These Bay Area suburbs are perfect for LinkedIn employees looking for an easy commute and high quality of life…
Sunnyvale—home to LinkedIn’s global HQ—is a great spot to work. With a prime location in the heart of Silicon Valley, you’ll be surrounded by the innovative, high-energy of the tech industry—and amazing places to live, starting with these six neighborhoods.
These communities—popular among LinkedIn employees—are close enough for an easy commute to LinkedIn but far enough that you’ll feel “away” when you aren’t in your office. Though unique, each of these towns promises some essential must-haves—think A+ schools, ample access to bike trails, tons of community events, and walkable downtowns filled with great restaurants and more.
Mountain View
At about half the population size of Sunnyvale, this small hamlet offers a close-knit community that is a favorite with young families. From weekend farmer’s markets to festivals, there’s always something going on to entertain the kids and give you a chance to connect with neighbors.
When the weather is nice, as it usually is, you’ll find locals biking along Stevens Creek Trail, sailing in Shoreline Lake Park or swimming in the Eagle Park Pool. Year-round, residents also take advantage of the many happenings, boutique shops and local eateries along downtown Castro Street.
In addition to the small-town atmosphere, Mountain View is a popular choice for its highly-rated public school system.
Los Altos
For those wanting a quiet and friendly neighborhood with a convenient commute to LinkedIn, Los Altos is the place to be. This town is known for its extremely low crime rate, excellent public schools and modern homes on large lots.
Living in Los Altos gives you a break from the hustle of Sunnyvale, but there’s still plenty to do on the weekends. You’ll often run into a friend as you’re jogging along the San Andreas Fault Trail, selecting fresh produce at the farmer’s market, playing a round at the Los Altos Golf and Country Club or walking downtown to dinner.
Palo Alto
Despite being home to Stanford University, this diverse suburb is more than just a college town. It’s also a kid-friendly neighborhood with excellent community amenities like high-ranking public schools with specialized and language immersion programs that start in elementary school, many private schools to choose from and rec leagues for all ages.
Locals love to spend their free time outside, hiking at the Stanford Dish recreation area or swimming and playing tennis at one of the many clubs in town. Many kids spend their summer participating in one of the engaging camps offered through Stanford.
Between the train, ride shares, and bike trails, there are many different options for commuting to Sunnyvale.
Since you’ll spend less than an hour each day commuting to LinkedIn, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the evenings with your family. Take a bike ride through the leafy suburb, walk downtown for trivia night at The Rose & Crown or grab some pie to go from the beloved Palo Alto Creamery.
Woodside
Woodside is a popular, family-friendly spot that seems less polished than Menlo Park and Palo Alto. If you like the feel of Marin County, but need to live closer to Silicon Valley, Woodside is a great choice.
This suburb is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It features tons of public green space and is an easy trip to both the mountains and the beach. This is a great choice for someone who wants more land (you won’t have any trouble finding a horse property in Woodside).
Families are very involved in the school system and this offers a built-in social network. Don’t be surprised if you run into a friend when you’re out to eat in this small town, especially if you pick the ever-popular Buck’s.
Woodside is about 20 miles from LinkedIn, but this commute allows you to enjoy life in a town that feels far from everything—but is incredibly close to all the action.
Los Gatos
Although just 20 minutes from Sunnyvale, this suburb feels like a world away. Los Gatos has an artistic flair that almost seems European. This town values culture and creativity, which is reflected in the colorful murals adorning downtown buildings and the variety of concerts put on each summer.
You won’t call this neighborhood sleepy—locals are always out enjoying the town. Whether they are volunteering, jogging on the Creek Trail or taking kids to swim practice, Los Gatos residents love being involved in their community.
South Los Gatos contains tight knit “mountain communities.” While people move here for the large lots (with excellent views) and privacy, neighbors are always willing to help each other out. This diverse community is located in the Loma Prieta Joint Union School District, which is popular with families interested in a smaller, more protected educational experience. The elementary and middle school sit on the same campus and feed into Los Gatos High School.
San Jose
San Jose is a diverse and environmentally-conscious town that frequently ranks as one of the best places to live. Despite its size, San Jose is spread out and features small close-knit pockets.
If you are looking for a quiet, family-friendly area, you might consider the Willow Glen neighborhood. This area, which is nicknamed “San Jose’s Local Treasure”, is known for its historic homes and summer festivals.
Those looking for a quiet area, with some of San Jose’s top-ranking schools, should consider the Cambrian neighborhood. This area is also known for its excellent youth community programs, swim clubs and sports teams.
The neighboring town of Campbell is another great spot offering a walkable downtown. During the spring and summer, Campbell hosts First Fridays which draws many local families. The area also has great nightlife options, an active community center and a strong hometown feel.
Almost everyone in town works in tech, which is no surprise since it’s a quick commute to Silicon Valley. Here, you’re about 30 minutes from the LinkedIn HQ.
With so many towns to choose from, where do you begin? Our suburb strategy team is here to help. Start by scheduling a strategy session to find the perfect suburb for your family.
Image Source: LinkedIn