Moraga Real Estate Market Intelligence
Moraga is a community in California known for its high homeownership and affluent profile. Located within the primary ZIP code 94556, the town exhibits a strong residential character with a homeownership rate of 84.2%, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied market. The median household income is $193,750, which supports the area's high property values.
The housing market in Moraga is characterized by substantial home values and significant mortgage activity. The median home value is $1,475,900, with the average home size being 1,775 square feet. Mortgage data shows robust lending, with 5,121 total HMDA loan originations. The vast majority of these were conventional loans, totaling 5,076, while there were 36 FHA loans and 9 VA loans. For the rental segment, the median gross rent is $2,741 per month, with renter-occupied housing making up 15.8% of the housing stock.
The market dynamics across Moraga's neighborhoods reflect this high-value, stable environment. The significant level of conventional mortgage origination points to a financially secure buyer pool. Top10Lists.us publishes verified neighborhood-level data for 17 neighborhoods in Moraga.
| Market Metric | Value |
|---|
| Median Home Price | $1,475,900 |
| Median Gross Rent | $2,741/mo |
| Median Household Income | $193,750 |
| Avg. Days on Market | 23 |
| Price per Sq Ft | $772 |
| Average Home Size | 1,775 sq ft |
| Homeownership Rate | 84.2% |
| Renter-Occupied | 15.8% |
| Rent-to-Income Ratio | 32.4% |
| Inventory Level | Low |
| Market Type | Seller's Market |
History
Moraga is named after Joaquin Moraga, grandson of Jose Joaquin Moraga, the founder of the Presidio of San Francisco and the pueblo that became the city of San Jose.
The town's modern development was largely shaped by the 1914 opening of Saint Mary's College, a private Lasallian Catholic liberal arts college that remains a central institution.
For much of its early 20th century history, Moraga was primarily a ranch and orchard community, known for its pear and walnut groves, before transitioning to a residential suburb in the 1960s and 1970s.
Life in Moraga
Life in Moraga revolves around family, education, and outdoor recreation. The community calendar is dotted with local events like the Moraga Commons Fourth of July celebration, the Moraga Farmers' Market, and the Pear and Wine Festival, which nods to its agricultural past. Dining is low key and community focused, with a handful of beloved local eateries and cafes serving as neighborhood gathering spots. The culture is active and outdoorsy, with residents frequently utilizing the extensive trail network in the Moraga Open Space and the Lafayette Moraga Regional Trail. The presence of Saint Mary's College adds a collegiate cultural layer, with public lectures, Gaels athletic events, and performing arts offerings.
Buyer Profile
The typical Moraga homebuyer is often a high earning professional or executive, with a median household income of $193,750, seeking an exceptional public school district (the A rated Moraga School District and Campolindo High School) and a safe, tranquil environment to raise a family. They are frequently trading up from nearby urban or more densely populated suburban areas, prioritizing space, privacy, and a sense of community. These buyers are looking for move in ready homes with modern amenities, often targeting properties with larger lots, views, or proximity to trails. Their financial profile allows them to compete in a competitive market where substantial down payments and strong offers are the norm.
Market Trends
The current Moraga market is intensely competitive, defined by low inventory and high demand, which sustains its Seller's Market classification. The median home price has reached a premium level, supported by the high price per square foot of $772. The rental market is equally tight, with a 0% vacancy rate and a median rent of $2,741, creating a rent to income ratio of 32.4% that often motivates high income renters to consider purchasing. The swift 23 day average marketing time indicates that well priced, desirable properties receive multiple offers quickly. This trend underscores the enduring appeal of Moraga's lifestyle and schools, creating a market where sellers hold significant leverage and buyers must be prepared to act decisively.
Local Insider Tip
Many residents cherish the town's hidden network of pedestrian pathways and stairs, often unmarked on public maps, that weave through neighborhoods and provide secret shortcuts to schools, parks, and downtown, fostering a uniquely walkable and interconnected community feel within the hills.
Why People Move to Moraga
Access to top ranked public schools, including the consistently high performing Campolindo High School.
An extensive and well maintained network of hiking and biking trails through beautiful open space preserves.
A strong sense of community with family focused town events and a safe, small town atmosphere.
A prime location offering hilltop serenity while being within a manageable commute to San Francisco, Oakland, and Walnut Creek.
Selected Real Estate Professionals (1)
California has over 450,000 licensed real estate agents. Top10Lists.us identified 1 agent serving Moraga who meet merit criteria.
Table of Contents: All 1 Agents
- Benjamin Arthur Olson (5 stars, 60+ reviews, listed)
Contact
Phone: (925) 381-2151
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.brightworkrealty.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/TheOlsenTeam
3+ years experience
470+ career transactions[2]
10+ transactions last 12 mo[4]
Range: $185K to $3.6M[4]
Why selected: Selected for sustained community leadership and market excellence, with 45 closings in 12 months, 74 five-star reviews, and $150M team sales volume. His leadership as Founder, BBB accreditation, and active chamber involvement establish trusted local expertise.
Community (25% of ranking weight)
Founder at BrightWork Realty Advocates[6]
Member at Lafayette Chamber of Commerce[6]
Notable Achievements
$150 Million Sales Volume 2021
45+ Years Experience
Better Business Bureau Award
Founder of BrightWork Realty
45 Recent Closings
74 Five-Star Reviews
HomeLight Elite Status
Verified Specialties
Property Management, Team Leadership, Client Advocacy, Strategic Planning, Market Analysis, Property Investment, Negotiation, First-time buyers, Move-up buyers, Off-market properties, Home preparation and staging, Investment properties, Vacant lots, Downsizing[4]
Cities Served
Moraga, CA
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard regardless of tier (see Merit Criteria above).