East Bay, San Francisco County
Moraga, San Francisco
A small town with a college and a rural, residential character
Moraga is an incorporated town in Contra Costa County, known for its small-town character, its rural feel, and Saint Mary's College of California. As a community in the Lafayette Ridge area, Moraga combines residential neighborhoods with open space and hiking trails. The town's location in the hills provides a quiet, rural atmosphere within commuting distance of San Francisco and Oakland.
History & Local Character
Moraga was incorporated as a town in 1974. The area had been a rural and agricultural community, and the town incorporated to preserve its character. The town has grown as a residential community, with Saint Mary's College of California as a central institution. The town has maintained its rural, residential character.
Neighborhoods & Communities
Moraga's neighborhoods are primarily residential, with single-family homes on tree-lined streets and some hillside properties. The town has a small commercial area along Moraga Way and Rheem Boulevard, with shops and restaurants. The Rheem area, centered on the former Rheem Theatre, is a commercial and residential district.
Housing & Real Estate
Moraga's housing market is expensive, with a mix of single-family homes and some newer construction. Prices are driven by the town's schools, rural character, and location. The market is competitive, and inventory is often limited.
Restaurants & Shopping
Moraga has limited dining options within the town, as it is primarily residential. The commercial areas along Moraga Way and Rheem Boulevard offer a few restaurants and cafes. Residents often dine in neighboring Lafayette, Orinda, or other nearby communities.
Schools & Education
Moraga School District and Acalanes Union High School District serve the town with highly regarded public schools. Saint Mary's College of California is a major institution in the town, providing higher education and contributing to the community.
Parks & Recreation
Moraga maintains several parks, including the Moraga Commons Park and the Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail. The town is near the Briones Regional Park and the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness for hiking and outdoor recreation.
Transportation & Accessibility
Moraga does not have BART, but the Lafayette and Orinda BART stations are nearby. The town is along Highway 24, which connects to the rest of Contra Costa County and the Bay Area. County Connection operates local buses.
Local Businesses
Moraga's economy is primarily residential, with limited commercial activity. The town supports a small number of businesses in the commercial areas. Saint Mary's College is a major employer. Residents rely on neighboring communities for most commercial needs.
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Nearby Attractions
- Saint Mary's College of California
- Moraga Commons Park
- Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail
- Briones Regional Park (nearby)
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Small-town, rural character
- Highly regarded public schools
- Saint Mary's College of California
- Access to regional parks and trails
Considerations
- High housing prices
- Limited commercial and dining options
- No direct BART service
- Some hillside areas are in wildfire risk zones
Moraga FAQs
Is Moraga part of the Bay Area?
Yes. Moraga is in Contra Costa County and is part of the Bay Area, located in the Lafayette Ridge area.
What is Saint Mary's College?
Saint Mary's College of California is a private liberal arts college in Moraga, and is a central institution in the town.
Does Moraga have BART?
No. Moraga does not have a BART station, but the Lafayette and Orinda BART stations are nearby.