The Top 5 Oakland, CA Suburbs to Live In

When people think of Oakland, they often picture its vibrant, urban atmosphere, but the true essence of living in Oakland extends beyond the city itself. The suburbs of Oakland are diverse residential areas that offer a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still providing easy access to the city’s cultural and recreational amenities. These Oakland suburbs are spread across the East Bay region, each with its own unique character and appeal.

In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Oakland suburbs—from the hillside retreats to waterfront communities—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you're searching for the perfect apartment in Oakland or curious about the surrounding Oakland neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of Oakland to call home.

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Cost of living in Oakland

Before we dive into the top Oakland suburbs, let's cover how much it costs to live in Oakland. The overall cost of living in Oakland is 40% higher than the national average. Housing is a major factor, with the median sale price for a home in Oakland at around $812,500, which is over 88% higher than the national average of $432,657. Rent follows a similar trend, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Oakland at $2,629, about 74% more than the national average of $1,514.

While some suburbs around Oakland offer more affordable housing options, others can be equally expensive, depending on location and amenities. Here, we'll explore a range of top suburbs, providing different lifestyle and housing opportunities based on your budget and preferences.

1. Piedmont

Known for: Tree-lined streets, quiet residential feel, historic homes

Piedmont is a small, affluent enclave entirely surrounded by Oakland. This serene, residential neighborhood is known for its beautiful, historic homes and peaceful, tree-lined streets. Many homes in Piedmont are elegant, early 20th-century properties with well-maintained gardens. While it's just a few minutes away from the bustling city, Piedmont offers a distinctly suburban vibe and a tight-knit community. Residents enjoy nearby parks, including Dracena Quarry Park and the scenic Piedmont Park.

Population: 11,400
Median home sale price: $1,940,000
Piedmont transportation scores: Walk Score 45, Bike Score 47, Transit Score 42

Apartments for rent in Piedmont, CA | Houses for rent in Piedmont, CA | Homes for sale in Piedmont, CA

2. Alameda

Known for: Island living, Victorian homes, beach access

Alameda, located just west of Oakland, offers island living with a laid-back, coastal atmosphere. With its proximity to the Bay and stunning views of San Francisco, Alameda is known for its charming Victorian homes, diverse neighborhoods, and beautiful beaches. Crown Memorial State Beach is a popular spot for windsurfing, picnicking, and enjoying sunsets. The area’s pedestrian-friendly streets and waterfront parks make it a perfect place for those seeking a peaceful escape from city life.

Population: 78,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,125
Median home sale price: $1,037,500
Alameda transportation scores: Walk Score 68, Bike Score 77, Transit Score 42

Apartments for rent in Alameda, CA | Houses for rent in Alameda, CA | Homes for sale in Alameda, CA

3. Emeryville

Known for: Tech hub, vibrant downtown, proximity to San Francisco

Emeryville is a small, modern suburb nestled between Oakland and Berkeley. Known for its tech-driven economy and vibrant downtown area, Emeryville attracts professionals who work in both Oakland and San Francisco. The city boasts a mix of upscale apartment complexes, loft-style living, and waterfront parks, including the scenic Emeryville Marina. Residents enjoy easy access to shopping at the Bay Street Emeryville Mall and an array of trendy restaurants and cafes. Its central location and direct access to major highways make it an attractive option for commuters.

Population: 12,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,193
Median home sale price: $510,000
Emeryville transportation scores: Walk Score 91, Bike Score 94

Apartments for rent in Emeryville, CA | Houses for rent in Emeryville, CA | Homes for sale in Emeryville, CA

oakland ca

4. Montclair

Known for: Hillside views, natural beauty, residential feel

Montclair is an upscale neighborhood nestled in the Oakland Hills, known for its stunning hillside views and tranquil residential atmosphere. This community features a mix of large, modern homes and mid-century properties, many with panoramic views of the Bay. Montclair Village is the neighborhood’s charming commercial hub, offering boutique shopping, cafes, and a weekly farmers’ market. With several nearby hiking trails in Redwood Regional Park and Joaquin Miller Park, Montclair is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay connected to nature.

Population: 9,000 (approx.)
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,503
Median home sale price: $700,000
Montclair transportation scores: Walk Score 57, Bike Score 54, Transit Score 33

Apartments for rent in Montclair, CA | Houses for rent in Montclair, CA | Homes for sale in Montclair, CA

5. Berkeley

Known for: University town, cultural hub, progressive community

Berkeley, just north of Oakland, is a vibrant, university town known for its academic and cultural prominence. Home to the University of California, Berkeley, the city has a vibrant energy with a progressive, artsy vibe. Berkeley offers a wide range of housing, from historic homes in the hills to student apartments and modern condos near downtown. The city is filled with cafes, bookstores, and a thriving arts scene. With its numerous parks, including Tilden Regional Park, residents enjoy access to both urban amenities and outdoor activities.

Population: 124,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,315
Median home sale price: $1,425,000
Berkeley transportation scores: Walk Score 85, Bike Score 83, Transit Score 60

Apartments for rent in Berkeley, CA | Houses for rent in Berkeley, CA | Homes for sale in Berkeley, CA

Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Oakland area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of October 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.

The post The Top 5 Oakland, CA Suburbs to Live In appeared first on Apartment Living Tips - Apartment Tips from ApartmentGuide.com.



source https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/oakland-ca-suburbs/

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