Cambrian Park, a charming suburban neighborhood in San Jose, California, is known for its safe streets, excellent schools, and family-friendly vibe. But is it the right place for you? This guide dives into safety, schools, housing, amenities, and more to help you decide if Cambrian Park is a good neighborhood to call home. All data is current as of August 2025, ensuring you have the latest information to make an informed decision.
Overview of Cambrian Park
Cambrian Park is a small, unincorporated census-designated place within the larger Cambrian area of South San Jose, with a population of about 3,719 per the 2020 Census. It spans zip codes 95124 and 95118, bordering vibrant cities like Los Gatos and Campbell. Known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and strong community spirit, it’s a popular choice for families and professionals working in Silicon Valley. The neighborhood offers a suburban feel with easy access to urban amenities, making it a balanced choice for many.
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- Caption: Map highlighting Cambrian Park’s location in San Jose.
- Alt Text: Map of Cambrian Park neighborhood in San Jose, CA
- Description: A clear map showing Cambrian Park’s boundaries and proximity to Los Gatos, Campbell, and other nearby areas.
Is Cambrian Park Safe?
Safety is a top priority when choosing a neighborhood, and Cambrian Park ranks well. According to CrimeGrade.org, the area has a violent crime rate of 2.771 per 1,000 residents, lower than the national average, earning an A- safety grade. It’s in the 78th percentile for safety, meaning it’s safer than 78% of U.S. neighborhoods. The southwest part of Cambrian Park is the safest, with a 1 in 455 chance of being a victim of violent crime, while the east side has slightly higher rates at 42 incidents annually.
Residents often praise the neighborhood’s walkable streets and community watch programs, which contribute to a secure environment. Social events like Fourth of July gatherings and neighborhood watch meetings foster a sense of unity and safety.
| Safety Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Violent Crime Rate | 2.771 per 1,000 residents |
| Safety Grade | A- |
| Safest Area | Southwest (1 in 455 victim chance) |
| Total Crime Cost (2025) | $38.4M ($465 per resident) |
Schools in Cambrian Park
For families, Cambrian Park’s schools are a major draw. The neighborhood is served by the Union School District and Cambrian School District, both highly rated with California Distinguished Schools designations. Niche gives the public schools an A+ rating, reflecting their academic excellence.
Key schools include:
- Fammatre Elementary: A- rating, known for strong academic programs.
- Price Middle School: A- rating, offering diverse extracurriculars.
- Leigh High School: A rating, 97% graduation rate.
- Branham High School: A rating, 96% graduation rate.
About 16% of students attend private schools like Stratford School or Harker School, both with A+ ratings and low student-teacher ratios. The focus on education makes Cambrian Park ideal for families planning for their children’s future.
Housing Market in Cambrian Park
Cambrian Park’s housing market is competitive, with homes ranging from $549,000 to $2.99 million as of August 2025, per Zillow. Most properties are single-family homes or townhomes, built between 1940 and 1969, with some newer constructions from 1970 to 1999. The vacancy rate is low at 3.4%, indicating high demand driven by the neighborhood’s proximity to tech hubs like Google and Apple, within a 30-minute drive.
The median home price is around $1.7 million, more affordable than other Silicon Valley areas like Palo Alto. Ranch-style homes dominate, with some modern remodels offering updated features. This mix appeals to both first-time buyers and those seeking larger, upgraded properties.
| Housing Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $549,000 – $2.99M |
| Median Price | $1.7M |
| Vacancy Rate | 3.4% |
| Common Home Types | Ranch-style, townhomes |
Learn more about San Jose’s housing market trends.
Amenities and Lifestyle
Cambrian Park offers a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of amenities. Residents enjoy parks like Doerr Park, Houge Park, and Los Gatos Creek County Park, ideal for hiking, biking, or picnicking. The Camden Community Center provides programs for all ages, including swimming and senior activities. Two libraries and a weekly farmers’ market at Cambrian Park Plaza add to the community’s vibrancy.
While the neighborhood lacks a bustling downtown, it’s close to Santana Row, Willow Glen, and Campbell’s dining and shopping scenes. Residents value the quiet, family-oriented atmosphere, with frequent community events fostering strong social ties.
Future Developments in Cambrian Park
The Cambrian Park Plaza redevelopment, set for completion by June 2026, will transform the 1950s-era shopping center into Cambrian Village. This mixed-use project includes 305 apartments, 229 hotel rooms, 48 single-family homes, 25 townhomes, and 50,990 square feet of commercial space, plus four acres of public open space like a community plaza. While this will add housing and amenities, some residents worry about increased traffic, though the project incorporates bike-friendly and walkable designs.
Pros and Cons of Cambrian Park
Pros:
- Safe, with low crime rates and active community watch.
- Top-rated schools in Union and Cambrian districts.
- Access to parks, libraries, and community centers.
- Close to Los Gatos, Campbell, and Santana Row.
- Strong community spirit with regular social events.
Cons:
- High home prices, with a median of $1.7 million.
- Potential traffic increase from plaza redevelopment.
- Limited nightlife or downtown within the neighborhood.
Who Should Live in Cambrian Park?
Cambrian Park is ideal for:
- Families: Excellent schools and safe, walkable streets.
- Tech Professionals: Short commutes to Silicon Valley hubs.
- Suburban Seekers: Quiet, community-focused living with urban access.
It may not suit those seeking vibrant nightlife or more affordable housing options.
Conclusion
Cambrian Park is a standout neighborhood in San Jose, offering safety, top schools, and a welcoming community. Its proximity to tech hubs and urban amenities, combined with a suburban feel, makes it a great choice for families and professionals. While home prices are high and future developments may bring traffic challenges, the neighborhood’s charm and quality of life are hard to beat. If you’re considering a move to San Jose, Cambrian Park deserves a spot on your list.
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