Contra Costa County Relocation Guide by Christie's International Real Estate Sereno

RELOCATION GUIDE FOR THE COUNTY OF

CONTRA COSTA SERENO

W E LC O M E TO C O N T R A C OSTA C O N T R A C OSTA COUNTY MAP ALAMO ANTIOCH B AY P O I N T B E T H E L IS L A N D B L AC K H AW K B R E N T WO O D BY R O N C L AY TO N CONCORD CROCKETT DA N V I L L E D IS C OV E RY B AY E L C E R R I TO EL SOBRANTE HERCULES L A FAY E T T E M A RT I N E Z M O R AGA OA K L E Y O R I N DA PAC H E C O PINOLE P I T TS B U R G P L E ASA N T H I L L RICHMOND RODEO SA N PA B LO SA N R A M O N

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Welcome to Contra Costa At the heart of the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area, Contra Costa County offers its approximately 1.3 million residents an array of family-friendly homeownership options amid a range of natural and undeveloped open spaces. The name “Contra Costa” means “opposite coast” in Spanish, which references its position just across the Bay from San Francisco. Tunnels, bridges, highways, and public transportation make the county a desirable location for commuters who seek affordable housing. It’s also comfortably accessible to Wine Country, to the north in Napa and Sonoma Counties, and the state capital to the east in Sacramento. “CoCo County,” as locals affectionately call it, spans 716 square miles of land and 88 square miles of water. The Sacramento and San Joaquin River Delta region, with over 1,200 miles of waterways, marks the northern border and includes the largest estuary on the US Pacific Coast. It draws people for boating, fishing, and water sports while also serving as an essential habitat for fish and wildlife.

Whether you’re a young, single professional, part of a growing family, or a retiree, Contra Costa County is a great place to call home. The city of Walnut Creek serves as the county’s commercial center, while Mt. Diablo, with a peak elevation of 3,849 feet, serves as its focal point. In fact, the area was originally called “Mt. Diablo County”, one of the original 27 counties when California became a state in 1850. Many neighborhoods tout views of the peak, and outdoor enthusiasts come from bordering counties to take advantage of the miles of hiking and biking trails there and in national protected areas, including Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge, Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site, John Muir National Historic Site, and Rosie the Riveter/ World War II Home Front National Historic Park. The region celebrates and supports its agricultural roots, and today’s farms continue to thrive in the mild Mediterranean climates to supply local farmers’ markets with stone fruits, corn, cherries, and walnuts. Residents are also proud of the County’s role as a World War II homefront. The post-war boom created a market for affordable housing (and multiple-room homes with large yards, which weren’t available in the big cities), and as families got settled, large companies followed. Today the County boasts bedroom communities with family-friendly neighborhoods, highly rated schools, and charming downtowns nestled alongside open spaces. Contra Costa County offers vibrant suburban living that still retains some of its rural feel.

716

SQUARE MILES WITH 88 SQUARE MILES OF WATER

1.3

MILLION RESIDENTS IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

3,849

FEET HIGH – THE PEAK ELEVATION OF WALNUT CREEK’S MOUNT DIABLO

1,200

MILES OF WATERWAYS MARK THE REGION

RODEO

CROCKETT

HERCULES PINOLE SAN PABLO

BAY POINT

MARTINEZ

PITTSBURG ANTIOCH

PACHECO

OAKLEY

CONCORD

EL SOBRANTE

PLEASANT HILL

RICHMOND EL CERRITO

BETHEL ISLAND

CLAYTON

WALNUT CREEK

BRENTWOOD DISCOVERY BAY

LAFAYETTE BYRON

ORINDA

ALAMO MORAGA

DANVILLE

BLACKHAWK

SAN RAMON

Contra Costa County

Alamo Just under 15,000 people live within Alamo’s 9.67 square miles, which allows for a rural, country feeling in this affluent unincorporated community halfway between Danville and Walnut Creek. Drawn to the beautiful homes, upscale lifestyle, well-maintained streets and neighborhoods, and highly rated public schools, 93% of residents own their homes. Notable residents have included Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi and Golden State Warriors player Stephen Curry. Álamo is the Spanish word for poplar, and the area is named for the poplar trees that grow along San Ramon Creek. The creek fed the land in earlier centuries when it primarily supported grazing cattle, grain farms, orchards, and vineyards. Open spaces are still valued today, and residents enjoy access to Livorna Park (where a summer concert series is held), Rudgear Park, Hap Magee Ranch Park’s large meadow and picnic areas, and several dog parks. 6

Antioch Host to the Contra Costa County Fair, Antioch boasts a proud history. One of the oldest towns in the state, it originally served as a shipping point (the “Gateway to the Delta”) on the San Joaquin River, which forms its northern border, and supported a paper mill, as well as the local logging and coal mining industries. In the 1990s and early 2000s, Antioch experienced a suburban development boom, and today it is the second-largest city in Contra Costa County and home to an ethnically diverse population of over 111,000 residents. The quiet, laid-back city retains its sparse suburban feel with its mix of rural, residential, and marine areas, and offers a variety of affordable housing options, from condominiums to single-family homes. Nearly 90% of residents commute to work, taking advantage of easy access to Tri Delta Transit buses, Highway 4, and Highway 160. An eBART train connects historic downtown Antioch to the Pittsburg/Bay Point line. The city’s neighborhoods, schools, and parks draw young families seeking a special quality of life. Access to over 30 parks provides hiking and walking trails, lake and river fishing, and beautiful spots for picnicking. Naturalists and bird watchers trek to the Dow Wetlands Wildlife Habitat Preserve and Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge, while others who enjoy faster-paced activities head to Antioch Speedway to take in auto racing. Boating enthusiasts appreciate the city’s municipal marina, as well as private marinas, boatyards, and yacht clubs.

A fun fact: Antioch is “the home of the milk carton!” In the mid-1950s, Fibreboard Research developed a method for coating cardboard for use as milk, juice, and ice cream containers.

Bay Point Nestled between Pittsburg and Concord along Highway 4, the unincorporated community of Bay Point has had several names in its history. At one point it was called “Bella Vista,” which translates to “beautiful view,” a nod to its views of Suisan Bay. Bay Point is home to just under 26,000 residents, many of whom commute for work. Consisting of just 7.4 square miles, of which 88% is land, this small town offers a peaceful, sparse suburban feel. Breezes off the bay help to keep the weather nice, and Bay Point Regional Shoreline’s open space and marsh habitat draw locals outside for fishing, birdwatching, and hiking.

Bethel Island In the heart of the Sacramento–San Joaquin River Delta, tiny Bethel Island is a haven for retirees, vacationers, and other people who want to get off the beaten path. With over 1,000 miles of waterways surrounding it, it is a favorite home port for boaters, and many waterfront homes come with docks. Just over 2,000 people live on the island’s 3,500 acres, and they have access to a wealth of amenities from shops, bars, and restaurants, to beautiful beaches and fishing spots. Water sports are of course very popular activities, as well as birdwatching and hitting the links at Bethel Island Golf Course’s 18-hole championship course. On New Year’s Day, many people turn out for the “Frozen Bun Run,” a water skiing event on the Delta.

Blackhawk Beautiful and upscale Blackhawk was developed in the 1970s into seven gated communities, all connected by a three-mile jogging trail. Featuring luxury homes and townhouses, and some large estates, it still retains the rural feel of the land that was once part of Blackhawk Ranch. Approximately 9,600 residents live in this safe, diverse, and friendly community just east of Danville and bordered to the north by Mt. Diablo State Park. At home, they enjoy the restaurants and shops in Blackhawk Plaza, as well as two championship golf courses and Blackhawk Country Club’s tennis courts, Olympic-sized pool, and activities for all ages. 8

Brentwood Brentwood established its roots as a rural community and today proudly celebrates its farming heritage and local specialties, including cherries, corn, and peaches. The city’s nearly 62,000 residents and visitors (more than 150,000 agri-tourists each year) support and are served by the year-round Saturday morning farmers’ market, farm stands, country stores, wineries, and u-pick and pre-pick farms. The city’s landmark and tallest structure is its water tower (now a cell phone tower), which lends its charm to a historically maintained commercial and residential district. Downtown Brentwood features restaurants, boutiques, salons and spas, and retail stores. This vibrant, family-friendly, and affordable modern bedroom community is a welcome respite at the end of the workday for people who commute to Walnut Creek, Oakland, and San Francisco. The Brentwood Union School District has many schools designated as a California Distinguished School. Heritage High School offers a full range of Advanced Placement courses and boasts the highest Academic Performance Index (for California public schools) in the area. Public and performing arts are enthusiastically supported through the Community Center Public Art Walls, Brentwood Theater Company, and Brentwood Art Society, which sponsors the annual Art, Wine, and Jazz Festival. The “Starry Nights in Brentwood” free concert series is a Friday night summer tradition, one that brings families and friends together for evenings of live music, picnicking, and dancing in Downtown’s City Park. There’s a strong feeling of community within the city’s 14.8 square miles. Proudly patriotic, every year Brentwood honors and recognizes active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families with the Military/Veteran Banner Program.

Byron In the early 1990s,movie stars and famous athletes came to Byron Hot Springs Resort during the warm summers to find some peace and quiet. Today, this 6.5-square-mile town continues to offer its 1,300 residents a respite from big city life, and many families have farmed and lived here for generations. Byron is located just southeast of Brentwood. Local features include Campos Family Vineyards, a hidden gem that offers wine tastings and a picnic area, and Byron Airport, a public airport with two asphalt runways that is a popular spot for skydivers and glider flyers.

Clayton Small town Clayton has been named one of the “Top 100 Places to Live in the Nation” by CNN’s Money Magazine – several times! Residents love it for its great public and private schools, clean streets, low crime rate, and family-friendly community events. It’s described as having an “old town feel with a young family vibe.” Clayton was initially a coal-mining town, and locals are fond of their town’s Old West history. There are even still places to tie up horses downtown. To decide the town’s name, in 1857, founding fathers Joel Henry Clayton and Charles Rhine flipped a coin. Clayton was incorporated in 1964. There’s still a lot of wide-open space in and around the 3.8 square miles that are home to today’s 12,000 residents. There’s access to trails at the base of Mt. Diablo for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians, and the Clayton Trail System provides another 27 miles of trails on over 500 acres.

Many people commute to work in bigger cities and live in Clayton because it’s a great place to raise a family. Here they feel part of a small, friendly, and active community, where people look out for each other. There are a number of annual events that bring neighbors together, including the Art and Wine Festival, Rib Cook-Off, Labor Day Derby, Oktoberfest celebration, and Concerts in the Grove series in Downtown Park.

Concord Founded in 1969, Concord was named by Condé Nast Traveler magazine “one of 10 best places in the world to retire.” The largest city in Contra Costa County, it’s home to over 130,000 people, a multicultural food scene, and world-class live music at the annual Concord Jazz Festival and in the Frank O. Gehry–designed Concord Pavilion. Todos Santos Plaza is the heart of downtown. Recently redeveloped with new apartments and condominiums, it retains its historic charm and draws locals and visitors to surrounding restaurants, tap houses, breweries, and special events throughout the year. The Parks and Recreation Department offers a fully certified preschool program, and the city, as part of the Mount Diablo Unified School District, offers education for K–12 plus adult education. Concord features many

family-friend amenities, including a community pool and skatepark, an 18-acre dog park at John F. Baldwin Park, sports fields and bocce courts, and playgrounds and picnic areas. Relief from the hot summers can be found at Meadow Homes Spray Park, open Memorial Day weekend through the end of September, and outdoor enthusiasts find adventures yearround in the area’s acres of open spaces and rolling hills. Hillcrest Park includes Matteo’s Dream, a playground for children of all abilities. Music is central to Concord’s appeal. The city is home to the world champion (several times over) Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps, and world-famous jazz musician Dave Brubeck was born in Concord. In the 1970s he returned to his hometown to play at the Concord Jazz Festival at Concord Boulevard Neighborhood Park, now known as Dave Brubeck Park.

Crockett Crockett has a sweet history. Hidden in plain sight at the southern end of the Carquinez Bridge (I-80), Crockett is the home of the California and Hawaiian Sugar Refining Company (C&H Sugar). The company began operations there in 1906, and today processes over 700,000 tons of cane sugar every year. Crockett celebrates this heritage by hosting the annual SugarTown festival. This small unincorporated town, home to more than 3,000 people, is known for being quaint,

affordable, and picturesque. It boasts access to a beautiful shoreline along the Carquinez Strait, as well as hiking and biking paths that provide panoramic views. Crockett also supports a thriving artist community. Sculptors, woodworkers, oil painters, photographers, jewelers, musicians, writers, and poets live and work here, and they share their work through galleries, poetry readings, and live jazz performances.

Danville

In the 1860s, Danville offered settlers the ideal climate and conditions for raising cattle and sheep, and growing grains, onions, fruits, and nuts. The Southern Pacific Railroad arrived in 1891, which brought industrial growth and population growth, through a wave of immigrants from places as far away as China, Portugal, Germany, and Japan. Danville today is a thriving melting pot of over 44,000 residents who love the area’s sparse suburban feel, low crime rate, and family-friendly neighborhoods.

Danville is a great place to raise children, as private and public schools (notably Monte Vista High School and San Ramon Valley High School) are highly ranked. The Village Theater and Art Gallery hosts children’s theater, Broadway shows, and art discussions, and the

town hosts a number of annual family-friendly events, including the Danville International Children’s Film Festival, Hot Summer Nights (an auto show and live music), Fall Arts Festival, and Christmas tree lighting. Residents of all ages also take advantage of the Iron Horse Regional Trail, which runs through Danville. Originally a railroad, it now serves as a safe path for hiking and cycling. A true sense of this charming and welcoming community can be found downtown. The historic Clock Tower square is the heart of Danville, and it is surrounded by upscale businesses, art galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops. Even though Danville includes 18 square miles of land, it maintains its small-town feel.

Discovery Bay The Town of Discovery Bay is a boater’s paradise. Located on the Delta, with man-made dikes that help form fresh-water lakes and waterways, this unincorporated planned community features a full-service, deep water yacht harbor and marina, and many homes come with private docks. The land was initially used to grow barley and potatoes. In the 1970s it became a popular weekend and summer vacation destination, and these days, the 16,000 residents of the town’s quiet and private gated communities embrace the area’s rural feel. Two shopping centers, three public schools, and one private school help make Discovery Bay family-friendly year-round.

Danville

In addition to enjoying swimming, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and fishing, residents appreciate the Ted Robinson–designed champion course at Discovery Bay Country Club. The tight knit community promotes a “live where you play” attitude, and most people commute to their jobs outside of the town’s seven square miles. TriDelta Transit provides bus, express service, and paratransit. BART stations are about 30 minutes away in Pittsburg and Dublin. Highway 4 provides access for cars, and, with all the waterways, boaters can launch from their Discovery Bay home ports on adventures to just about anywhere in the world.

El Cerrito When this town was incorporated in 1917, residents chose the name “El Cerrito,” which means “little hill” in Spanish. It is from the hills here that people can take in spectacular views across the San Francisco Bay and of the Golden Gate Bridge. In the late 1800s, the hills were home to more cattle than people. Dairies and chicken farms were the primary industries. After the earthquake and fire in San Francisco in 1906, many people found refuge in the town, then called “Rust.” The population again grew dramatically as World War II brought work to the area, and the town experienced a housing boom after the war.

At just 3.7 square miles, the area has a dense suburban feel, as today, over 25,000 people call El Cerrito home. It is described as a calm, peaceful, friendly bedroom community, from which commuters have easy access to I-80 and I-580. The town has two BART stations,

and AC Transit provides additional public transportation. The quaint plaza in the heart of the town draws out the diverse population, as does San Pablo Avenue, a walkable street that runs end-to-end through El Cerrito and features a wide variety of shops and ethnic food establishments. The area’s temperate climate makes outdoor activities appealing at Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, Hillside Natural Area, and Ohlone Greenway, a 2.6-mile segment of trail for runners, walkers, and cyclists created on an old railroad. El Cerrito also offers several public parks, a public pool at El Cerrito Swim Center, community arts and theater programs, programs for seniors, plus childcare, summer camp, and sports for kids. Three elementary schools, one middle school, and El Cerrito High School are part of West Contra Costa Unified School District.

El Sobrante A hidden gem, partially nestled within the city of Richmond, El Sobrante offers its nearly 14,000 residents a comfortable, small-town quality of life in its 2.8 square miles. The population is a multicultural and generational mix, with many young families drawn here by the affordable home prices and big yards. Near I-80 and Sobrante Ridge Regional Preserve,

unincorporated El Sobrante has a dense suburban feel that also offers access to wide open spaces. Hikers enjoy access to many miles of trails, naturalists appreciate the mature trees and plants, and wild deer, turkey, and foxes populate the area. There are also a number of active farms here.

Hercules The California Powder Works opened a plant here in 1881 to produce dynamite, which they called “Hercules Powder” in homage to the Greek mythological hero. That is how the town of Hercules got its name when it was incorporated in 1900. When CPW switched to manufacturing fertilizer, it sold off the land previously needed as a buffer zone, and developers moved in. In the 1980s, Hercules was California’s fastest-growing suburb, and today it is home to more than 25,000 people. Hercules is described as a quiet and calm community, and with its friendly, caring, and diverse residents, it is considered a safe place for seniors and families. The town hosts a number of family-friendly events, including the City-Wide Garage Sale, 4th of July 5K Run and Parade, and a Winter Wonderland Workshop at Hercules Teen Center, where people of all ages gather for holiday time arts & crafts, music, and treats. Schools, depending upon their locations,

are part of the West Contra Costa Unified School District or John Swett Unified School District. The Parks & Recreation Department offers aquatics, camps, sports, and programs for seniors, and is known for supporting working parents and their kids with before- and after-school programs. Popular spots for enjoying the area’s natural beauty include scenic Shoreline Park, which overlooks San Pablo Bay, and Refugio Valley Park, which is known for its two fountains and duck pond. Local shops and businesses contribute to the appeal of this small, bedroom community. Hercules has a sparse suburban feel, while it also offers proximity to bigger cities for commuters. The town is served by I-80 and Highway 4, AC Transit, and the WestCAT bus system, which connects to BART.

Lafayette Lafayette, named for the Frenchman who led troops to victory in the American Revolution, first attracted settlers in the 1840s with its steam-powered mill on Lafayette Creek. The town expanded again in the early 1860s when it served as a stop for the Pony Express, then, like many other towns in Contra Costa County, experienced a building boom after World War II. Tree-lined streets, quiet and safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community contribute to Lafayette’s rural, small-town suburban feel for its 26,000 residents today. Other benefits of living here include access to highly rated schools (including Campolindo, Miramonte, Acalanes, and Las Lomas High Schools) and easy commutes to San Francisco via its own BART station and Highway 24. Locals come out for several annual events, including Taste of Lafayette, Summer Motorama car show, Rock the Plaza’s free outdoor concerts, and the Lafayette Art, Wine & Music Festival. Many of these take place along Mt. Diablo Boulevard, the town’s thoroughfare, which boasts a great selection of restaurants. There are also excellent trails for walking, hiking, and cycling, especially around Lafayette Reservoir, affectionately called “the Rez.” In October, runners, walkers, and a “stroller brigade” come out for the Lafayette Reservoir Run’s 10k, 5k, and 2-mile races. Art, music, and entertainment enthusiasts will appreciate the town’s support through the Public Art Committee, which acquires and maintains art for the city’s collection, the Lafayette Jazz Festival, and the Town Hall Theatre Company. Town Hall, built in 1914, holds the distinction of housing the oldest continuously active theatre company in the county.

Martinez Martinez is one of the oldest towns in California, dating back to the 1840s when it was a trading post, shipping port, and launch for hopeful miners headed to the Gold Rush. Many existing homes and shops date back 100 years or more, and their 20th-century architectural styles lend to the city’s charm. As the county seat, it provides 19 cities with a host of administrative services. Students are served by the Martinez Unified School District, which includes an early intervention preschool and Martinez Adult Education, which first started offering classes in 1919. Just over 38,000 people live within the city’s 12.5 square miles, giving the area a dense suburban feel. Locals describe the community as affordable and safe, and they enjoy the historic downtown area with its shops, restaurants, wine bars, local craft breweries, and live entertainment options. Neighbors gather on Main Street for the farmers’ market

as well as special events, such as the Wine & Chocolate Stroll, Bay Area Craft Beer Festival, Family Nights in the Plaza, Small Business Saturday, and a Hanukkah Celebration. Martinez is surrounded by natural beauty, from Suisun Bay shoreline to the north, views of Mt. Diablo and Mt. Tamalpais to the west, and Las Trampas Regional Wilderness to the south. John Muir National Historic Site (part of the US National Park Service) is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and one of the entrances to Briones Regional Park is in Martinez. A fun fact: Legend has it that a gold miner stopped by on his way to San Francisco and requested a special beverage to celebrate his good fortune. The bartender got creative with gin and vermouth, and called his concoction the “Martinez Special,” what we now call the Martini. 17

Moraga Niche.com ranked Moraga #1 in the “Best Places to Live in Contra Costa County,” and one of the contributing factors is the excellent schools. Local students have access to three top-ranked high schools (Campolindo, Miramonte, and Acalanes), and the town is home to Saint Mary’s College of California, which was included among the “Best 386 Colleges in the US” by Princeton Review 2021. Another perk is the area’s agreeable climate, which encouraged early settlers to plant pear and walnut trees, a heritage that is still celebrated at the Pear and Wine Festival every September. The town has a sparse suburban feel, with just over 17,500 residents living within 9.4 square miles, and the community remains committed to preserving natural landscapes, which means stargazers are treated to spectacular night skies.

In addition to heading to open spaces for walking, cycling, and other outdoor activities, residents take advantage of a number of family-friendly venues. Moraga Commons Park features a bandshell, bocce ball courts, picnic areas, and playgrounds, as well as Lamorinda Skatepark and Commons Park Water Feature, which is open during summer months. The town-owned Hacienda de las Flores hosts Hacienda Nights in the summer, and neighbors come together for a day-long 4th of July celebration, complete with fireworks. A fun fact: The adobe home of Joaquin Moraga, the town’s namesake, is likely the county’s oldest building. Built in 1841 and designated as a historical landmark in 1954, it is currently a private home within the borders of neighboring Orinda.

Oakley With its gently rolling hills, beautiful waterfront, country lanes, vineyards, and orchards, Oakley is a picturesque place to call home. Incorporated in 1999, this young city celebrates its natural beauty, farming heritage, and diversity. Well situated on the California Delta, with San Francisco 55 miles to the west and Sacramento 55 miles to the north, Oakley offers a sparse suburban feel and a fishing and boating paradise to its 41,000 residents. What was once a quiet farming town has grown into a still-quiet small town, from which people commute to bigger cities for work. Residents describe the community as safe, clean, organized, and friendly, with great schools. Three school districts (Oakley Union Elementary, Antioch Unified, and Liberty Union High) operate in the area.

As Oakley grows with housing developments and business opportunities, the residents are making a real effort to build community. Sports fields, parks, and programs serve all ages, and Oakley Senior Center serves older adults. Neighbors come together for the Hometown Holiday Decorating Contest, and the town proudly celebrates its diversity and brings people together through its “You, Me, We Oakley!” program, multicultural performances at the Heart of Oakley Festival, and the annual Dia de los Muertos Celebration. Big Break Regional Shoreline is a peaceful spot favored by locals. With paved and dirt walking trails amid beautiful natural scenery, an abundance of birds and fish, and places for kayaking, picnicking, and fishing, it is a great place for kids and adults to explore.

Orinda Originally a rural area and home to ranches and scattered summer cabins, Orinda began to attract year-round residents after the Caldecott Tunnel was completed in 1937. Today its sparse suburban feel appeals to people who want a familyfriendly environment with easy commutes – via Highway 24 and Orinda’s own BART station on the Pittsburg/Bay Point Line – to Oakland and San Francisco. Ninety percent of Orinda’s not quite 20,000 residents own their homes, which co-exist with the surrounding natural beauty of rolling and treecovered hills. Those hills block most of the foggy conditions in nearby Oakland, and create several microclimates that allow for cool, rainy winters and warm, dry summers. Local trails – some of which provide access to larger area trails, including Briones Regional Park – attract Bay Area hikers, cyclists, and naturalists. Orinda is known for its well-managed and stable municipal government, with its own police department serving the city’s 12.7 square miles. Restaurants, coffee shops, and the Orinda

Theater – a historic Art Deco movie theater with a wine bar – end to its small-town feel. The city is supportive of the arts through Art in Public Places, which showcases one-of-a-kind art pieces throughout Orinda, and California Shakespeare Theater (affectionately known as “Cal Shakes”), which produces four shows in the summer in its beautiful outdoor venue. The family-oriented city hosts popular community events including its 4th of July parade, Holiday Bazaar, Concerts in the Park, and Lamorinda Idol. Orinda’s public schools are highly rated and competitive, and students may attend nearby Campolindo, Miramonte, and Acalanes High Schools. A robust Parks & Recreation Department offers programs and classes for youth, adults, and seniors. Home to Orinda Aquatics, the city has produced numerous competitive swimmers and water polo players, including Olympians Kirk Everist and Heather Petri. 19

Pacheco Tiny Pacheco was once a major shipping port for Contra Costa County. In the mid-1800s, Pacheco Slough, along the Walnut Creek (then called Pacheco Creek), was able to accommodate ocean-bound vessels that transported grains from the area, and the town prospered as a commercial center. Over time, the slough filled in with silt, restricting access to bigger waterways, and many residents and businesses moved to Concord and other nearby towns. Today approximately 4,300 residents make their homes on the town’s 0.7 square miles of land. It is a quiet and safe community, a good place for raising kids, and in 2021, Niche.com ranked it #2 in the “Best Suburbs to Buy a House in California.” As an

unincorporated area, Pacheco is governed by the County Board of Supervisors. Pacheco has a sparse suburban feel and comes with several amenities. As part of Mt. Diablo Unified School District, it has access to highly rated public schools. Buchanan Field Airport lies just outside Pacheco’s eastern border, Buchanan Fields Golf Course is nearby, and the town is near the interchange of I-680 and Highway 4. For folks seeking peace and quiet, Pacheco Creekside Park offers pathways and benches for appreciating Grayson Creek and native, drought-resistant plantings. For a livelier outing, there’s California Grand Casino, which got its start alongside a Pony Express stop and has been dealing winning poker hands since 1854.

Pinole Pinole is another hidden gem in Contra Costa County. A “very chill town,” according to residents, it offers a quiet, family-friendly environment with affordable homes, good schools, and a thriving artists’ community. The town boasts an impressive architectural heritage, with many buildings and façades that date back to the late 1800s and are beautiful examples of Queen Anne, Italianate, and Neoclassical styles. Early visitors and settlers arrived on the stagecoach and Santa Fe and Southern Pacific trains, drawn in part by employment opportunities in shipping at the shoreline and at the nearby California Powder Works Plant, which was in operation until 1939. Today Pinole is home to a diverse population of just over 19,000 residents who appreciate the area’s dense suburban feel. Commuters

appreciate Pinole’s access to I-80, which runs through the middle of town. Seniors find programs and opportunities for socializing at Pinole Senior Center, and athletes find outlets at the athletic fields, basketball and tennis courts, and playgrounds maintained by the Recreation Department. Families of all ages frequent local coffee shops and restaurants, Pinole Valley Grove, and the town’s two plazas. Annual community events include the Crab Feed, Festival of the Arts, Northern California Cruisers’ Car Show, Movies in the Park, and an Independence Day Festival in Fernandez Park.

A fun fact: Antler’s Tavern on San Pablo Avenue in Pinole has been a popular watering hole since the 1890s.

Pittsburg Due to its prime location on the Delta, at the point where the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers meet, Pittsburg was home to thriving fishing and canning industries in its early days. Then, when coal was discovered in the hills in 1869, it was briefly known as “Black Diamond.” With the arrival of Columbia Geneva Steel in 1911, the city became “Pittsburg,” with a nod to Pittsburgh (with an H), Pennsylvania, the birthplace of the steel industry. Pittsburg’s current population of over 71,000 is very diverse, representing many ethnicities and cultures. It is home to a tight-knit and welcoming community that includes multiple generations of families. Education is valued here, and learning opportunities come through Pittsburg Unified School District, which offers good programming for K–12, and Los Medanos College, which offers award-wining transfer and career/technical programs and was named one of the “50 Best Community Colleges for 2017” by College Choice.

The city has a dense suburban feel with a charming downtown, a newly redeveloped business district, and many family-owned restaurants and small businesses. In addition to taking advantage of the local parks, residents enjoy the Art Walk, which features sculptures, murals, and architecture. The Pittsburg waterfront is a popular destination for leisurely days of picnicking, fishing, and boating. The beautiful Pittsburg Marina is one of the largest on the Delta and features a public launch ramp and berths for nearly 600 boats. Proximity to other big cities is one of the factors that makes Pittsburg affordable for and appealing to young families and professionals. It is easy to get to nearby towns for dining, shopping, and attending cultural events, and two BART stations on the Pittsburg line facilitate commuting.

Pleasant Hill Pleasant Hill sits in a sweet spot between Concord and Walnut Creek, which allows its nearly 35,000 residents of this dense suburban area to feel like they live in a small town. A big draw is Downtown Pleasant Hill, which, although it opened in 2000, was developed with community input to feel like a traditional Main Street and is today a charming, walkable spot lined with restaurants and shops. Originally farmland, the population boomed during and after World War II. Currently it is a thriving bedroom community, with commuters taking I-680 and BART, via the Pleasant Hill/ Contra Costa Center station, to major Bay Area commercial centers. Known for being family-friendly, Pleasant Hill offers excellent educational opportunities through highly rated public schools (part of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District) and Diablo Valley College, a community college that offers associate degrees and vocational training.

The area is also known for its beautifully maintained parks, and the city’s parks and recreation department offers childcare, camps, clubs, and activities for all ages. Young and old are also drawn to the Chilpancingo Fountain at City Hall, which is home to about 100 Koi and 40 turtles. Members of the community often come together for fun events, including the Blues and Brew Festival, Summer Concerts by the Lake, the Tinkers & Thinkers Innovation Faire, and Trunk or Treat, a safe Halloween event held in the parking lot of Pleasant Hill Park. An example of Pleasant Hill’s generous spirit is the Annual Community Service Day. Since 2005, residents have contributed their time and energy to projects such as planting trees, donating blood, and collecting food for the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano.

Richmond Surrounded on three sides by the San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, Richmond has a very proud history as the home of the most productive wartime shipbuilding operation of World War II. During that period, 747 ships were launched from her port and tens of thousands of people moved into the area to be part of the wartime industries, including the “Rosies.” The women who worked in the shipyards are remembered and honored today at the Rosie the Riveter memorial and the Rosie the Riveter World War II Home Front National Historic Park. The Port of Richmond continues to operate as the most diversified cargo handler in Northern California, though the primary industries currently driving the area’s economy are high tech and biotechnology. Chevron and Zeneca (formerly Stauffer Chemical) also have facilities here.

suburban feel. Families and young professionals are attracted by affordable housing, a welcoming and diverse community, a mild climate (with an average of 60 degrees in winter and 72 in summer), and Richmond’s position as a transportation hub. In addition to the deepwater shipping port, there is access to I-80 and I-580, Santa Fe and Southern Pacific Railroads, several local bus lines, and a combined BART and AMTRAK station in downtown. Thirty-two miles of shoreline provide vantage points for watching beautiful sunsets over the bays, clear views of Golden Gate and Richmond Bridges, as well as miles of walking trails. Popular outdoor spaces include Brooks Island Regional Shoreline, Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, Alvarado Park, and Sobrante Ridge Regional Preserve, one of just two places where rare Alameda Manzanitas grow.

The city’s nearly 110,000 residents live on 33.7 square miles of land, giving the area a dense

Rodeo Located between Hercules and Crockett, Rodeo offers its more than 10,000 residents a quiet, small town community with a sparse suburban feel within its 4.6 square miles. It acquired its name in the late 19th century, when cattle were herded down from the surrounding hills and driven through the town on their way to loading docks on the shoreline of San Pablo Bay. The Phillips 66 Refinery is a significant presence and employer here, as it has been since it was built in 1896. Rodeo has always been a proud community of workers, which they demonstrated when they rebuilt the town

after it was devastated by the great 1906 earthquake. As an unincorporated area today, Rodeo receives support from the county. Locals, from young professionals to families, appreciate the access to beaches, parks, and views of the hills. Many commute to work in other Bay Area cities via I-80 and Highway-4, then when they are home, appreciate how bike-friendly their town is. Popular gathering places include neighborhood restaurants and bars, as well as Four Fools Winery. In addition to offering breathtaking views of San Pablo Bay, the winery hosts fun activities such as food truck nights and car shows. 23

San Pablo In the late 1700s, the Spanish government sent explorers to this area, followed by missionaries and settlers, making San Pablo one of the oldest Spanish settlements in the region. It was the home of Governor Juan Bautista Alvarado, the first native-born governor of the State of California, and Alvarado Adobe, a replica of his house (the original was built in 1842) is now a museum. During World War II, San Pablo, like many other East Bay towns, experienced a phenomenal population boom as people arrived to work in the Richmond Shipyard. The town also grew around that period as African Americans left the South during the Great Migration. The city incorporated in 1948, and its culturally and ethnically diverse population makes up today’s vibrant community. All 2.6 square miles of San Pablo are nestled within the city of Richmond, and since nearly 31,000 people live here, the area has an urban

suburban mix feel. Housing in this family-friendly community is affordable, and the city has seven elementary schools, one middle school, and Contra Costa College within its borders. Professionals commute to work via I-80, the AC Transit system, and nearby BART and ferry stations. Locals have several options for getting out and enjoying the wonders of nature. There’s access to Alvarado Park and Wildcat Canyon Regional Parks for hikes and picnics. Kennedy Grove, with its elegant eucalyptus trees, offers shady respite from hot summer days. John Herbert Davis Park and Wanlass Park are both inside San Pablo. And nearby San Pablo Reservoir, which is stocked with trout and bass, offers boats rentals and launches. For those who prefer indoor fun, there’s San Pablo Lytton Casino, which is owned and operated by the Lytton Band of Pomo Indians.

San Ramon Niche.com ranked San Ramon among the “Top 20 Best Suburbs to Raise a Family in California.” This thriving city, home to almost 76,000 residents, boasts outstanding public schools courtesy of the San Ramon Valley Unified School District, clean and safe neighborhoods, and beautiful spaces for enjoying the great outdoors. The city’s colorful history and diverse population is represented through the evolution of its name. At different times it was called Brevensville (for blacksmith Eli Breven), Lynchville (for William Lynch), and Limerick (for the many Irish settlers). Finally, in 1873, when a permanent post office was established, it was dubbed San Ramon, after San Ramon Creek, which was named for an Indian vaquero.

Both sheep and cattle were raised here in the late 1800s to early 1900s. Farmers also planted

hay, barley, walnuts, and fruit crops, and at one time, San Ramon was home to the world’s largest Bartlett pear orchard. Suburban development surpassed agriculture as the driving economic force in the mid-1960s, and today the city is a bedroom community with a dense suburban feel. Chevron and 24-Hour Fitness are big employers in the area, though many residents commute to work via I-680 and BART. Shopping options are plentiful, as are places for outdoor recreation. In addition to heading to community-managed sports fields and facilities, locals frequent parks that preserve and celebrate the city’s historic roots and natural beauty. Popular destinations include Souyen Park, Forest Home Farms Historic Park, Glass House Museum, Firetruck Park, and Las Trampas Regional Wilderness Park. Golfers tee up for 18 holes at Canyon Lakes Golf Cours and the Bridges Golf Course.

Walnut Creek It should come as no surprise that walnuts have been a successful crop in this area. This city of close to 70,000 residents was named after Arroyo de las Nueces, “Walnut Creek,” which got its name from the native California Walnut trees that thrived here. (The creek, by the way, still runs through tunnels below downtown.) The same beautiful climate that supported agriculture in decades past is still a bonus for current residents, and home gardeners find inspiration at the Ruth Bancroft Garden, a well-regarded botanical garden. Another benefit of living in Walnut Creek, which has an urban suburban mix feel, is the many city-owned open spaces, including sections of Lime Ridge Open Space, Shell Ridge Open Space, Acalanes Ridge Open Space, and Sugarloaf Open Space. American settlers first arrived here in the mid-1840s and established “The Corners” at a central point on the roads connecting Pacheco and Lafayette. The population boomed in the 1950s, and 1951 marked the opening of Broadway

Plaza, Contra Costa County’s first major retail center. Several buildings downtown are over 100 years old. Today, with its proximity to the junction of I-680 and Highway-24, Walnut Creek continues to serve as an artistic and commercial hub for the county, with casual and high-end retail establishments, multicultural dining options, and world-class entertainment venues. Opera, ballet, and live theater and musical performances are held here, courtesy of Opera in the Park in Civic Park, Lesher Center for the Arts, and California Symphony. John Muir Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente are two of the area’s top local employers. Workers utilize trails, bike lanes, and free weekday shuttles provided by County Connection to commute within the city’s borders. Two BART stations and bus service through Central Contra Costa Transit Authority (CCCTA) facilitate travel for longer distances. 25

NOTES:

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