Due east of San Francisco by way of the majestic Bay Bridge, Alameda County offers residents the perfect mix of urban comforts and rustic, natural surroundings. Situated at the foot of the Berkeley Hills, the county runs along the eastern shores of San Francisco Bay and into the historic Livermore Valley. Throughout Alameda County lie dozens of beautiful parks, the largest of which is Tilden Regional, plus a huge array of museums, galleries and performing arts venues including the Alameda Civic Ballet and the Tony-winning Berkeley Repertory Theatre.

Great schools are also a big draw to the county including a wide assortment of colleges and universities such as Cal State Hayward and the acclaimed UC Berkeley. Of course, convenient proximity to San Francisco plays a large role in East Bay living. In addition to the Bay Bridge, Alameda County residents enjoy easy access to the city via the BART rapid transit system and water ferry service out of Harbor Bay and Oakland's Jack London Square.