Government risk assessment for homebuyers considering 94501. Data from FEMA, USGS, CAL FIRE, CGS, OpenFEMA, and EPA.
F
Estimated Risk Exposure
$84,000
Ranked #5 of 25 Bay Area zip codes analyzed
81
Risk Score (0–100)
Identified Risks
🌊FEMA AE/VE flood zones
🏚️Liquefaction extreme
🌊Sea level rise
⚠️22 FEMA disasters
Risk Assessment Detail
Island city surrounded by water. Extensive FEMA AE and VE (coastal) flood zones. Built on bay fill with extreme liquefaction risk mapped by CGS. Critical sea level rise vulnerability — portions could be inundated by 2050.
FEMA Flood ZoneAE / VE (coastal)
Nearest FaultHayward Fault (5 miles)
Wildfire SeverityNot mapped in fire zone
Liquefaction RiskYes — mapped by CGS
FEMA Disaster Declarations22 since 2000
CountyAlameda County, CA
💰 Insurance & Cost Implications
Mandatory flood insurance for most waterfront properties. FEMA VE zones carry highest premiums. Sea level rise may increase zones over time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 94501 in a flood zone?
Yes — FEMA maps show flood zone designation AE / VE (coastal) in parts of Alameda. Properties in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (zones starting with A or V) require mandatory flood insurance if you have a federally-backed mortgage. Premiums typically range from $2,000 to $4,500 per year.
What is the earthquake risk in Alameda?
Alameda is located 5 miles from the Hayward Fault. The California Geological Survey has mapped liquefaction zones in this area, meaning the ground could become unstable during a major earthquake. Alameda County has experienced 22 FEMA disaster declarations since 2000. The California Earthquake Authority (CEA) offers residential earthquake insurance — coverage is optional but recommended this close to active faults.
Are there wildfire risks in Alameda?
Alameda is not in a CAL FIRE-designated wildfire severity zone. Wildfire risk is minimal for most properties in 94501. This is one area where this zip code has a lower risk profile compared to hillside and canyon communities.
How is the $84,000 exposure calculated?
The exposure estimate is based on industry-standard cost models: NFIP average flood insurance claims, USGS earthquake damage probability models, CAL FIRE wildfire rebuilding cost data, and historical disaster costs from OpenFEMA. It represents the estimated financial impact of the identified risks based on what these events actually cost homeowners. Individual properties will vary based on exact location, construction, elevation, and proximity to specific hazards.
Data Sources & Methodology
Flood zones: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer (NFHL) — msc.fema.gov