Oakland & the 94619 ZIP Code – A Community Overview

Rolling Hills, Tree-Lined Streets & Neighborhood-First Living

The 94619 ZIP code sits in southeast Oakland, encompassing beloved neighborhoods such as Laurel, Redwood Heights, Upper Millsmont, and parts of Maxwell Park. This area is often described as one of Oakland’s most livable residential pockets—offering a blend of hillside scenery, walkable commercial corridors, and a grounded, community-oriented atmosphere.

Geographically, 94619 rises gently from the flatter avenues near MacArthur Boulevard into quieter hillside streets where homes enjoy added privacy, greenery, and occasional Bay or canyon views. The neighborhood feels removed from the bustle of central Oakland, yet remains deeply connected to the city’s cultural and economic core.

Residents are drawn to 94619 for its approachable scale, architectural charm, and everyday ease—a place where neighbors greet each other, local shops feel personal, and homes are designed for real life.

A Strong, Connected Community with Local Character

94619 is known for its tight-knit, neighborly culture. Longtime residents and newer arrivals alike contribute to a sense of mutual investment in the area’s schools, streets, and small businesses. The community has a distinctly local feel—less transient, more rooted.

Defining community traits include:

  • Laurel District commercial corridor, one of Oakland’s most vibrant neighborhood shopping streets

  • Independent restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, and boutiques

  • Active neighborhood associations and improvement groups

  • Streets designed for walking, biking, and everyday interaction

This combination of community pride and accessibility gives 94619 a welcoming, lived-in quality that resonates with families, creatives, and professionals.

Schools & Education

Families in 94619 are served by the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) and benefit from access to both traditional public schools and charter options.

Schools commonly associated with the area include:

  • Redwood Heights Elementary School – Known for strong community involvement and neighborhood identity

  • Laurel Elementary School – A cornerstone of the Laurel District with active parent participation

  • Montera Middle School – A highly regarded middle school serving the hills and surrounding neighborhoods

  • Castlemont High School and other nearby high school options offering varied academic pathways

In addition, families often explore charter schools and private institutions throughout Oakland and the East Bay, easily accessible from 94619.

Architecture & Housing in 94619

Bungalows, Mid-Century Ranch Homes & Hillside Residences

94619 features a diverse but cohesive housing stock, with homes built primarily from the 1920s through the 1960s, and later hillside development expanding into the 1970s and 1980s.

Common architectural styles include:

  • Craftsman and California bungalows with original details

  • Mid-century ranch homes emphasizing horizontal lines and functional layouts

  • Split-level hillside homes designed to follow the terrain

  • Stucco, wood-siding, and brick exteriors reflecting multiple eras

  • Homes with garages, driveways, and usable outdoor space

Many properties strike a balance between character and practicality—offering charm without excessive ornamentation.

Indoor-Outdoor Living & Flexibility

Lot sizes in 94619 are generally generous, particularly compared to denser parts of Oakland. This allows for:

  • Rear decks and patios for entertaining

  • Gardens, play spaces, or quiet outdoor retreats

  • Home office conversions or bonus rooms

  • ADUs or in-law units (where zoning allows)

Buyers are especially drawn to homes that combine classic design with the ability to modernize and adapt over time.

Natural Surroundings & Outdoor Access

One of 94619’s standout features is its proximity to open space and natural corridors.

Residents enjoy easy access to:

  • Joaquin Miller Park, with wooded trails and scenic overlooks

  • Nearby canyon greenbelts and hillside walking routes

  • Tree-lined residential streets that soften the urban environment

  • Cooler temperatures and breezes in elevated areas

This close relationship with nature enhances daily life and contributes to the neighborhood’s calm, residential feel.

94619 Real Estate Market Overview

Market Snapshot

The 94619 housing market is consistently active, driven by its livability, location, and relative value compared to Oakland’s northern neighborhoods. As of 2025:

  • Median home prices typically sit below Montclair and Rockridge while outperforming flatter East Oakland ZIPs

  • Homes near the Laurel District and hillside pockets attract strong buyer interest

  • Updated properties sell more quickly, though fixers remain popular with value-focused buyers

  • Inventory turnover is moderate, reflecting long-term ownership patterns

The market attracts a mix of first-time buyers, move-up households, and long-term residents.

Long-Term Value Drivers

94619’s long-term appeal is supported by:

  • Strong neighborhood identity and walkability

  • Access to respected schools like Montera Middle School

  • Limited large-scale development preserving neighborhood scale

  • Proximity to major employment centers across Oakland and the East Bay

  • Continued interest in Oakland’s hillside and near-hills neighborhoods

As buyers increasingly prioritize livability and community, 94619 remains well positioned.

Why Buy a Home in 94619?

Lifestyle Benefits

  • A neighborhood-centric lifestyle with walkable amenities

  • Architectural charm without excessive density

  • Access to parks, trails, and hillside scenery

  • Strong community engagement and local pride

  • Homes designed for long-term living and personalization

Central Yet Calm Location

Living in 94619 provides convenient access to:

  • Highway 13, I-580, and I-880

  • Downtown Oakland, Alameda, and San Leandro

  • BART stations in Fruitvale and Coliseum areas

  • Laurel District shopping and dining right outside your door

Residents enjoy a sense of retreat while staying closely connected to the broader Bay Area.

Amenities, Dining & Daily Convenience

Life in 94619 is supported by a rich mix of everyday amenities:

  • Laurel District restaurants and cafes, known for quality and variety

  • Neighborhood grocery stores and specialty shops

  • Community parks, libraries, and recreation centers

  • Easy access to cultural events and East Bay arts

  • Short drives to Redwood Regional Park and Skyline Boulevard

The area supports both routine convenience and weekend exploration.

The Boyenga Team – Your Oakland Hills & Neighborhood Experts for 94619

Eric and Janelle Boyenga of the Boyenga Team at Compass specialize in Oakland neighborhoods where community, character, and long-term value intersect—including the diverse micro-markets of 94619.

Their strengths include:

  • Deep insight into near-hill vs. hillside neighborhoods

  • Experience evaluating renovation and expansion potential

  • Strategic pricing and marketing expertise

  • Access to Compass Private Exclusives and off-market opportunities

  • Thoughtful, client-focused representation

Call to Action

Exploring homes in Oakland’s 94619 ZIP code?

Connect with Eric & Janelle Boyenga for:

  • Early access to Laurel and Redwood Heights listings

  • Guidance on neighborhood selection and home potential

  • Personalized tours and market insights

  • Confident negotiation and transaction support

Stay informed:
Sign up for 94619 Home Alerts to receive updates on:

  • New listings

  • Market activity

  • Price trends

  • Neighborhood developments