Berkeley

Incorporated in 1878, Berkeley continues to welcome newcomers from all backgrounds, foster close community ties, and live up to its reputation as an innovative, exciting, and fun place to live. Over 83% of its residents rate Berkeley an "excellent" or "good" place to live.

When asked what they like most about living in Berkeley, residents repeatedly cite cultural diversity, art, beautiful parks, innovative businesses, and friendliness amongst neighbors. Other frequently mentioned characteristics include great restaurants and shopping, proximity to the University of California - Berkeley, geographic location, the physical beauty of the environment, easy access to San Francisco, Oakland, and Silicon Valley, the weather, community services, recreational activities - and an abundance of Cool Things To Do!

Sheltered by rolling hills and the San Francisco Bay, Berkeley is a vibrant and spirited city of surpassing richness.

Within Berkeley's 18 square miles, a visitor can hear a symphony or a jazz quartet, stroll through a redwood forest or a rose garden, shop for Tibetan jewelry or sportswear from The Gap, play a round of golf, take a yoga class, catch a world-premiere play or first-run film, embark on a sport fishing excursion or enjoy an architectural walking tour.

Consummately Californian in its setting -- but international in its cultural landscape -- Berkeley is home to the University of California, Berkeley, which lends an academic air to the entire city. With its wealth of culture and social diversity, dining and shopping opportunities and recreational pursuits, Berkeley is a compact city offering an exciting range of visitor options.