Moraga

The Town of Moraga is a semi-rural community of 16,290 residents. Known for excellent schools, rolling hills, great weather and being one of the safest communities in the state. The Town was incorporated in 1974. Considered one of the most prestigious cities in the East Bay.

The MOR in Lamorinda (Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda) and much like its sister cities with upscale, nice, fairly new homes. Tree-lined streets with rolling hills and country feeling. Housing styles are mostly large single-family residences, although there are also many attractive condominium communities. There is little in the way of neighborhood parks, with the exception of a 20-acre commons in the center of town where summer concerts are often held. Still, miles of scenic trails wind throughout Moraga and hundreds of people enjoy them for strolling, joggling and cycling.

St. Mary's College, known for its exceptionally beautiful campus, is located in Moraga. Hacienda Las Flores, an old mansion built by an oil magnate, was purchased by the city and is now used as a community center. There is a lot of socializing in Moraga. Lamorinda prizes "Society" and still throws teen debutante balls. There is a country club, tennis courts, and swimming is very big with kids. Matt Biondi, the Olympic gold medal winner, is from Moraga. Campolinda High School recently built an aquatic center that includes a 50-meter pool, diving pool and lap pool. Facility is open to the public. Moraga also has its own police force.

As with Lafayette, the town's major drawback is its traffic. This is mainly because the town roads are often narrow and winding. Highway 24 to the Bay Bridge is generally stop-and-go during rush hours, so take BART if you can. BART stations at Lafayette and Orinda.

The Moraga Elementary School District (elementary) & Acalanes Union High School District both rank in the top 2 percent statewide and many kids go on to the best colleges. Much parental energy goes into education. In 1991, voters passed a $42 parcel tax to maintain programs at the high school level. Lamorinda students ride school buses at a cost of about $300 a year per student.