Berkeley, CA Area Guide

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Berkeley, CA

Maybe it is the proximity to San Francisco, or maybe it is the sense of social liberalism, but there is a reason why over 100,000 people choose to live in Berkeley, California. This small city is located on the Eastern part of the San Francisco Bay, and it does not come cheap. The average costs of living, as well as rental and home costs, are roughly twice more than the national average; however, the city offers no shortage of charm and breathtaking views. If you can afford it, consider moving to this unique area.

Berkeley is made up of only about 10 miles of land, and 7 miles of water, most of which is in the San Francisco Bay. It borders Oakland, Emeryville, Contra Costa County and Albany. Much of the city is elevated and comprised of peaks, the highest being Grizzly Peak. If you like mild weather, you will love it there. The climate is Mediterranean, and summers are dry, while winters are wet. Mornings and evenings with a slight chill and plenty of fog are commonplace, so bring layers.

Thanks to the progressive values held by many who live in Berkeley, public transportation is bustling. Numerous bus companies, including Golden Gate Transit, take riders where they need to go. It is also well served by ferry boats, as well as Amtrak and Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), which has three stations in Berkeley. BART also offers airport transportation, so you can get by living here without a car. Not only is it convenient, but it is affordable, too. It only costs about $1 per ride with a Clipper Card.

The city of Berkeley offers tons of options for shopping, eating, sightseeing and entertainment. Telegraph Ave, once a hippie enclave, is the go-to place to shop or grab a quick bite. If you want to see San Francisco, head to the Berkeley Marina and Pier to spot the Golden Gate Bridge. After you get hungry from all that walking, swing by a coffee shop in the Gourmet Ghetto, or dress up for a fancy meal. The many off-beat attractions give Berkeley its character. Catch a film at the United Artists Cinema, get educated at the Lawrence Hall of Science or catch a show at the Hearst Greek Theater. Or, chill out on the UC campus.

Berkeley gives you the chance to experience the beauty of northern California combined with all the cultural riches of the city. Live in a small, community-oriented place with easy access to one of the largest, most busting cities in the country. You get the best of both worlds when you live there. Come experience the beauty of the Bay Area — you will love it.