Oakhill Brewster District - Living in Petaluma, California

In this post I discuss one of my absolute favorite neighborhoods in Petaluma—Oakhill Brewster. I actually live here myself, so I can tell you firsthand what makes this area so special. It’s a neighborhood with beautifully preserved historic homes and very kind people, and it’s consistently one of the most sought-after areas in Petaluma.

Let’s start with a little history. The Oakhill Brewster neighborhood gets its name from the historic Oakhill estate, which was owned by the Brewster family in the late 1800s. The area developed gradually throughout the early 20th century, with many of the original homes dating back to the 1850s and 1980s. Because of its rich architectural history, the city established the Oakhill-Brewster Historic District in 1990. This official designation means that the neighborhood’s historic character is formally recognized and protected, and certain exterior changes—like additions, major renovations, or façade updates—are reviewed to ensure they fit the period and preserve the integrity of the streetscape. For residents, this helps protect property values and maintain the charm that makes the neighborhood so beloved.

The neighborhood has a mix of architectural styles. You’ll find classic Victorian and Craftsman-style homes, charming bungalows, and some mid-century modern styles. Many of the older homes feature beautiful details like original woodwork, built-in cabinets, and large picture windows, while some newer constructions have been designed to blend seamlessly with the historic character of the area.

One of the things I love most about living here is the incredible variety of homes woven throughout the entire district. You’ll see everything from grand, historic mansions to tiny early-1900s bungalows, often on the very same block. Lot sizes vary just as much — some properties have wide, sprawling yards while others sit on more compact parcels tucked into the original street grid. That mix of scale and architecture gives Oakhill Brewster so much of its character, and it means buyers can find everything from a cozy, storybook cottage to a larger home with room to spread out, all within the same historic neighborhood.

Home prices in Oakhill Brewster reflect this variety. Smaller, historic homes may start around the mid-$900,000s, while larger, updated homes can easily reach $1.5 to $2 million or more, depending on size, lot, and condition. It’s definitely a neighborhood where the value of a home reflects both its history and its location, and buyers often pay a premium to be part of this community.

Another thing that makes Oakhill Brewster so appealing is its location. You’re close to downtown Petaluma, with all the restaurants, shops, and cultural events you could want, but you still get that quiet, residential feel. There are plenty of sidewalks, tree-lined streets, and nearby parks, which make it a really family-friendly neighborhood. Plus, the proximity to schools is another big draw for families looking to settle down.

Oakhill Brewster is also home to two wonderful neighborhood parks: Oakhill Park and Penry Park. Oakhill Park is shaded by mature oak trees and offers a little bit of everything — a playground, a dog park, a pétanque court, and even a half-court basketball area. It’s one of those spots where neighbors naturally gather, and it adds so much to the day-to-day livability of the district. Just a few blocks away, Penry Park sits on a gentle rise overlooking historic downtown Petaluma. With its open lawn and beautiful views, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, read a book, or sip your morning coffee while taking in the charm of the city below.

Another charming feature of this neighborhood is the network of historic alleys that run behind many of the homes. These narrow lanes date back to the early days of Petaluma, when they were used for horse carts, deliveries, and access to detached garages and barns. Today, they give the neighborhood a unique, old-world character you don’t see in newer developments. Some of the alleys are still gravel, lined with original fences and outbuildings, and walking them feels like discovering a hidden side of the neighborhood’s history.

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Petaluma, Oakhill Brewster is absolutely worth considering. It offers that perfect mix of history, beauty, and convenience. Whether you’re drawn to the character of the older homes or the space and views of the newer properties, there’s really something here for almost every type of buyer.

Living here myself, I can tell you that there’s a feeling you get when you drive through these streets—quiet, peaceful, and rooted in history. The combination of historic charm, thoughtful preservation, and a strong community really makes Oakhill Brewster one of Petaluma’s best neighborhoods.

If you’re interested in learning more about homes in Oakhill Brewster or want to see what’s currently on the market, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to show you around this beautiful neighborhood and help you find your dream home here.