Table of Contents

• Introduction to Contra Costa County
• LAMORINDA: Lafayette, Orinda, Moraga
• Downtown Area & Real Estate
• Proximity to Oakland and San Francisco
• San Ramon: Evolving Community
• City Vibe & Real Estate
• Walnut Creek: County's Cultural Center
• Family-Friendly Amenities & Outdoor Spaces
• Concord, Pleasant Hill, and Martinez
• FAQ

Introduction to Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County, located in the East Bay area, has evolved to offer big city amenities combined with a small town feel. With lower crime rates, ample space, and excellent schools, it's a desirable location for families. The area is also known for its proximity to outdoor spaces like Mount Diablo State Park, Las Trampas Regional Park, and the Iron Horse Trail, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

LAMORINDA: Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda

Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda, collectively known as LAMORINDA, offer excellent schools, great downtown areas with shopping and restaurants, and easy access to open spaces and the outdoors. Lafayette, the largest of the three towns, has a walkable downtown area with a state-of-the-art library and cultural center. Orinda is home to the historic Orinda theater and a variety of restaurants and shops, while Moraga boasts a new Brew Pub and beer garden, making it a great place for socializing and entertainment.

Downtown Area & Real Estate

Living in Contra Costa County offers access to vibrant downtown areas with shopping, restaurants, and cultural centers. The real estate in these areas is some of the most expensive in the Bay Area, but it's worth it for the variety of housing options and large homes on spacious lots. The undeniable perks of the area, such as thriving downtowns, proximity to outdoor spaces, and top-ranked schools, make it a desirable place to live.

Proximity to Oakland and San Francisco

Contra Costa County is conveniently located in close proximity to Oakland and San Francisco, making it a great spot as it's just a short distance through the Caldecott Tunnel. With easy access to the BART stations, residents have a straight shot right into San Francisco for work or leisure. The area is also situated very close to a thriving, walkable downtown in Danville, offering a diverse range of restaurants, boutique shopping, and bars.

San Ramon: Evolving Community

San Ramon has evolved over the years, shedding its reputation as a sleepy bedroom community. With large investments in multi-unit properties, it has attracted a younger, more diverse population, looking for a vibrant city vibe in the East Bay. The city now boasts a big city center with famous restaurants from San Francisco, making it a destination for those wanting to move out of the city but still enjoy a city-style life.

City Vibe & Real Estate

San Ramon offers a mix of large subdivisions and spacious homes, attracting residents who want the perks of city living with a more relaxed suburban feel. The real estate market has seen significant changes, with the city now offering a diverse range of housing options, from amenity-rich condos to larger homes. The perennial top-ranked schools in California make it an attractive option for families.

Walnut Creek: County's Cultural Center

Walnut Creek has evolved to become the urban hub of Contra Costa County, offering a mix of casual and sophisticated restaurants, amenity-rich condos, and an incredible Performing Arts Center. The completely remodeled Broadway Plaza is a destination for high-end and luxury shopping. It delivers good schools while also balancing bigger city appeal with family-friendly amenities. In close proximity to Mount Diablo State Park and Heather Farms, Walnut Creek offers a great outdoor experience, with a small-town feel and numerous festivals throughout the year.

Family-Friendly Amenities & Outdoor Spaces

Contra Costa County is an ideal location for families, with a variety of family-friendly amenities and outdoor spaces. There are excellent schools, ample space, and proximity to outdoor spaces like Mount Diablo State Park, Las Trampas Regional Park, and the Iron Horse Trail, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is known for its vibrant downtown areas, offering vibrant downtown areas with shopping, restaurants, and cultural centers, making it an attractive place to live for families.

Concord, Pleasant Hill, and Martinez

Concord, Pleasant Hill, and Martinez offer a down-to-earth, family-friendly vibe with great diversity and affordability. Martinez has experienced a resurgence in its historic downtown, with incredible restaurants, breweries, and live music. Pleasant Hill is quieter and more suburban, offering a cool neighborhood vibe with ranch-style homes on large lots. As the largest city in Contra Costa County, Concord has a vibrant downtown area, cool breweries, and is a great place for taco lovers to find their favorite dish.

East County vs. West County

The East County, with cities like Brentwood, Antioch, and Oakley, is characterized by its thriving agricultural community and sprawling open land. It's a haven for boaters, wakeboarders, and those who love being on the water. The West County, on the other hand, provides easy access to national brands, a diverse culture, and affordable single-family housing. El Cerrito and Richmond share an urban vibe, while smaller towns in the West County offer sleepier communities.

FAQ

Q: What are the top-ranked schools in Contra Costa County?

A: The top-ranked schools in Contra Costa County are located in cities like Lafayette, Orinda, Moraga, San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill, and Martinez. These areas are known for providing excellent education for students of all ages.

Q: What are the outdoor spaces and parks in Contra Costa County?

A: Contra Costa County offers a variety of outdoor spaces and parks, including Mount Diablo State Park, Las Trampas Regional Park, Iron Horse Trail, Heather Farms, and the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. These areas are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to spend time in nature.

Q: Are there affordable housing options in Contra Costa County?

A: While real estate in some areas of Contra Costa County can be expensive, the East County and West County offer more affordable housing options. Cities like Brentwood, Antioch, Oakley, El Cerrito, and San Pablo provide more affordable single-family housing, making it accessible to a diverse range of residents.

Q: How is the commute to San Francisco and Oakland from Contra Costa County?

A: Contra Costa County is conveniently located with easy access to Oakland and San Francisco. The area is connected by BART stations, providing a straight shot into San Francisco for work or leisure. The Caldecott Tunnel also offers a convenient route to the big cities, making the commute more accessible.