A vibrant island East Bay city with top schools, standout community vibes, and quick San Francisco access
Welcome to Alameda, a unique Bay Area city that delivers the best of both worlds: laid-back suburban living with an urban edge. Nestled on Alameda Island and Bay Farm Island, just across the bay from San Francisco, this tight-knit community of 75,000 residents, is known for its walkability, welcoming feel, and stunning Victorian architecture. It’s no wonder Alameda is often called “Mayberry by the Bay.”
Family-Friendly Schools & Walkable Neighborhoods
Alameda’s neighborhood school system is a standout. Kids are assigned to a resident school determined by their home address, making it easy to connect with classmates who live nearby. And the schools themselves shine with the Alameda Unified School District (AUSD) earning an “A” rating on Niche.
AUSD serves the needs of some 9,000 students from pre-school through high school. Their nine elementary schools, four middle schools, and four high schools offer a wide range of educational opportunities, including neighborhood schools, STEAM programs, intervention services, arts integration, and newcomer classes for students who have recently arrived in this country. Their high schools have strong Career Technical Education programs, including broadcast journalism, sports medicine, childcare, and genomics, as well as a full array of honors, AP, and visual and performing arts classes. Their continuation program at Island High School supports students needing support to graduate; their magnet high school, the Alameda Science and Technology Institute, offers an Early College Program that provides students opportunities to earn college credits and/or an Associate of Arts degree while still enrolled in high school.
Many families also love that their kids can walk or bike to school, a major plus in this safe, sidewalk-lined island community.
Preschool options abound, with everything from Montessori to bilingual programs available in town and nearby.
Easy Bay Area Commutes
While BART doesn’t come to the island itself, residents have great options. Bike or drive to nearby Fruitvale, Lake Merritt, or West Oakland stations, or skip the train and hop on the ferry. Alameda’s Main Street (40 minutes), Harbor Bay (25 minutes) and Seaplane (20 minutes) ferries take you to San Francisco in under an hour. Many commuters prefer the scenic, stress-free ferry ride over other routes.
Add in AC Transit buses, casual carpools, and close proximity to Oakland International Airport, and Alameda offers excellent access to the entire Bay Area and beyond.
Tons to Do, Right on the Island
Alameda offers an incredible array of local events, cultural institutions, and family-friendly fun. Residents love:
- Crown Memorial State Beach
- USS Hornet Museum
- Alameda Theatre & Cineplex
- Faction Brewing
- Rhythmix Cultural Works
- Alameda Recreation and Parks’ classes and events
- Aquatech Swim School
- Twirl indoor play space
Want more? You’re just minutes from Fairyland, the Oakland Zoo, and additional attractions across the bridge.
Food & Shopping
Park Street is Alameda’s buzzing main drag, filled with locally loved eateries, coffee shops, and independent stores. Nearby Webster Street and South Shore Center offer even more dining and shopping options, from big-name retailers to weekly farmers markets. Plus, you’ll find Trader Joe’s, Safeway, and even a Costco just off the island.
Can’t-Miss Alameda Events
Community pride shines during Alameda’s 4th of July Parade, one of the largest in the nation, as well as other favorites like:
- Downtown Alameda Art & Wine Faire (July)
- Sandcastle & Sculpture Contest (June)
- Alameda Point Antiques Faire (first Sunday of every month)
Why Families Love Alameda
Whether you’re drawn to the excellent schools, easy SF access, or true community feel, Alameda offers a lifestyle that stands out. It’s a place where families stay connected, kids can walk to school, and weekends are packed with local fun.
Thinking of making a move? Alameda could be just what you’re looking for. Schedule a free initial strategy call with Suburban Jungle today.
