Government risk assessment for homebuyers considering 94538. Data from FEMA, USGS, CAL FIRE, CGS, OpenFEMA, and EPA.
D
Estimated Risk Exposure
$54,000
Ranked #15 of 25 Bay Area zip codes analyzed
62
Risk Score (0–100)
Identified Risks
⚡Hayward Fault runs through
🌊Flood zones
⚠️22 FEMA disasters
🏚️Liquefaction
Risk Assessment Detail
Hayward Fault trace cuts through central Fremont. The Mission San Jose area sits directly on the fault. Flood zones along Alameda Creek. Alameda County has 22 FEMA disaster declarations.
FEMA Flood ZoneAE (Alameda Creek)
Nearest FaultHayward Fault (Runs through city)
Wildfire SeverityNot mapped in fire zone
Liquefaction RiskYes — mapped by CGS
FEMA Disaster Declarations22 since 2000
CountyAlameda County, CA
💰 Insurance & Cost Implications
Hayward Fault runs directly through — earthquake insurance critical. Mission San Jose neighborhood is directly on the fault trace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 94538 in a flood zone?
Yes — FEMA maps show flood zone designation AE (Alameda Creek) in parts of Fremont. 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 Fremont?
Fremont is located Runs through city 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 Fremont?
Fremont is not in a CAL FIRE-designated wildfire severity zone. Wildfire risk is minimal for most properties in 94538. This is one area where this zip code has a lower risk profile compared to hillside and canyon communities.
How is the $54,000 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