Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kensington, CA
Considering a move to Kensington, CA? This peaceful, close-knit community of about 5,100 residents boasts a high median home price around $1.65M and average rents near $3,200, reflecting its desirable East Bay location and excellent schools. Enjoy low crime rates, short commutes to Berkeley or San Francisco (average 33 minutes), and a mild Mediterranean climate with 70% sunny days. Kensington stands out for its highly educated population and proximity to top-notch healthcare and universities, making it a welcoming choice for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Kensington, CA
Demographics - Kensington, CA
Kensington is home to approximately 5,100 residents, with a median age of 48.1 and a population density of 4,200 per square mile. The community is predominantly White (68%), but also has a significant Asian presence (nearly 20%) and a notable proportion of non-English speakers (17%). This diverse yet close-knit population fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Population:
5,100
Density:
4,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.1
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
17.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
68.2%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
19.8%
Others:
9.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kensington, CA?
The cost of living in Kensington is significantly above the national average, with a median home value of $1.65 million and average rents around $3,200 per month. Day-to-day expenses, such as groceries and transportation, are also elevated, reflecting the area’s premium East Bay location. High housing costs are balanced by quality amenities and a desirable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$1,650,000
Gross Rent:
$3,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,780
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$5,550
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,200
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
220.0
Grocery:
130.0
Housing:
380.0
Utilities:
105.0
Transportation:
150.0
Health Care:
120.0
Miscellaneous:
125.0
Crime
Is Kensington, CA a safe place to live?
Kensington enjoys a low crime rate, with violent crimes occurring at a rate of just 95 per 100,000 residents and property crimes at 700 per 100,000. Residents have a relatively low chance of being affected by crime, making the area feel safe and secure for families and individuals. This safety is a key factor in the community’s appeal.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
95
Property Crimes Per 100k:
700
Crime Index:
795
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,050
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 143
Weather
What is the weather like in Kensington, CA year-round?
The weather in Kensington features a mild Mediterranean climate, with temperatures ranging from 41°F in winter to mid-70s in summer. Residents enjoy around 70% sunny days each year and moderate rainfall averaging 26 inches, making outdoor activities pleasant year-round. The comfortable climate is a major draw for those seeking an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
74°F
Fall
Min:
49°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
26 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
70%
Neighbors
Kensington’s residents are highly educated, with over 99% holding a high school diploma and nearly 84% possessing a bachelor’s degree or higher. The community boasts a high median household income of $189,500 and a low poverty rate of 4%, reflecting affluence and stability. Most neighbors enjoy convenient commutes and a strong sense of community engagement.
Median Income:
$82,000
Household Income:
$189,500
Family Income:
$210,000
Per Capita Income:
$97,000
Income Male:
$110,000
Income Female:
$87,000
Poverty Rate:
4.0%
Non English Speakers:
17.0%
Rent:
$3,200
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
12.5%
Commute Time:
33 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
99.1%
Bachelors or More:
83.7%
Education
How are the schools in Kensington, CA?
Families in Kensington have access to well-rated public schools, including Kensington Hilltop Elementary, as well as private options and proximity to top universities like UC Berkeley just four miles away. The community’s strong educational resources contribute to a highly educated population and excellent student outcomes. Educational opportunities abound for learners of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Kensington Hilltop Elementary
Street:
90 Highland Blvd
Phone:
510-231-1415
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Private Schools
Name:
St. Jerome Catholic School
Street:
320 San Carlos Ave, El Cerrito
Phone:
510-525-9484
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
University of California, Berkeley
City:
Berkeley
State:
CA
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
45,000
Name:
Contra Costa College
City:
San Pablo
State:
CA
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
9,000
Healthcare
Kensington residents benefit from quick access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Alta Bates Summit Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente nearby. The area offers a high physician-to-population ratio (4.5 per 1,000) and over 97% of residents have health insurance coverage. This ensures comprehensive medical services and peace of mind for families and seniors.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Alta Bates Summit Medical Center
Address:
2450 Ashby Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705
Phone:
(510) 204-4444
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Kaiser Permanente Richmond Medical Center
Address:
901 Nevin Ave, Richmond, CA 94801
Phone:
(510) 307-1500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
4.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.2%
Health Care Index:
79.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kensington, CA?
The housing market in Kensington is competitive, with a median home price of $1.65 million and strong owner occupancy at over 80%. Rental options are limited, with a low vacancy rate of 2.1%, and home values have appreciated by 5.5% in the past year. This stable market attracts buyers seeking long-term investment and community roots.
Median Home Price:
$1,650,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$3,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
2.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.1%
DMV Information
Kensington residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located on Broadway in Oakland. The DMV provides essential services such as licensing, vehicle registration, and title transfers. Residents can access most DMV resources online or by phone for added convenience.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
5100 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94611
Phone:
1-800-777-0133
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.