Oakland is the 45th largest city in the United States, the eighth largest city in California, Alameda County's county seat and its largest city, and the third largest city in the San Francisco Bay Area. As a major port city and trade center on the West Coast, its Port of Oakland is the fifth busiest in the United States of America the busiest port in Northern California.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Oakland is ranked Number One in cities in the United States relative to its climate. It is blessed with a Mediterranean weather that means dry and warm summers with an average of 260 sunny days each year. The city has over 50 distinct neighborhoods, so it is easy to choose from the best places to live in Oakland when you explore the different areas and see what they have to offer and what fits in with your desired lifestyle.
Professional sports franchises include the Golden State Warriors, the Oakland Athletics, and the Oakland Raiders. Downtown Oakland has developed its nightlife scene in a major way with a multitude of new venues springing up, and more are promised for the future. Currently there are 75 cafes and restaurants, 40 bars and clubs, 33 art galleries and other cultural venues, and 32 major attractions and events. Free 90-minute Walking Tours in Downtown Oakland’s renaissance are a wonderful way to enjoy what Expedia Viewfinder said when they ranked Oakland as being among the super cool U.S. cities to visit. The tours are offered every Wednesday and Saturday from May through October and there are eight different itineraries.
Lake Merritt is located east of Downtown, was designated as the first official wildlife refuge in the United States, and is known as the jewel of Oakland. You will see a mix of joggers, bikers, paddleboaters, picnickers, and those taking romantic rides on authentic gondolas from Venice and listening to Italian serenades. The Chabot Space and Science Center has 86,000 square feet of science exhibitions and interactive space, planetarium shows, giant screen MegaDome shows, guided stargazing tours, and the largest research-quality telescopes west of the Mississippi that are open to the public. LaserMania, A Rockin'Music Odyssey, is a brilliant display of sound and color that features classics from Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and others.
We can help you in your search for the best places to live in and around Oakland. We can point out the location and amenities of desired neighborhoods, the availability of education and employment in the area, and much more while staying within your budget requirements.
