Oakland: Thriving In San Francisco’s Shadow
Gracefully situated on the east side of San Francisco Bay, the city of Oakland may have grown up in San Francisco’s shadow, but it stands on its own as the 8th best city for business in the nation per Forbes magazine.
With 19 miles of Bay coastline and beautiful rolling hills, Oakland is noted for its spectacular views of the Bay, San Francisco, the Golden Gate and Oakland Bay bridges and the Pacific Ocean. Its residents revel in the natural beauty this waterfront northern California town has to offer.
This city of nearly 400,000 residents thrives with an ethnically diverse population that is a true representation of America’s melting pot. The city’s residents speak more than 100 different languages and dialects and represent such diverse populations as Chinese, Vietnamese, Cambodian and more.
Founded in 1852, the city has come a long way since the Gold Rush. Oakland offers lots to do year-round for its residents and visitors alike. With three major sporting teams, an extensive parks system and a ton of things to so and see, Oakland area residents are hard-pressed to run out of things to do.
The community itself is known for a mix of unusual architecture that ranges from new home construction to elegant old Victorian estates and properties with a strong Mediterranean influence. Historic districts abound in this city, which is known for preserving its roots while looking toward the future.
With major employers that include the Port of Oakland, Pinkerton and Southwest Airlines, Oakland is known for its pro-business climate. Its proximity to Berkeley and San Francisco also make it a favorite of those who love the Bay views and rolling hills, but work elsewhere. The Bay Area Rapid Transit Authority has strong connections between Oakland and San Francisco plus there are ferry services and the bridges to accommodate commutes.
Educational opportunities abound in the general Oakland area with a long list of colleges and universities calling this area home. Within the general area students will find the University of California-Berkeley, California College of the Arts, San Francisco State University and more. Plus Oakland itself has more than 81 public schools and over 50 private schools.
With great views, wonderful architecture, a strong business community and a diversity that’s almost unmatched the world over, Oakland is a strong community on its own, thriving in the shadow of San Francisco.
Fast Facts
- Location: Northwestern California, across the Bay from San Francisco.
- Population: 399,484, Census 2000
- Median resident age: 33.3
- Median family income: $30,597
- Average home price: $365,280
- Average rainfall: 18.8 inches
- Average snowfall: 0 inches
- Average temperature: Winter average high 52.7 degrees Fahrenheit; low 44.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer high 72.5; low 51.5
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