Brentwood and Oakley in 2026: East Contra Costa's Fast-Growing Communities

Brentwood and Oakley sit at the eastern edge of Contra Costa County along the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, and together they form one of the Bay Area's most active markets for new homes and first-time buyers. Brentwood's median sale price lands roughly between $750,000 and $890,000 depending on the quarter and the source, while Oakley comes in around $635,000 to $685,000, making it one of the most accessible entry points in the region.

How do the 2026 price points compare?

Early 2026 MLS reports put Brentwood's median near $865,000 to $887,500, while Redfin and Zillow show a softer $746,000 to $805,000, so the practical range is roughly $750,000 to $890,000. Oakley is more consistent: Redfin shows about $635,000, and county sales data lands near $667,000 to $685,000. That gap of $120,000 to $150,000 is often the difference between a smaller first mortgage and a larger one, or between a resale home and a brand-new build.

What new development is underway?

Brentwood's new-home pipeline includes Orchard Grove by Shea Homes from about $1.15 million, Apricot Estates by Trumark Homes from about $1.17 million, and The Meadows at Marsh Creek, a gated 55-and-over community on the city's outskirts. The city also adopted new Residential Objective Design Standards in July 2026 to shape the next wave of housing projects.

Oakley is building at a faster pace for its size. Riverine by Meritage Homes starts around $682,000 to $735,000, The Preserve at Stonewood by Seeno Homes runs from about $804,000, and Summer Lake North near Saddle Creek and Deer Valley is delivering brand-new 2026 construction. One honest note for buyers: newer communities often carry supplemental property tax districts, so ask the builder for the full tax picture before you fall in love with a floor plan.

What about the commute and everyday life?

Highway 4 connects both cities to Antioch's eBART station and the rest of Contra Costa, and the Delta de Anza Regional Trail links parks, open space, and the water for weekend rides and walks. Downtown Brentwood offers restaurants, shops, and a growing civic core, while Oakley keeps a quieter, family-paced feel with the Delta at its doorstep for boating and fishing.

Which community fits you better?

Brentwood suits buyers who want more established amenities, a wider price range, and new construction with bigger floor plans. Oakley suits first-time buyers and investors who want the lowest entry price in East Contra Costa, with some new communities priced well under $700,000.

Buyer and seller tips for East Contra Costa

• Compare new-construction pricing against resale in the same neighborhood; builders often offer rate buydowns and closing-cost credits.
• Get pre-approved before touring new-home communities, and ask about lot premiums, HOA dues, and supplemental taxes.
• Sellers should price to current market value; homes priced right in Brentwood and Oakley are still selling faster than the county average.

A great way to explore both communities is on farmers market mornings. Brentwood's market runs Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon at 655 First Street, and Oakley's certified market runs Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Civic Center Plaza on Main Street.