Top 5 Cities in the Bay Area for Families - A Guide
If you’re someone who loves all things home and family, you won’t be able to resist the draw of the Bay Area in California. It's a stunning region that encompasses three metro areas, each with its own unique charm and character. But if you're in the market for a new home, it can be overwhelming to figure out which community is the best fit for you and your loved ones. That's why we've put together this blog to showcase the absolute best places for families to call home in the Bay Area. These picks will have you dreaming of sunny days spent exploring all this incredible region has to offer.
Bay Area City #1 - San Jose
If you’re someone who's passionate about home design and renovation, you will definitely be excited about the opportunities in San Jose. This vibrant city is the heart of Silicon Valley, which means there are so many job prospects for those interested in the high-tech industry. With top companies like Apple, eBay, and Yahoo!, plus various healthcare and defense organizations, there's no shortage of career paths to explore. And if you're looking to settle down and make a home in this dynamic city, there are plenty of new developments to choose from. From cozy bungalows to modern high-rises, San Jose has something for every taste and budget.
And if you’re looking for the perfect place to start your family's educational journey, look no further. With some of the best schools in the area, your little ones will be on track for academic success in no time. Plus, with a range of options like San Jose State University, Stanford University, or California University of Management and Technology, your kids will have plenty of opportunities to pursue their dreams after they graduate.
Explore the lively culture of San Jose with its exciting film and music extravaganzas, dynamic theatre performances, and the luxurious shopping and dining experience of the famous Santana Row. Families seeking outdoor adventures will find a myriad of options, from hiking trails to nature parks, and numerous sports fields for the young ones. San Jose truly has it all.
Bay Area City #2 - Hayward
Experience the charm of Hayward, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Bay Area. With its picturesque manicured lawns and proximity to the bustling cities of Oakland, San Francisco, and Silicon Valley, this small town is a breath of fresh air. Whether you work in management, education, or sales, there's something for everyone here. And getting around is a breeze with the public transit system or nearby highways like the I-880 and I-580. Come discover the peaceful community of Hayward, where the hustle and bustle of city life meets the serenity of a small town.
Discover and explore the education possibilities in this vibrant city. Hayward Unified School District boasts above-average academic performance, and the city's charter school ranks as the second-best in the entire state. Higher education options abound, too, with California State University East Bay and Chabot Community College calling Hayward home.
As a family-focused individual, you want to settle down in an area that offers the best of both worlds: exciting city life and outdoor activities. Luckily, Hayward, CA, has got you covered. This vibrant city boasts an array of shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options, providing you with endless opportunities to explore and indulge. And for those who enjoy keeping active, Hayward offers stunning parks and trails for you and your loved ones to take on together. Gorgeous new construction communities are currently underway, waiting for you to make them your own. Don’t wait and make the move today to this dynamic and charming region.
Bay Area City #3 - Milpitas
Nestled at the southern end of the lustrous San Francisco Bay is the charming town of Milpitas, home to over 78,000 people. This sun-soaked California gem sits just a stone's throw away from the Googleplex, where some of the most brilliant minds in the tech industry reside. However, Google isn't the only bigwig employer in the area — Cisco Systems and a host of other major players call Milpitas home, making it clear that this town is a hotbed of opportunity for those in the technology industry.
With a plethora of reputable schools in the area, education in this region is both relatively accessible and enriched. You don’t even have to settle for a standard education as you can aim higher with a wide range of educational opportunities. At the California Science and Technical University, you can explore cutting-edge MBA, MSCSE, and Emerging Technology Degree Programs that will challenge your intellect and ignite your passions. Discover the endless possibilities that lie ahead in this educational hub and unlock your full potential today.
Explore the great outdoors with your loved ones at local parks and hiking trails, indulge in some retail therapy at the expansive Great Mall of the Bay Area, and catch the San Francisco 49ers take the field at nearby Levi's Stadium — all conveniently located just a stone's throw away from your potential new home in Milpitas. With easy commuting options and a plethora of family-friendly activities, the opportunities for fun and adventure are limitless.
Bay Area City #4 - Walnut Creek
Get ready to fall in love with the charming town of Walnut Creek, situated just a quick 25-mile drive from bustling San Francisco and 16 miles from the vibrant city of Oakland. Despite its small size, this quaint California gem boasts a population of 70,000 and is home to some major employers, including John Muir Health, Kaiser Permanente, and Aetna. But what really sets Walnut Creek apart is its location, conveniently positioned near multiple freeway junctions and serving as a hub for some of California's largest cities, including San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, and San Jose. Get ready to explore this hidden treasure and discover all of its unique offerings.
You can also elevate your family's educational experience in Walnut Creek. Bursting at the seams with top-notch public and private school offerings, your little ones will have endless opportunities to thrive. Plus, the icing on the cake: a convenient branch of Brandman University right here in town. Say hello to a fulfilling academic journey for your whole family.
Imagine living in a picturesque neighborhood filled with historic buildings, high-end shops, and delicious dining options. Add in stunning views and countless outdoor activities for the whole family, and you've found Walnut Creek. With 16 parks and endless trails, it's the perfect place to raise your kids while still enjoying the perks of city living. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity — start your search for a new home in Walnut Creek today.
Bay Area City #5 - Brentwood
Brentwood is a picturesque town located in Northern California, just a hop and a skip away from San Francisco. While it originally started out as an agricultural hub, the area has since bloomed into a stunning residential community with a population of approximately 63,000 people. With an abundance of leafy streets and leafy public parks, Brentwood is the perfect place to raise a family and enjoy the best of both worlds.
Brentwood is a high-class area where the majority of families work in the tech industry or in positions like management, sales, and healthcare. The schools are also absolutely amazing. Both the Brentwood Union and Liberty Union School Districts have received impressive 7 out of 10 scores on greatschools.org.
Imagine a city where the lifestyle is designed for the ultimate convenience and comfort. Commuter-friendly and amenity-rich, it's the perfect place for families to thrive. This city boasts magnificent parks that are so impressive, it was even designated "Playful City, USA." And if that's not enough, the downtown area is brimming with retail, dining, and entertainment establishments to keep everyone happy. It's no wonder why new homes in Brentwood are a hot commodity. Come see for yourself and experience the ultimate family-friendly city.
If you’re ready to make a fresh start and move your family to the Bay Area, we've got the scoop on the top five places that'll make family living a breeze. These areas offer great job opportunities, top-notch schools, and plenty of new homes to choose from. Plus, the list of things to see and do is endless — from hiking and biking to museums and restaurants. And if you want to make it even more exciting, new construction allows your kiddos to have a say in picking out their new bedrooms. Let's make your dream of a perfect family home a reality! Explore new homes in the Bay Area today.
For more design tips, local attraction guides, and homeowner lifestyle articles, check out the Pulte Homes blog for inspiration.
Contributed by Carol Youmans