In Danville, the charm isn’t curated—it’s lived.
From weekend brunches on sun-drenched patios to boutique strolls that turn into spontaneous wine nights, Downtown Danville blends elevated living with a laid-back spirit. It’s not just a backdrop, it’s the heartbeat of the town. Welcome to Danville, where quiet luxury and small-town soul meet.
Here at the Khrista Jarvis Team, we believe Danville is more than a destination; it's a way of life, and where you live becomes your lifestyle.
Let’s get into what the real Danville lifestyle looks like, and what truly makes where we live and work so special.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Brief History of Danville
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Beyond the Brochure
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The Destination for a Night Out
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Current Danville Restaurants
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A Dream for Boutique Shoppers
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Luxury in Danville’s Premier Neighborhoods
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
FIRST LET'S START WITH A BRIEF HISTORY
Way back in the late 1700s, Danville was home to Native Americans, specifically the Bay Miwok tribe, and later became part of a Mexican land grant.
In 1854, brothers Daniel and Andrew Inman purchased the land using their Gold Rush earnings and named the town “Danville,” also the name of their mother’s hometown in Kentucky. The town quickly grew around agriculture, particularly wheat and cattle ranching, before becoming the refined suburban enclave we live in today.
Despite growth, Danville has preserved its historical soul. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley, housed in a restored 1891 railroad depot, tells the story of the area’s transformation—and it’s centrally located downtown.
DANVILLE BEYOND THE BROCHURE
In a way few towns can, Danville blends history with modern living. Our historic downtown is a perfect example with its century-old architecture houses, trendy boutiques, wine bars, and locally loved eateries. Whether you're strolling through Hartz Avenue or attending a seasonal street fair, you feel the warmth of a small town that still embraces modern comforts and conveniences.
NOTE: The corner of Prospect and Hartz was recently expanded to become a central meet-up spot in the heart of downtown.
In 2025 the town underwent a thoughtful renovation that included widening sidewalks for better pedestrian access, upgrading street lighting, and embedding an embossed oak tree emblem on the street of the main crossway—an homage to the town's iconic oak, adjacent to the new Clock Tower structure.
In fact the Oak tree is so iconic that the town’s annual Lighting of the Old Oak Tree has become a beloved holiday tradition, drawing thousands to downtown Danville each November to kick off the holiday season. The cherished event gathers families, friends, and neighbors to celebrate under twinkling lights, with performances, carriage rides, and festive cheer. It's a picture-perfect tradition that defines the season.
DANVILLE IS THE DESTINATION FOR A NIGHT OUT
From elevated dining at Esin Restaurant and Bar, a longtime local favorite known for its farm-to-table fare and featured in Sunset Magazine, to iconic Bridges Restaurant & Bar—made famous by the movie Mrs. Doubtfire and spotlighted in Wine Spectator—residents enjoy fine dining with a strong sense of place. New additions in 2025 like Kaia’s Island & Kitchen Tiki Bar, a tropical-inspired lounge with creative cocktails and a lively weekend scene, add a fresh vibe to the downtown experience.
DINING FAVORITES IN 2025
Sideboard Neighborhood Kitchen
Farm-to-table comfort food, fresh pastries, and artisan coffee
* Vibe: Warm, communal, and charming—Danville’s go-to breakfast and brunch hub with an outdoor patio that feels like home.
Cocina Hermanas
Authentic street-style Mexican food with bold flavors and fresh ingredients
*Vibe: Casual, lively, and full of character—ideal for a quick, flavorful lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends
Revel Kitchen & Bar
Modern American dishes with a creative twist and standout cocktails
* Vibe: Stylish and energetic, with a modern design and buzzy happy hour crowd.
Cielito Cocina Mexicana
Traditional Mexican dishes with modern flair—think mole, tacos, and tequila flights
*Vibe: Vibrant and festive with colorful decor, perfect for family dinners or celebratory evenings out.
Danville Harvest
Organic California cuisine with global influences, focusing on fresh, local ingredients
*Vibe: Earthy and elegant with farmhouse touches; equally fitting for a healthy lunch or a laid-back dinner.
Locanda Ravello
Authentic Southern Italian classics, handmade pastas, and wood-fired pizza
* Vibe: Rustic elegance with a European flair; great for families, romantic dinners, or casual sophistication.
Photo: Locanda Ravello on Prospect Ave.
A DREAM FOR BOUTIQUE SHOPPERS
Downtown you’ll find home decor, gourmet gifts, and local art in the shops, many of which are independently owned and expertly curated. Whether you're looking for a statement piece, a last-minute gift, or a wardrobe refresh—Danville’s boutique shopping scene offers something distinct from big-box retail.
Flaunt Boutique
Curated women’s fashion, accessories & thoughtful gifts
*A soft-pastel, chic boutique with vintage-chandelier flair and curated designer labels—celebrating 22 years and beloved by college students and local moms alike.
Bliss Danville
On-trend clothing, shoes & accessories
*A hip, stylish boutique stocked with the latest women’s fashion—from graphic tees to designer denim—perfect for trend-conscious shoppers.
Ella J Boutique
Contemporary women’s apparel & jewelry
*A downtown favorite offering curated outfits and accessories that reflect the latest runway styles with local flair
Cottage Jewel
Vintage & artisan wares, antiques & gifts
*A treasure-filled boutique with unique pieces ranging from antique tableware to artisanal jewelry—an explorer’s delight
Danville Chocolates
Gourmet, house-made chocolates & confections
*A sweet staple downtown offering decadent chocolates and treats—ideal for dessert lovers or indulgent gifts
WHAT QUIET LUXURY LOOKS LIKE IN DANVILLE'S PREMIER NEIGHBORHOODS
In Danville homes, luxury isn’t loud. It’s found in the details—elegant architectural lines, spacious lots, private retreats, and the hush of hillside mornings. The neighborhoods of Diablo, Magee Ranch, and Alamo Creek each offer their own refined take on upscale living.
This is what we call "quiet luxury" in Danville—and what you’ll see in current listings. Think gated estates with mature landscaping, chef-grade kitchens with vineyard views, home offices designed for calm productivity, and resort-style pools surrounded by privacy. These are homes built not to impress, but to endure. It’s the kind of everyday elegance that discerning buyers are searching for.
299 Las Quebradas, Alamo, CA 94507
5 BD I 7 BA I 6,169 SQ. FT.
$4,375,000
A Closer Look at Top Neighborhoods in Danville, California
Each Danville neighborhood tells a different story:
Greenbrook: A classic choice for families, Greenbrook offers mid-century and updated homes, walking paths, and access to the Greenbrook Club, with pools, tennis, and community events. Its central location makes it walkable to schools and parks.
Diablo: One of the most prestigious areas, Diablo offers estate-style homes, private lots, and golf course views near the historic Diablo Country Club. It’s known for its exclusivity, natural beauty, and timeless charm.
Alamo Creek: A newer master-planned development with larger homes, open floor plans, community amenities, and scenic trails. Great for growing families seeking space and access to top-rated schools.
Westside Danville: Known for its walkability to downtown, Westside features a mix of custom homes, tree-lined streets, and strong neighborhood connections. It's ideal for those who want the lifestyle of a vibrant downtown just steps away.
Vista Tassajara: Located on the east side of town, this neighborhood offers community pools, family-friendly streets, and a variety of home styles at a slightly more accessible price point. Great for active households and those seeking a close-knit environment.
Ready to explore homes in one of these neighborhoods? Browse our current community listings here.
WHY DANVILLE IS MORE THAN A BEAUTIFUL ZIP CODE
Real estate in Danville is about more than square footage and price per square foot. It's about connection—to the land, to neighbors, and to a pace of life that balances ease with excellence.
Danville offers a rare mix of tranquility and vibrancy, so whether you’re hosting a dinner party with farm-to-table ingredients from the local farmer’s market or enjoying a morning alone hiking with views over the valley, Danville offers moments that make a house feel like home.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ's)
Is Danville, CA a good place to live?
Yes — Danville is consistently ranked among the safest towns in California. According to SafeWise, Danville topped the list as the #1 safest city in California multiple years in a row, most recently again in their 2025 rankings. Violent crime: Approximately 0.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. For property crime, the rate is very low, under 7 incidents per 1,000 residents. These figures rank Danville well below both state and national averages.
In a nutshell, what is Danville known for?
Danville is known for its historic downtown, luxury neighborhoods, nationally recognized blue-ribbon schools, proximity to Mount Diablo, and family-focused lifestyle. Annual events like the Oak Tree Lighting and summer car shows define its small-town charm.
How expensive is it to live in Danville?
The cost of living is high, especially for housing. The median home price is above $1.5M, reflecting Danville’s status as one of the East Bay’s most desirable communities.
What is the average year homes were built in Danville, CA? Is there much new construction?
Most homes in Danville were built in the 1970s and 1980s, giving the town a well-established feel with mature landscaping and spacious lots. The median year of construction for Danville homes is 1979, reflecting the strong suburban development of that period.
While Danville has a few newer developments, new construction is limited today. Less than 1% of the housing stock has been built since 2020. Only 338 homes were built between 2010–2019. Danville prioritizes preserving its charm, so new builds are often limited to infill lots or planned communities.
Is Danville, CA a good town for families?
Absolutely. Danville offers award-winning schools, beautiful parks, safe neighborhoods, and tons of family-friendly community events.
In addition to strong academics, families appreciate the robust youth sports culture, from competitive travel clubs in soccer, baseball, lacrosse, and others to community leagues and recreation programs.
High schools in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District (like San Ramon Valley High and Monte Vista High) offer nationally recognized academic programs, including a wide selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, preparing students for top-tier colleges across the country.
COME SEE FOR YOURSELF
Danville is more than a desirable location—it’s a town of character, comfort, and community.
As the Khrista Jarvis Team, we pride ourselves on helping clients find the perfect lifestyle match—not just a house, but a home within a community that fits your rhythm. We know Danville real estate, not just as experts, but as community members. We live it, love it, and are passionate about helping others experience it.
Feel free to reach out, and let us help you find your place in Danville.
