Oakland & the 94603 ZIP Code – A Community Overview
Flatland Neighborhoods, Strong Roots & East Oakland Energy
The 94603 ZIP code sits in East Oakland, encompassing neighborhoods such as Elmhurst, Coliseum, Brookfield, and surrounding residential pockets. This area represents one of Oakland’s most historically rich and culturally vibrant communities—defined by long-time residents, classic post-war homes, and a strong sense of place.
Unlike Oakland’s hillside neighborhoods, 94603 lies in the city’s flatlands, offering wide streets, practical home layouts, and easy accessibility. The neighborhood has long served as a gateway for families, tradespeople, and professionals seeking attainable homeownership within Oakland while remaining connected to the broader Bay Area.
94603 is experiencing renewed attention as buyers increasingly look east for space, value, and authenticity—without sacrificing transit access or neighborhood identity.
A Resilient, Community-Centered Environment
94603 is shaped by deep community roots. Many residents have lived in the neighborhood for decades, creating a culture built on familiarity, local pride, and mutual support. Block-level connections, family-owned businesses, and neighborhood organizations play a major role in daily life.
Community characteristics include:
Residential streets with long-term owner occupancy
Active churches, community centers, and youth programs
Neighborhood parks and recreation areas serving local families
A practical, down-to-earth atmosphere that values stability and connection
This sense of continuity gives 94603 a grounded feel that resonates with buyers seeking something real and lived-in, rather than transient or overdeveloped.
Schools & Educational Access
Families in 94603 are served by the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD), with a mix of traditional public schools, magnet programs, and charter options throughout East Oakland.
Schools commonly associated with the area include:
Aspire Monarch Academy and other charter programs offering alternative learning models
East Oakland Pride Elementary and surrounding neighborhood schools
Castlemont High School, a historic campus offering multiple academic pathways and specialized programs
Families also benefit from proximity to additional charter schools, trade-focused programs, and community-based educational resources across Oakland and San Leandro.
Architecture & Housing in 94603
Post-War Homes, Bungalows & Practical Design
Much of 94603’s housing stock was built between the 1940s and 1960s, resulting in a neighborhood of straightforward, functional homes designed for working families and long-term living.
Common housing characteristics include:
Single-story and two-story detached homes
Modest bungalows and post-war ranch-style residences
Detached garages and long driveways
Private backyards with room for gardens, entertaining, or expansion
Simple, efficient floor plans that adapt well to modernization
While not architecturally ornate, these homes offer solid construction and flexibility, making them appealing to buyers who value usability and potential.
Renovation & Value-Add Opportunity
One of 94603’s biggest advantages is upside potential. Many buyers are drawn to the opportunity to:
Update kitchens and bathrooms
Improve energy efficiency
Create open-plan living areas
Add ADUs or multi-generational spaces (where zoning allows)
This adaptability makes the ZIP especially attractive to first-time buyers, investors, and homeowners planning long-term occupancy.
94603 Real Estate Market Overview
Market Conditions
The 94603 housing market is among the more accessible entry points into Oakland homeownership, while still offering strong demand fundamentals. As of 2025:
Median home prices generally fall below North Oakland and hillside ZIPs
Single-family homes dominate the housing stock
Well-presented properties move quickly, particularly renovated homes
Buyer interest remains steady due to affordability relative to nearby markets
Homes close to transit corridors and major thoroughfares tend to attract the strongest interest.
Long-Term Outlook
94603’s long-term value is supported by:
Proximity to employment centers throughout Oakland, San Leandro, and Alameda County
Access to major transit infrastructure
Limited large-scale redevelopment, preserving neighborhood scale
Increasing demand for attainable single-family housing
As affordability pressures continue across the Bay Area, neighborhoods like 94603 are increasingly viewed as strategic long-term plays.
Why Buy a Home in 94603?
Lifestyle Advantages
More attainable pricing compared to many Oakland ZIP codes
Detached homes with private outdoor space
Strong community presence and neighborhood continuity
Opportunities to personalize and improve properties over time
A grounded, no-frills residential lifestyle
Excellent Regional Access
Residents of 94603 enjoy convenient access to:
I-880, I-580, and Highway 98th Avenue corridors
Coliseum BART and Amtrak stations
Oakland International Airport
Downtown Oakland, Alameda, and San Leandro
This connectivity makes the area appealing to commuters working throughout the East Bay and beyond.
Local Amenities & Everyday Convenience
94603 offers practical, everyday amenities that support daily life:
Neighborhood parks and recreation spaces
Local shopping centers, grocery stores, and essential services
Proximity to Coliseum complex and surrounding redevelopment activity
Easy access to Alameda and San Leandro retail corridors
Community centers, libraries, and faith-based organizations
While the area is more residential than commercial, its central location ensures that major amenities are always within reach.
The Boyenga Team – Your East Oakland Home Experts for 94603
Eric and Janelle Boyenga of the Boyenga Team at Compass work with buyers and sellers across Oakland neighborhoods where value, location, and long-term potential intersect—including 94603.
Their approach includes:
Clear guidance for first-time and move-up buyers
Insight into renovation potential and resale strategy
Neighborhood-level market analysis
Access to Compass Private Exclusives and off-market listings
Honest, data-driven advice tailored to each client’s goals
Call to Action
Thinking about buying or selling in Oakland’s 94603 ZIP code?
Connect with Eric & Janelle Boyenga for:
Early access to new and off-market listings
Guidance on renovation and value strategies
Personalized neighborhood insights
Confident pricing and negotiation support
Stay informed:
Sign up for 94603 Home Alerts to receive updates on:
New listings
Market activity
Price trends
Neighborhood changes