Albany Homes under $1.5 million

Welcome to Albany, California, a vibrant gem nestled in Alameda County that perfectly balances small-town charm with big-city convenience. Known for its rich history, diverse community, and picturesque landscapes, Albany is an ideal place for families, professionals, and anyone seeking a welcoming atmosphere. With its proximity to Berkeley and Oakland, residents enjoy easy access to a plethora of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences, while still relishing the tranquility of a close-knit community.

Albany boasts an array of parks and recreational facilities, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Albany Bulb and the waterfront provide stunning views and ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking. The city’s commitment to education is evident through its highly-rated schools, ensuring that families can feel confident in their children’s futures.

For those looking to call Albany home, the real estate market offers a delightful surprise: a selection of charming homes under $1.5 million. Whether you’re in search of a cozy bungalow, a modern townhouse, or a spacious family residence, Albany has something to suit every taste and budget. These homes often feature unique architectural styles, lush gardens, and convenient access to local amenities.

With its friendly community, excellent schools, and beautiful surroundings, Albany is not just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. Explore the possibilities today and discover your dream home in this enchanting city!

Newest Albany Homes under $1.5 million

$618,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ ML82061952 MLS

Gorgeous top-floor condo near the Albany waterfront, offering marvelous views of the San Francisco Bay. Large windows and vaulted ceilings create a bright, open, and inviting living space. Both bedrooms are generously sized, and the home includes two full bathrooms, an in-unit washer and dryer, and a wood-burning fireplace with a mantel. Community amenities include: Swimming pool and spa Clubhouse and fitness center Tennis and basketball courts Picnic and barbecue areas Designated parking space in a secure, gated garage Conveniently located near Interstate 80, BART, AC Transit bus stops, Pacific East Mall, El Cerrito Plaza, UC Berkeley, Costco, shopping, dining, and the waterfront.

535 Pierce Street Unit 2310, Albany

$875,000

3 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 41151329 MLS

Gazing out from the rooftop deck over the backyard of 830 Cornell, you will have many difficult decisions ahead. First of all: What’s your favorite part? Is it the gold-streaked sunset over Albany Hill? The sumptuous aromas tempting you to visit Solano’s restaurants? Or is your prize the comfort & seclusion of the private yard & patio right below you? More choices await you. Let’s take a look inside! Behind the charming MacGregor-style facade is the long & spacious living room. Does this include your main dining area, or would you rather use the eat-in kitchen’s abundant breakfast nook? Ah, decisions, decisions! Which of the three spacious bedrooms will be yours? What to cook in the well-appointed & updated kitchen? & out back there are more options: Go up a few steps to visit that private elevated terrace or go down the steps to the covered patio & a secluded bonus space*. This room has laundry hookups, but is much larger than the phrase “laundry room” suggests. It's well suited for hobbies like painting, workouts, crafting, or hosting game nights, but would also make a great office. It looks out onto the greenhouse windows so you can see the backyard with mature fruit trees & its timeless grace. The patio & yard combine for a perfect space for entertainments like birthday parties or a BBQ. Trader Joe’s is slightly closer than Sprouts & Whole Foods, but nothing is out of the way here in Albany. Don’t feel like cooking? More hard choices await! Like, what's the best way to follow up a night out for dinner at Little Star**, Zaytoon, 5 Tacos, Lulu’s Kitchen, or the illustrious Juanita & Maude? Local favorites like As You Wish Froyo, Mr Dewie’s Cashew Creamery? Or perhaps a nip at Best Friends (pet-friendly wine bar), Ocean View Brew Works, The Mallard, or even The Hotsy Totsy! Uh, Oh, are you worried about driving home? Not with your house’s 93 Walk Score® & 98 Bike Score™, you aren’t! It’s all part of the joy of small-town living, like sitting at Hal’s Cafe in the morning & getting to know the kids who troop by with Cornell Elementary’s Walking School Bus, or giving a well-earned cheer to the helpful members of the beloved Blue Glove Crew! All while big city delights & utility are never far away. Come see why Albany is such a special place to call home. The choice is easier than you think. *Buyer to verify use of space. **Apologies to the Zachary’s aficionados; Little Star is less than a block away, & that semolina crust deep dish is tough competition!

830 Cornell Ave, Albany

$1,050,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 41151230 MLS

Warm and light-filled, this classic Albany Victorian is rich with character, beautifully balancing original details with thoughtful updates. Recently remodeled with permits, it honors the home’s history while bringing a fresh, modern sensibility. The gracious front room is anchored by a gas fireplace—an inviting place to curl up on a cool evening. Two bedrooms and a full bath are conveniently located on the main level. The updated kitchen overlooks the peaceful garden, creating a wonderful connection between indoors and out, bringing nature and natural light into the heart of the home. Upstairs, a private third bedroom and full bath are complemented by a versatile bonus space, ideal for a home office, reading nook, or creative retreat. The floor plan creates a wonderful sense of separation, with spaces that allow for both gathering and finding a quiet place of your own. The private backyard is a true garden oasis. Mature landscaping creates a beautiful, peaceful setting for dining, gardening, entertaining, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon outdoors. A huge bonus is the expansive garage beneath the house, extending the full footprint of the home. With plumbing and electrical already in place, there’s abundant room for storage, projects, and tinkering—it’s a maker’s dream with endless possibilities. The location is equally stellar. Just one block from Solano Avenue, favorite neighborhood restaurants, cafés, shops, and everyday conveniences are close at hand. Highly regarded Albany schools, nearby parks and transportation, and easy access to North Berkeley complete an exceptional neighborhood setting.

1231 Marin Ave, Albany

$1,295,000

5 Beds ⋅ 2.5 Baths ⋅ 41151156 MLS

Situated in a desirable Albany neighborhood, this classic 1927 single-family residence blends timeless architectural character with thoughtful modern updates. Offering approximately 1,798 square feet, the versatile 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath floor plan provides flexibility for everyday living, guests, and dedicated work-from-home spaces. Notable improvements include a new roof (2022), exterior stucco and tilework (2019), a newly renovated main-floor bathroom (2026), an updated water heater (2026), and a kitchen resurfaced and updated in 2013. The refinished basement level offers additional functional space, including an office and full bathroom. A long driveway provides convenient off-street parking and leads to a newly fenced backyard and garage suitable for storage, workshop, or creative use. The upstairs bedroom and bathroom capture sweeping views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge. Architect-designed ADU and remodel plans, along with updated permit submissions, are available upon request. Located within the highly regarded Albany Unified School District, the property enjoys convenient access to Solano Avenue’s restaurants and boutique shopping, North Berkeley BART, and major Bay Area transit routes.

973 Curtis St, Albany

$715,000

1 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 41151153 MLS

Original Since 1926 To all you lovers of a project: you’re in luck. 736 Key Route Boulevard has been preserved almost entirely in its original condition, and it’s ready for new owners who will keep preserving it - or re-envision it. It does need quite a bit of work. This charming one-bedroom has its original kitchen, beautiful hardwood floors, and period light fixtures, a few of which we believe still hold bulbs that have been burning since 1926. Lovers of vintage character will find a lot to work with here: the original details, the beautiful floor tiles in the bathroom - or the light that comes through the many windows. Anyone with bigger plans will notice the 3,800 sq ft lot, which offers real flexibility to expand, add an ADU, or reimagine the property entirely. Out back, the yard is full of fruit trees: a Red Delicious apple, quince, plum, orange, and two varieties of fig, plus an olive tree that produces olives when it feels like it. The house is a block and a half from Solano Avenue’s cafés and shops, really the location doesn't get much more convenient.

736 Key Route Blvd, Albany

$1,295,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2.5 Baths ⋅ 41151139 MLS

In 1954, architects Sabaroff & Dow designed this home for a hill they still called Cerrito Hill, the original little hill. More than seventy years later, the mid century modern treehouse on Albany Hill has been redesigned and reimagined to reveal its true potential and character. Every detail of this 3 bedroom 2.5 bathroom home is design forward, every space is move in ready, and the setting is one of the most coveted in Albany. The dramatic silhouette from the street is only the beginning. Step inside and thoughtful design greets you right away, with backlit shadowboxes ready to showcase your most treasured pieces. Just past the open railing, a flex space waits for whatever you dream up: mudroom, home office, or a quiet corner for yoga or Pilates. The main living space opens up with classic mid century lines, tall ceilings, and natural light pouring through an entire wall of windows. Light oak flooring carries you through the level, with nature surrounding you at every turn. This is California indoor outdoor living at its best. Flow from the backyard to the heart of the home, then out to the front deck to take in views from every angle. The kitchen and dining area have been reimagined as a dramatic yet comfortable open concept, made for entertaining, cooking, and everyday living. A center island invites everyone to gather, while stainless steel appliances and generous cabinetry deliver storage that is as functional as it is beautiful. A sleek half bath with a stone counter and mid century touches completes the main level. Downstairs, three comfortable bedrooms await, including a private primary en suite tucked toward the back of the home. It enjoys the same beautiful light and views while offering a true sanctuary at the end of the day. Each bathroom has its own personality, a conversation piece and a wow moment all its own. And yes, the laundry room actually makes you want to do laundry. Life on Albany Hill places you among some of the most unique, character rich homes in the East Bay. Enjoy the celebrated Albany schools and easy access to neighborhood favorites like Little Star Pizza, Tay Tah Café, Oaktown Spice Shop, and Umami Home + Gift on lower Solano, plus Juanita & Maude just around the corner on San Pablo. Commuters will love being close to BART, bus lines, and easy freeway access. Once the little hill. Now the house everyone will be talking about. She has arrived.

953 Hillside Ave, Albany

$349,000

1 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 41150630 MLS ⋅ Gateview BLDG.

Wake up to wide-open views from the eighth floor at Gateview. This updated one bedroom, one bath condominium looks north across the bay, Albany Hill and the hills beyond, with no neighboring tower in the way. Floor-to-ceiling glass opens the living room to a private covered balcony, an easy spot for morning coffee or taking in the San Francisco Bay at sunset. The kitchen and bath have been updated with maple cabinetry and granite counters, and the home has just been refreshed with new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout and fresh designer paint. The generous bedroom has a wide picture window and three large closets for an extensive wardrobe, and an ample entry closet adds room for coats and more. A parking space and separate storage are included. Gateview offers a pool, sauna, gym, tennis courts, clubhouse and 24-hour security, and HOA dues cover cable TV, water, trash and exterior maintenance. Close to Solano Avenue, El Cerrito Plaza BART, the Bay Trail and I-80. Vacant and easy to show.

555 Pierce St Unit 804, Albany

$849,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 41150551 MLS

Welcome home! This recently updated, single-story 2 bedroom, 1 bath home is ideally located less than a block from Solano Avenue and is ready for its next owner. Offering 1,056 square feet of living space, the home also features an attached bonus space, a detached garage with carport, and a long driveway for additional parking. Behind the garage is an additional space already set up with water, sewer, electrical, and gas, offering exciting potential for a future ADU (buyer to verify with City of Albany). Set on a level 4,750 square foot lot with room to expand, this property offers flexibility, opportunity to expand, and an unbeatable location. Come explore the possibilities!

935 Key Route Blvd, Albany

$1,095,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 41150316 MLS

This rare Albany single-family plus ADU offers remarkable flexibility in a close-to-everything location. Your 3-bedroom, 2-full-bath main house is updated and modern-equipped, while retaining its vintage bungalow charm. Your detached studio ADU, built in 2019, adds another full kitchen, full bath, and air conditioning, perfect for guests, extra living space, workspace, or rental income. Both open to a landscaped level yard designed for al fresco dining, entertaining and play. The main house has hardwood floors throughout and two recently renovated full baths, with a large skylit eat-in kitchen that opens to the rear deck and yard. Across the patio are French doors to enter the ADU, with a spacious, openspace design, appealing as an extension of the house, or supporting a family compound living arrangement, yet separate enough to rent for income. With all the important updates and upkeep done for you, move right in and create your dream! Walk or bike to Solano, Gilman, and Hopkins/Monterey attractions. Easy highway, BART and bus access.

1048 Kains Ave, Albany

$499,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 41150260 MLS ⋅ Gateview BLDG.

Welcome home to this beautifully remodeled 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo on the 10th floor, with a one-of-a-kind updated design. West-South west facing windows frame views of the San Francisco Bay from Marin to Oakland. The building offers resort-style amenities, including a swimming pool, sauna, fitness center, and tennis courts, plus 24-hour security for peace of mind. One assigned parking space is included. HOA Dues includes water, garbage, parking, and cable TV/internet. This is an all Electric Building The location is hard to beat. You're minutes from 99 Ranch Market, the Solano Avenue shops and restaurants, Pierce Street Park, and the open shoreline of the Albany Bulb, with easy access to public transportation.

555 Pierce St Unit 1001, Albany

$499,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 41149985 MLS ⋅ Gateview BLDG.

Welcome home to this beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo on the 10th floor, West-facing windows frame views of the San Francisco Bay The building offers resort-style amenities, including a swimming pool, sauna, fitness center, and tennis courts, plus 24-hour security for peace of mind. One assigned parking space is included. HOA Dues include water, garbage, parking, and cable TV/internet. This is an all electric building. The location is hard to beat. You're minutes from 99 Ranch Market, the Solano Avenue shops and restaurants, Pierce Street Park, and the open shoreline of the Albany Bulb, with easy access to public transportation.

555 Pierce St Unit 1033, Albany

$578,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 41149390 MLS ⋅ Bridgewater BLDG.

Welcome to this bright and inviting 2-bed, 2-bath condo offering comfort, convenience, and an exceptional array of community amenities. Freshly painted and new carpeting throughout, this move-in-ready home features newer kitchen and bathroom cabinetry with marble countertops. Additional highlights include a fireplace, in-unit washer/dryer, reverse osmosis water filter system and separate storage room. HOA covers water, sewer, garbage and cable/internet. You only pay for gas/electric! Abundant natural light and partial SF Bay views add to the appeal. TWO assigned parking spaces and eight new recently installed EV charging stations. Enjoy a peaceful, secure community with amenities including a pool, hot tub, fitness center, sauna, clubhouse, and dedicated pet area. Commuting is a breeze with the TransBay bus service to San Francisco picking up and dropping off directly in front of the building. Easy freeway access. El Cerrito BART approx 1-mile away. With its thoughtful updates, two parking spaces, extensive amenities, and convenient location, this condo offers comfortable East Bay living.

545 Pierce St Unit 3204, Albany

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