East Bay, San Francisco County
Danville, San Francisco
An affluent town with a charming downtown and excellent schools
Danville is an incorporated town in Contra Costa County, known for its affluent residential character, its charming downtown, and its excellent schools. As one of the most desirable communities in the San Ramon Valley, Danville combines residential neighborhoods with a walkable downtown centered on Hartz Avenue. The town's location in the valley, with Mount Diablo to the east, provides a scenic setting.
History & Local Character
Danville was founded in the 1850s and incorporated as a town in 1982. The area grew as an agricultural community, with orchards and farms shaping its early economy. In the 20th century, Danville developed as an affluent residential community, with large homes and a charming downtown. The town has maintained its residential character and small-town charm.
Neighborhoods & Communities
Downtown Danville centers on Hartz Avenue with shops, restaurants, and a charming, walkable atmosphere. The residential areas include single-family homes in established neighborhoods and hillside properties in the hills to the south and west. The town's downtown is one of the most charming in the East Bay.
Housing & Real Estate
Danville's housing market is one of the most expensive in Contra Costa County, with a mix of single-family homes and hillside estates. Prices are driven by the town's schools, charm, and affluent character. The market is competitive, and the hillside areas command premium prices.
Restaurants & Shopping
Danville's dining scene is centered on downtown and Hartz Avenue, with a range of restaurants from casual to upscale. The town offers American, international, and California cuisine, and the downtown area is walkable and popular for dining and shopping.
Schools & Education
San Ramon Valley Unified School District serves the town with highly regarded public schools. The quality of the schools is a major draw for families and contributes to the town's property values.
Parks & Recreation
Danville maintains numerous parks, including Osage Station Park and the Iron Horse Regional Trail. The town is near Mount Diablo State Park and the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness for hiking and outdoor recreation. The town maintains recreation facilities and neighborhood parks.
Transportation & Accessibility
Danville is along I-680, which runs north-south through the town. The town does not have BART, but the Walnut Creek and Dublin/Pleasanton BART stations are nearby. County Connection operates local buses. The location makes it convenient to the rest of Contra Costa County and the Tri-Valley.
Local Businesses
Danville's economy includes retail, professional services, and small business, with a strong small business community of restaurants, retail shops, and professional services in the downtown area. The town's affluent population supports a range of upscale retail and dining businesses.
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Nearby Attractions
- Downtown Danville
- Mount Diablo State Park (nearby)
- Las Trampas Regional Wilderness
- Iron Horse Regional Trail
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Charming, walkable downtown with shops and restaurants
- Highly regarded public schools
- Affluent, residential character
- Access to Mount Diablo and regional parks
Considerations
- Among the most expensive housing in Contra Costa County
- Traffic on I-680 during peak hours
- No direct BART service
- Some hillside areas are in wildfire risk zones
Danville FAQs
Is Danville part of the Bay Area?
Yes. Danville is in Contra Costa County and is part of the Bay Area, located in the San Ramon Valley.
Are Danville schools good?
Yes. San Ramon Valley Unified School District, which serves Danville, is highly regarded, and the quality of the schools is a major draw for families.
What is downtown Danville known for?
Downtown Danville centers on Hartz Avenue, with shops, restaurants, and a charming, walkable, small-town atmosphere.