Homes in Benicia, CA
Benicia offers historic charm with good schools and waterfront views, making it a desirable Solano County community.
Why Benicia?
Historic Charm
Benicia served as California's state capital in 1853-1854, and the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park preserves this rich history. The downtown features well-preserved Victorian architecture and historic landmarks that attract visitors and residents alike.
Waterfront Location
Benicia's location along the Carquinez Strait provides scenic waterfront views and recreational opportunities. The Benicia Public Pier offers fishing and scenic views, while waterfront parks provide gathering spaces for the community.
Good Schools
Benicia Unified School District serves the city with strong schools including Benicia High School, which offers comprehensive programs and college prep focus. The district's commitment to education attracts families seeking quality schools.
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Neighborhoods in Benicia
Discover the unique character and charm of Benicia's diverse neighborhoods.
Downtown Benicia
Historic downtown area with Victorian homes, shops, restaurants, and waterfront access near the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Walking distance to Benicia Capitol State Historic Park and historic downtown shops.
Waterfront access and Benicia Public Pier for fishing and scenic views.
Diverse dining options from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants.
West Side
Residential neighborhood with established homes and convenient access to schools and parks.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Proximity to Benicia Middle School and Benicia High School.
Community parks and recreation facilities within walking distance.
Easy access to I-780 and Highway 29 for regional commuting.
East Side
Family-friendly area with good schools and established neighborhoods near the Carquinez Strait.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Strong schools including Mary Farmar Elementary and Matthew Turner Elementary.
Scenic views of the Carquinez Strait and surrounding hills.
Proximity to Benicia State Recreation Area for outdoor recreation.
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Schools in Benicia
Quality education is a cornerstone of Benicia's appeal to families.
| School Name | Level | School Rating | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mary Farmar Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Matthew Turner Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Joe Henderson Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Robert Semple Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Bonnell Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Benicia Middle School | Middle | ViewView Rating | |
| Benicia High School | High | ViewView Rating | |
| Liberty High School | High | ViewView Rating |
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Note: Verify current ratings and boundaries with official district resources. School assignments may change based on enrollment and boundary adjustments.
Major Employment Hubs & Local Employers
Benicia offers excellent access to major Bay Area job centers and is home to several major employers.
Major Employment Hubs Near Benicia
San Francisco Financial District & Embarcadero - Finance, legal, and tech headquarters reachable in 35-45 minutes via Vallejo Ferry to Ferry Building.
Oakland Downtown / Lake Merritt Business District - Government agencies, healthcare, and professional services 30-40 minutes south on I-80.
Vallejo Business District - Government, healthcare, and retail employment 10 minutes west via I-780.
Top Employers in Benicia
Benicia City Government
Municipal government operations including city administration, public works, and community services employing local residents in various departments and public safety roles.
Benicia Unified School District
School district operating five elementary schools, Benicia Middle School, Benicia High School, and Liberty High School, employing educators, administrators, and support staff in comprehensive educational programs.
Valero Benicia Refinery
Major petroleum refinery facility employing engineers, technicians, and operations staff in refining operations, maintenance, and safety roles serving the regional energy sector.
Commute Times
Benicia offers excellent connectivity to major job centers, airports, and regional destinations.
Commute to Major Job Centers
Airports
Regional Hotspots
Lifestyle & Amenities
Discover what makes Benicia a special place to live.
Daily rhythms in Benicia blend historic charm with modern convenience. Residents start mornings with coffee at downtown cafes before commuting to San Francisco via ferry or driving to Vallejo, Fairfield, or Oakland, arriving in 10-45 minutes. Evenings bring neighbors to waterfront parks, community events, or downtown restaurants that keep the community engaged throughout the year.
Family life centers around good schools, community parks, and strong neighborhood connections. Parents appreciate Benicia High School's college prep focus, while elementary schools like Mary Farmar and Matthew Turner provide excellent foundations. Neighborhoods like West Side and East Side offer community parks and programs that bring families together.
Outdoor culture thrives thanks to waterfront access, Benicia State Recreation Area, and community parks. Residents enjoy fishing at the Benicia Public Pier, hiking trails, and scenic views of the Carquinez Strait, while the waterfront setting provides opportunities for water-based recreation and relaxation.
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Weather & Climate
Quick-hit visuals that show how Benicia feels throughout the year.
Temperature Story
Quick look at the seasonal swing in Benicia
Winter Comfort Band
40–50°F
Typical overnight lows from December through February.
Summer Warmth Band
75–85°F
Afternoon highs during peak summer months.
Climate Type
Mediterranean
Overall pattern
Days of Sunshine
260+ days
Bright days/year
Annual Rainfall
15-20 inches
Nov–Mar showers
Benicia's waterfront location creates mild summers with cooling bay breezes and moderate winters.
Mild summers with occasional warm days; cool, wet winters with most rainfall occurring December thro...
Year-round outdoor living is possible thanks to mild temperatures.
Parks & Recreation in Benicia
Benicia maintains over 10 parks and recreational facilities, from neighborhood parks to large regional parks.
Benicia State Recreation Area
State Park
State recreation area with hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the Carquinez Strait serving Benicia community. The park offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the waterfront setting.
Benicia Public Pier
Recreation
Public fishing pier with scenic views of the Carquinez Strait and surrounding hills. A popular destination for fishing, walking, and enjoying waterfront views of the bay and surrounding landscape.
Benicia Capitol State Historic Park
Historic Park
Historic park preserving California's third state capitol building with museum and educational programs. The park offers guided tours, exhibits, and special events celebrating California's early statehood history.
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Natural Hazards & Fault Lines
Important information about seismic activity, flood zones, and fire hazards in Benicia.
Major Fault Lines Near Benicia
Hayward Fault
Located approximately 15 miles southeast
Type: Right-lateral strike-slip
San Andreas Fault
Located approximately 30 miles west
Type: Right-lateral strike-slip
Fire Hazard Severity Zones
Low to moderate; hillside areas require proper defensible space and fire-resistant landscaping.
CalFire Classification
Seismic Hazard Zones
Liquefaction Zones
Low to moderate risk in low-lying areas near the waterfront; minimal risk in most neighborhoods on stable ground.
Landslide Zones
Low to moderate susceptibility on hillside slopes, especially during heavy winter storms.
Alquist-Priolo Fault Zone Status
Portions of Benicia may fall within fault zone areas; geological reports required for new construction in designated zones.
FEMA Flood Zones
Zone Type
Zone X in most areas; Zone AE in low-lying waterfront areas.
Flood Risk Notes
Most homes are in low-risk flood zones. Waterfront areas may experience flooding during high tides and storm events.
Additional Notes
Benicia participates in regional earthquake preparedness programs. Many older homes may need seismic retrofitting. The city has strict building codes for new construction.
What Locals Say
Hear from residents about living in Benicia.
"Living in Benicia gives us the perfect balance of historic charm and modern convenience. The waterfront views and community events make it a special place to call home."
— Benicia Resident
"The schools here are strong, and the ferry commute to San Francisco is so convenient. We love being able to avoid bridge traffic and enjoy the scenic ride."
— Benicia Commuter
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Local Favorites
Discover recommended restaurants and dining spots in Benicia.
Sailor Jack's
Popular waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood, burgers, and American classics with scenic views of the Carquinez Strait. A local favorite for casual dining and waterfront atmosphere.
One House Bakery
Beloved local bakery and cafe serving fresh pastries, sandwiches, and coffee in a charming downtown location. A morning ritual for many residents, known for excellent baked goods and friendly service.
Lucca Bar & Grill
Italian restaurant serving traditional Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizzas in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Popular for date nights and family dinners.
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What Makes Benicia Special
Discover unique features, historical facts, and notable highlights of Benicia.
Historic State Capital
Benicia served as California's state capital in 1853-1854, making it the third state capital. The Benicia Capitol State Historic Park preserves this rich history with the original capitol building and museum.
Waterfront Location
Benicia's location along the Carquinez Strait provides scenic waterfront views and recreational opportunities. The Benicia Public Pier offers fishing and scenic views of the surrounding hills and water.
Victorian Architecture
The downtown features well-preserved Victorian architecture and historic landmarks that attract visitors and residents. Many homes date back to the 1800s and reflect the city's rich history.
Ferry Access
Vallejo Ferry Terminal is just 10 minutes away, providing convenient access to San Francisco Ferry Building and downtown San Francisco. The ferry commute offers scenic views and avoids bridge traffic.
Arts Community
Benicia has a thriving arts community with local galleries, studios, and cultural programming. Arts Benicia supports local artists and hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Benicia Arsenal
The historic Benicia Arsenal was a major military installation from 1851 to 1964. Today, the area includes historic buildings, parks, and cultural attractions that reflect the city's military heritage.
Community Events
The city hosts vibrant community events including the Benicia Peddler's Fair, farmers market, and waterfront festivals that bring neighbors together throughout the year.
State Recreation Area
Benicia State Recreation Area provides hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the Carquinez Strait. The park offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing.
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Insider Tips
What to know and what to be aware of when considering Benicia.
What to Know
Ferry Commute
Vallejo Ferry Terminal is just 10 minutes away, providing convenient access to San Francisco Ferry Building. The ferry commute offers scenic views and avoids bridge traffic, making it a popular option for San Francisco commuters.
Historic Preservation
Benicia has strong historic preservation efforts, with many Victorian homes and historic buildings protected. The Benicia Capitol State Historic Park preserves California's third state capitol building.
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What to Avoid
Ignoring Traffic Patterns
I-780 and Highway 29 can be congested during commute hours, especially during peak ferry times. Factor in traffic when considering commute times to Vallejo and Fairfield.
Skipping Seismic Checks
Older Victorian homes may need seismic retrofitting; have inspections done before purchase, especially for historic properties.
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Homes for Sale in Benicia
Active listings coming soon. Contact us for current availability.
Coming Soon
We're working on bringing you real-time listings for Benicia. In the meantime, contact us to get personalized information about available homes in this area.
Nearby Cities
Explore other areas we serve in the Solano County region.
Questions About Benicia
Common questions about living and buying in Benicia.
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