wonderful original details. Meandering gardens wrap around the home with mature landscaping, a majestic redwood, koi pond, and intimate sitting areas tucked throughout. Peaceful, distinctive, and filled with character, 19 Sunset is a magical retreat just moments from the heart of Kensington.

19 Sunset Dr, Kensington

Listing courtesy of Alissa Custer from District Homes. 510-460-5105

$1,995,000

5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 41146863 MLS

Welcome to 38 Highgate Road, a private five-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath architectural retreat in one of Kensington’s most desirable enclaves. Set down from the street on a secluded 0.38-acre lot, this 3,843-square-foot home blends Mediterranean warmth with iconic Mid-Century character. High-end windows frame unobstructed panoramas of the San Francisco Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, Mt. Tamalpais, and San Francisco skyline. Recently renovated by Berkeley’s Averyl Interior Design, the home is approached through a water-conscious garden and private brick courtyard. Inside, varying-width white oak floors unite the living room, dining room, and newly renovated chef’s kitchen, appointed with Carrara marble countertops, Fireclay tile, and Rejuvenation hardware. A classic brick hallway with rich wood ceilings opens to a tranquil central atrium. Three spacious, view-filled bedrooms and office room anchor this level, including a serene primary suite with a designer bath and double shower. The renovated lower level offers two additional bedrooms, an updated full bath, soundproofing, insulation, and Green Building Supply cork flooring for acoustic comfort. Flexible and private, it is ideal for guests, extended family, a home office, gym, media room, or short/long term rental. The landscaped, level backyard offers ample space for dining, entertaining, play, and relaxation. Its flourishing orchard includes apple, pear, peach, apricot, and fig trees, while a remarkable 75-year-old grapevine-covered trellis provides history, character, and shade. Exceptionally private and peaceful, 38 Highgate is just down the street from Berkeley’s enchanting Blake Garden, moments from shops and neighborhood favorites along The Arlington, and convenient to commuter routes serving Berkeley and San Francisco.

38 Highgate, Kensington

Listing courtesy of Daniel Clark from The Agency. 415-317-0286

$1,599,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 41146212 MLS

Welcome home to 30898 Cambridge Way. A very well maintained home located in Union City's Alvarado neighborhood. This home has 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2,080 sq ft. of living space, Bedroom/Office downstairs and Large primary suite upstairs, A/C prepped. Kitchen has double ovens and a gas cooktop. Freshly painted inside and out, vinyl plank floors, carpet upstairs. Easy access to Hwy 84/880/94, shopping and entertainment. Don't miss out on this beautiful move in ready home.

30898 Cambridge Way, Union City

Listing courtesy of Joe Rosa from Compass. 510-552-0026

$1,198,000

4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 41145452 MLS

A Magical Kensington Retreat Above Cerrito Creek Discover a truly special Kensington home, tucked into a lush natural setting above Cerrito Creek and directly across from the Village shops. This spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a rare blend of privacy, nature, and everyday convenience. So much charm and character fill this home. Almost level in from the welcoming porch that opens to light-filled living spaces, including a vaulted-ceiling living room with a fireplace, an elegant formal dining room with an elevated peaked ceiling, breakfast area, and updated kitchen and baths. The flexible floor plan includes bedrooms on both levels, plus laundry, storage, and bonus space ideal for a home office, guests, or a casual retreat. Outside, 5 interconnected decks extend the living space into a gorgeous woodland-like garden. Mature greenery, peaceful outlooks, and the gentle presence of Cerrito Creek create a wonderfully private setting for dining, entertaining, or relaxing. A heated H2X Fitness swim spa (pool) offers year-round exercise and relaxation, while a charming treehouse adds a touch of whimsy. Enjoy the best of both worlds: a serene, nature-filled retreat with Village shops, cafés, and neighborhood conveniences just across the street. A rare Kensington offering where creekside tranquility meets the ease and charm of Village living.

318 Arlington Ave., Kensington

Listing courtesy of Ruth Frassetto from Compass. 510-697-8606

$995,000

41140061 MLS

Five Contiguous Vacant Lots for sale in Kensington! Totaling just under 1 full acre these five lots offer an unprecedented opportunity to not only build you dream home minutes from Tilden but also possible development potential.

Beloit Ave., Kensington

Listing courtesy of Alyse Pellegrini from Compass. 925-640-8642

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