Perched on the edge of Northern California and overlooking the Bay, the dazzling views in the coastal city of Berkeley are unforgettable — as is the community. There is always something to do, see, and experience in this vibrant place, whether it’s jogging through one of the scenic regional parks, strolling the arts district, seeing a show, or grabbing a cup of joe at a local coffee house. Home to the University of California, Berkeley, the state's first land-grant university, the area is the birthplace of the 1960s Free Speech Movement and still harbors an artistic, free spirit. Food lovers rejoice over the smattering of local cuisine boasting global flavors, from Thai to Ethiopian and beyond. Downtown, you’ll find endless opportunities to see and support excellent music and theatre.

• Incredible food and dining scene
• Vibrant downtown area
• Artistic culture and community
• Spacious local and regional parks
  
  

The University of Berkeley is an undeniable centerpiece of the city, but there is also a rich local culture outside of campus. From students and young working professionals to families and retirees, the area is brimming with people of all ages and backgrounds who love to get active and enjoy the beauty of the area. At the Marina or Tilden Park, you’ll find residents running, jogging, and cycling. In the evening and on weekends, locals enjoy music at the California Conservatory of Jazz and unforgettable dining experiences at all of the restaurants clustered on and near Shattuck Ave — from cafes and shops to music stores. The community is energetic yet laid back amidst spread out urban living: the epitome of California cool.

Berkeley offers no shortage of delightful local and ethnic restaurants to try and inviting businesses at which to shop. The “Gourmet Ghetto” is a colloquial name for the business district of the North Berkeley neighborhood, known as the birthplace of California cuisine. You’ll find unbelievable watering holes and stylish eateries like Chez Panisse, Alice Waters' acclaimed flagship with a chic seasonal restaurant downstairs and a cozy cafe upstairs. The Cheeseboard Collective offers up a pizzeria, bakery, and cheese shop all in one spot, with one style of veggie pizza per day and limited, exclusive seating. Ethiopia Restaurant will satisfy all your cravings, as will Berkeley Thai House. In Berkeley, there’s always something dynamic and comforting to eat.

Living in Berkeley means you never have to choose between lush, green scenery and exciting, urban spaces to enjoy. The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest urban regional park district in the United States. A local favorite is Tilden Park, a 79-acre regional park that offers a botanic garden, golf course, swim areas, and trailheads for running, biking, and more. It also has a merry-Go-Round and a farm that was built in 1955 and features a variety of farm animals, including cows, sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens, and pigs. When residents are not outside breaking a sweat or enjoying nature, they’re taking it slow with an intentional stroll through one of many Berkley Farmers’ Markets or unwinding at the open-air Hearst Greek Theatre and Berkeley Repertory Theatre for major concerts, musical theatre, and shows.

Berkeley Public Schools have several highly-rated schools and educational facilities of note. The system comprises three preschools, eleven elementary schools, three middle schools, and one large comprehensive high school with over 3000 students, as well as a continuation high school and an adult school.