If you’re moving to the San Francisco Bay Area, it can be difficult to decipher which neighborhood is right for you. Thankfully, we’re here to walk you through some of the Bay’s top neighborhoods. Read on to learn which community is best for you!

Located across the bridge from San Francisco, Oakland all too often gets overlooked by its larger-than-life neighbor. However, this thriving city has plenty to offer. Here, you will find everything from chef-driven restaurants and plenty of outdoor recreational options to an emphasis on art and culture. Oakland has over 130 distinct neighborhoods and is home to approximately 435,000 residents.

Life in Oakland is far from boring. For a special evening out, make reservations at Wood Tavern. This elite restaurant features a California-infused menu of sustainable options and guarantees an upscale dining experience. During the weekends, enjoy bottomless mimosas during brunch at Portal. This chic and eclectic restaurant features a diverse menu and patio seating.

After enjoying a decadent brunch, head over to the Old Oakland Farmers Market, located in the Old Oakland historic district. This charming market has been a part of the community for over 20 years and takes place on Fridays from 8 AM to 2 PM. Explore the booths containing fresh produce, baked goods, and fresh flowers. The Joaquin Miller Park is a great way to get exercise or connect with nature. Hikers, equestrians, joggers, and picnickers all enjoy using the variety of trails and paths available here.

Located squarely between Oakland and Berkeley, Emeryville is a small town that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Emeryville has a population of roughly 10,000, offering residents a slice of small-town life. This town might be small, but it still has plenty to offer. Here you will find an eclectic array of companies (including Pixar), a diverse array of restaurants, and plenty of parks and green spaces.

For dining, make reservations at Trader Vic’s. This waterside restaurant features a global menu with dishes from the Middle East, Asia, and the Mediterranean. Enjoy sipping your tropical cocktails while taking in expansive bay views. If you’re ready to shop until you drop, then head over to Bay Street. This exciting urban village has incredible stores, a lively atmosphere, food, and live entertainment.

There’s little more rejuvenating than spending some time in the sunshine, and, thankfully, Emeryville provides plenty of parks and green spaces to do just that. Doyle Hollis Park is the perfect place to spend a fun day in the sun with your family. This park features a playground, basketball court, picnic areas, amphitheater, and picturesque fountain.

Piedmont is one of the most sought-after communities in the Bay Area, and it’s not hard to understand why. With a population of 10,000, this charming town offers residents a small-town feel, top-rated schools, and a strong sense of community. The majority of homes were built from the early 1900s to the 1960s, with few new homes.

Start your morning off by getting your caffeine fix at Snow White Coffee. This quaint shop serves pour-over coffees and espresso drinks made from locally roasted beans. For a casual night out, head over to Kotobuki Japanese Restaurant. This laid-back restaurant offers an assortment of authentic Japanese dishes. Enjoy a sunny day at Piedmont Park. This leafy city park is a popular spot for picnics, dog-walking, or simply soaking up the fresh air.

Berkeley is located across the bridge from San Francisco. This bustling city is known for its diversity, lively atmosphere, and top-notch education options. Home to the University of California, Berkeley, this college town attracts individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds. It was rated first on Niche’s healthiest cities in America and ninth on Niche’s list of best cities to live in America. With a population of just over 120,000, Berkeley has something for everyone.

Berkeley has ample options for dining, shopping, and entertainment. For a memorable dining experience, make reservations at Rivoli. This refined establishment serves a California-Mediterranean-inspired menu in an intimate setting overlooking a luscious garden. If shopping is your guilty pleasure, check out the Berkeley Flea Market. This lively market, which occurs on the weekends, features local and international vendors selling artwork, handmade crafts, antiques, and collectibles. To connect with nature, head over to Tilden Regional Park. Spread across 2,079 rolling acres, this luscious park has hikes for every age and fitness level.

If you are ready to make the move to the Bay Area, contact Helen Chu today. Helen serves a wide range of communities, including everything from luxury homes in Oakland, to Berkeley condos for sale. Her expertise will help you find the perfect neighborhood and your dream home.