Serving All of San Francisco East Bay, CA

Welcome to the San Francisco East Bay, California, home to some of the best tattoo shops alongside rolling hills, diverse neighborhoods, and constant innovation. This area stretches from San Francisco Bay's shores to the Diablo Range peaks, mixing natural beauty, cultural depth, and economic opportunity that captures what California living really means.

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The East Bay's dramatic landscape gives you outdoor fun all year long. Mount Diablo State Park has hiking trails with views reaching from the Sierra Nevada to the Pacific Ocean. The regional parks include favorites like Tilden Regional Park in the Berkeley Hills and Anthony Chabot Regional Park in Castro Valley. The San Francisco Bay Trail hugs the waterfront, linking parks and giving you great spots for walks, bike rides, and bird watching.

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East Bay life shows off California's bold spirit and drive for change. Oakland's busy downtown brings you top-notch restaurants, live music spots, and the classic Fox Theater. Berkeley's Telegraph Avenue buzzes with brainy energy, indie bookshops, and quirky cafes that shaped counterculture for decades. Local farmers markets, from Berkeley to Walnut Creek, highlight the region's farming roots and green living values.

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The East Bay shows you where California's natural wonder meets fresh ideas, building communities that respect both the environment and tech progress, making it an amazing place to call home, work, and grow.

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East Bay's Urban Energy

The San Francisco East Bay masterfully balances metropolitan sophistication with California's relaxed outdoor lifestyle, creating vibrant communities that attract residents and visitors from around the world. Oakland's downtown core features a renaissance of urban living, with converted warehouses, artisanal coffee roasters, and farm-to-table restaurants that celebrate the region's culinary innovation and commitment to local sourcing.

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Cultural attractions define the East Bay experience, with destinations like the Oakland Museum of California and Berkeley's UC Botanical Garden. These institutions invite exploration of the region's heritage through compelling exhibitions, public art installations, and educational programs. Annual celebrations like Oakland's Art + Soul Festival and Berkeley's Solano Stroll bring communities together in celebration of creativity and neighborhood pride.

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The East Bay champions environmental consciousness and sustainable urban development. Green spaces such as Lake Merritt in Oakland and Cesar Chavez Park in Berkeley provide peaceful settings for recreation, community gatherings, and nature appreciation. The region's emphasis on public transportation, bike-friendly infrastructure, and renewable energy initiatives reflects its leadership in sustainable metropolitan planning.

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East Bay neighborhoods are distinct and welcoming, each contributing unique character to the regional tapestry. From the historic charm of Alameda's Victorian homes to the modern developments of Emeryville's waterfront, the East Bay offers residential options suited to every lifestyle. The area's excellent public schools, safe communities, and abundant cultural and recreational amenities make it an ideal place to establish roots.

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Whether drawn by its proximity to San Francisco, thriving innovation economy, rich cultural scene, or stunning natural surroundings, the East Bay delivers an exceptional quality of life that embodies the best of California living.

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Neighborhoods and Zip Codes of San Francisco East Bay, CA

The San Francisco East Bay encompasses diverse neighborhoods and cities, each with distinctive character, community spirit, and scenic appeal. Here's a guide to key East Bay areas with their corresponding zip codes:

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Oakland (94501-94615):

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Oakland is the East Bay's largest city, featuring diverse neighborhoods from the hills to the bay. Downtown Oakland (94612) offers urban loft living, while neighborhoods like Rockridge (94618) provide tree-lined streets with craftsman homes and boutique shopping. The Lake Merritt area (94610) combines urban amenities with waterfront recreation, making it popular among young professionals and families seeking city convenience with natural beauty.

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Berkeley (94701-94710):

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Berkeley is renowned for its intellectual atmosphere and progressive values, home to the University of California campus. The Gourmet Ghetto area (94708) features world-class dining and specialty food shops, while the Berkeley Hills (94705, 94707) offer stunning bay views and hiking trails. Telegraph Avenue (94704) maintains its historic counterculture vibe with independent bookstores, cafes, and music venues.

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Alameda (94501-94502):

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Alameda is an island city known for its Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, and family-friendly atmosphere. The city features beautiful beaches at Crown Memorial State Beach and Alameda Point, a former naval air station now transformed into residential and recreational space. Its small-town feel combined with easy ferry access to San Francisco makes it attractive to commuters and families.

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Emeryville (94608):

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Emeryville is a compact city between Oakland and Berkeley, known for its bayfront location and modern developments. The city features shopping at Bay Street and innovative companies like Pixar Animation Studios. Its waterfront parks and easy transit connections make it popular among professionals working in both the East Bay and San Francisco.

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Fremont (94536-94539):

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Fremont is a large suburban city in the southern East Bay, offering family-friendly neighborhoods and excellent schools. The city encompasses diverse areas from Ardenwood Historic Farm to the rolling hills near Mission Peak Regional Preserve. Its central location provides easy access to Silicon Valley and the greater Bay Area.

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Hayward (94540-94545):

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Hayward combines suburban residential areas with natural attractions like the Hayward Regional Shoreline and the hills of the East Bay Regional Parks. The city offers affordable housing options and a growing downtown area with restaurants and cultural venues. California State University East Bay adds educational and cultural vitality to the community.

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San Leandro (94577-94579):

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San Leandro features a mix of residential neighborhoods and industrial areas, with a growing downtown district and marina. The city offers more affordable housing than many Bay Area locations while maintaining good schools and parks. Its location between Oakland and Hayward provides convenient access to regional transportation.

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Dublin (94568):

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Dublin has experienced significant growth, transforming from a small agricultural town to a thriving suburban community. The city features modern shopping centers, excellent schools, and easy BART access for commuters. Its location near the Altamont Pass provides access to hiking trails and open space preserves.

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Pleasanton (94566-94588):

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Pleasanton is known for its highly-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and downtown area featuring restaurants, boutiques, and the historic Alameda County Fairgrounds. The city maintains a small-town atmosphere while offering modern amenities and easy access to regional employment centers.

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Livermore (94550-94551):

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Livermore combines suburban living with rural charm, famous for its wine country and the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The downtown area features antique shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, while the surrounding hills offer hiking and wine tasting opportunities.

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Castro Valley (94546):

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Castro Valley is an unincorporated community nestled in the hills between Hayward and San Leandro. Known for its excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods, the area offers suburban living with easy access to regional parks and hiking trails.

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San Ramon (94582-94583):

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San Ramon is a planned community known for its modern subdivisions, excellent schools, and corporate headquarters. The city features extensive parks, golf courses, and the Bishop Ranch business park, making it attractive to families and professionals.

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Walnut Creek (94595-94598):

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Walnut Creek serves as a regional shopping and entertainment destination with its downtown area featuring upscale dining, theaters, and boutiques. The city offers suburban neighborhoods, excellent schools, and easy BART access to San Francisco and Oakland.

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With its diverse communities offering everything from urban energy to suburban tranquility, the East Bay provides residential options to match any lifestyle preference. Whether seeking the cultural vibrancy of Berkeley, the family-friendly atmosphere of Pleasanton, or the urban sophistication of Oakland, the East Bay has a neighborhood ready to welcome new residents.

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Income and Education in San Francisco East Bay, CA

The San Francisco East Bay represents one of California's most economically dynamic regions, with a diverse economy spanning technology, biotechnology, education, manufacturing, and port operations. The region's proximity to Silicon Valley and San Francisco, combined with major institutions like UC Berkeley and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, creates a robust economic environment. This economic diversity contributes to household incomes that support comfortable living standards, making the East Bay attractive to professionals, entrepreneurs, and families seeking opportunity and quality of life.

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Education excellence defines the East Bay's character, with a substantial portion of residents holding advanced degrees. The region benefits from outstanding public school districts, including those in Pleasanton, San Ramon, and Dublin, which consistently rank among California's top performers. These districts offer comprehensive academic programs, advanced placement courses, and extensive extracurricular activities designed to prepare students for higher education and career success.

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The East Bay's educational landscape includes exceptional private and independent schools serving diverse learning needs and philosophies. The region hosts world-renowned higher education institutions, led by UC Berkeley, consistently ranked among the world's top public universities. California State University East Bay, Mills College, and Holy Names University provide additional undergraduate and graduate opportunities, while community colleges like Ohlone College and Chabot College offer accessible pathways to four-year institutions and career training.

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These educational institutions create a highly skilled workforce that drives regional innovation and economic growth. Research conducted at UC Berkeley and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory contributes to advances in technology, renewable energy, and scientific discovery. The region's commitment to educational excellence and economic innovation ensures continued prosperity and opportunity for residents and businesses alike.

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Schools in San Francisco East Bay, CA

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Public Schools:

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The East Bay is served by numerous public school districts, many ranking among California's highest-performing systems. Notable districts and schools include:

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Pleasanton Unified School District:

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Pleasanton Unified consistently ranks among California's top districts, serving students from kindergarten through high school. Amador Valley High School and Foothill High School both offer rigorous academic programs, extensive AP course selections, and championship athletic programs. The district's elementary and middle schools, including Walters Middle School and Vintage Hills Elementary, provide strong foundations in core academics while fostering creativity and critical thinking.

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San Ramon Valley Unified School District:

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This district serves Dublin, San Ramon, and Danville, offering excellent educational opportunities across all grade levels. California High School and San Ramon Valley High School feature comprehensive academic programs, award-winning performing arts departments, and competitive athletics. The district's commitment to technology integration and innovative teaching methods prepares students for success in higher education and modern careers.

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Fremont Unified School District:

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Fremont Unified serves one of California's most diverse student populations, with programs designed to support multilingual learners and celebrate cultural diversity. American High School and Mission San Jose High School offer strong academic programs, including specialized STEM tracks and career technical education pathways.

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Berkeley Unified School District:

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Berkeley Unified emphasizes social justice, academic excellence, and creative expression. Berkeley High School offers a comprehensive curriculum including unique programs like the Berkeley International High School and extensive arts offerings. The district's elementary schools, such as Thousand Oaks and Rosa Parks, provide innovative approaches to learning in diverse, inclusive environments.

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Oakland Unified School District:

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Oakland Unified serves the East Bay's largest city with schools ranging from traditional programs to innovative charter schools. Notable schools include Oakland Technical High School, known for its health and bioscience programs, and Skyline High School, which offers International Baccalaureate programs and strong college preparation.

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Private Schools:

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Head-Royce School (Oakland):

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Head-Royce is an independent school serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Located in Oakland's hills, the school emphasizes academic rigor, character development, and community service. Its beautiful campus and small class sizes provide personalized attention and strong college preparation.

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The Athenian School (Danville):

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The Athenian School offers a progressive educational experience for grades 6-12, emphasizing critical thinking, creative expression, and global awareness. The school's innovative curriculum includes a required wilderness program and international exchange opportunities.

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Bishop O'Dowd High School (Oakland):

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Bishop O'Dowd is a Catholic college preparatory school known for its rigorous academics, championship athletics, and commitment to social justice. The school offers extensive AP courses, award-winning performing arts programs, and strong college counseling.

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Bentley School (Lafayette):

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Bentley School provides education from kindergarten through 12th grade with an emphasis on academic excellence, character development, and creative expression. The school's beautiful campus in the Lafayette hills offers small classes and individualized attention.

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Higher Education:

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University of California, Berkeley:

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UC Berkeley stands as one of the world's premier public research universities, offering undergraduate and graduate programs across virtually every academic discipline. The campus's Nobel Prize-winning faculty, cutting-edge research facilities, and diverse student body create an intellectually stimulating environment. UC Berkeley's schools of engineering, business, law, and public policy consistently rank among the nation's best.

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California State University, East Bay:

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Cal State East Bay, with campuses in Hayward and Concord, provides accessible, high-quality education with strong programs in business, education, health sciences, and liberal arts. The university emphasizes hands-on learning, community engagement, and preparing students for regional career opportunities.

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Mills College (Oakland):

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Mills College is a private liberal arts institution known for its strong programs in education, social work, and the arts. The college's beautiful Oakland campus and commitment to social justice attract students seeking personalized education and meaningful career preparation.

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Holy Names University (Oakland):

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Holy Names University offers undergraduate and graduate programs with emphasis on ethics, social responsibility, and academic excellence. The university's programs in nursing, education, and business prepare students for service-oriented careers.

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Ohlone College:

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Ohlone College serves Fremont, Newark, and surrounding communities with associate degree programs, career technical education, and transfer preparation to four-year universities. The college's strong partnerships with local employers ensure relevant, practical education.

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Chabot College (Hayward):

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Chabot College offers comprehensive community college education with transfer programs, career training, and continuing education. The college's beautiful campus and strong student support services help students achieve their educational and career goals.

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The East Bay's educational system reflects its commitment to excellence, innovation, and opportunity. From outstanding public schools to world-class universities, the region provides educational pathways that prepare students for success in an increasingly complex world while fostering the critical thinking and creativity that drive regional prosperity.

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Public Transportation and Major Highways in San Francisco East Bay, CA

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The San Francisco East Bay benefits from one of the nation's most comprehensive transportation networks, connecting diverse communities while providing efficient access to San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and the greater Bay Area. From rapid transit systems to extensive highway networks, the East Bay ensures mobility and accessibility for residents, workers, and visitors.

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Public Transportation:

Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART):

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BART serves as the East Bay's primary rapid transit system, connecting Oakland, Berkeley, Fremont, Dublin, and other cities to San Francisco and Silicon Valley. The system operates multiple lines including the Richmond-Fremont line through Oakland and Berkeley, the Fremont-Daly City line serving southern East Bay communities, and the Dublin/Pleasanton line serving Tri-Valley areas. BART stations feature parking facilities, bike storage, and connections to local bus systems.

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AC Transit:

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Alameda-Contra Costa Transit provides comprehensive bus service throughout the East Bay with over 100 routes connecting neighborhoods, employment centers, and BART stations. AC Transit operates regular local routes, Rapid routes with limited stops, and Transbay routes connecting East Bay communities directly to San Francisco. The system includes electric buses and commitment to sustainable transportation.

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County Connection:

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County Connection serves central Contra Costa County, including Walnut Creek, Concord, and surrounding areas. The system provides local routes, express services, and connections to BART stations, supporting commuters and local travel throughout the region.

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Tri Delta Transit:

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Tri Delta Transit serves eastern Contra Costa County, including Antioch, Pittsburg, and Brentwood. The system provides local routes, express services to BART, and specialized services for seniors and disabled passengers.

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Oakland Ferry Services:

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Ferry services operate from Oakland's Jack London Square to San Francisco Ferry Building and Alameda to San Francisco, providing scenic alternatives to bridge crossings. These services offer beautiful bay views while connecting East Bay waterfront communities to San Francisco.

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Caltrain:

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While primarily serving the Peninsula, Caltrain connects to the East Bay through transfer opportunities at San Francisco stations and planned future connections, supporting regional mobility throughout the Bay Area.

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Amtrak:

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Amtrak's Capitol Corridor provides daily service connecting the East Bay to Sacramento, with stops in Oakland, Berkeley, and Richmond. The San Joaquins route connects to Central Valley destinations, while the Coast Starlight provides long-distance service to Los Angeles and Seattle.

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Oakland International Airport (OAK):

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Oakland International Airport serves as a major gateway for East Bay residents, offering domestic and international flights with convenient access via BART's airport connector and highway connections. The airport features numerous airlines and destinations while maintaining more manageable size compared to San Francisco International.

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Major Highways:

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Interstate 80 (I-80):

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I-80 serves as the primary east-west highway through the northern East Bay, connecting San Francisco via the Bay Bridge through Oakland, Berkeley, and continuing to Sacramento and beyond. The highway provides access to downtown Oakland, UC Berkeley, and numerous East Bay communities while serving as a critical commercial and commuter route.

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Interstate 880 (I-880):

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I-880 runs north-south through the East Bay from Oakland to San Jose, providing the primary highway connection through cities including San Leandro, Hayward, Fremont, and Newark. The highway connects to major employment centers and serves as a crucial link between the East Bay and Silicon Valley.

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Interstate 580 (I-580):

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I-580 connects the East Bay to the Central Valley, running east-west from San Rafael through Oakland, Castro Valley, Dublin, and Livermore before crossing the Altamont Pass. The highway serves commuters traveling between the Bay Area and Central Valley while providing access to Tri-Valley communities.

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Interstate 680 (I-680):

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I-680 runs north-south through the eastern East Bay, connecting Walnut Creek, San Ramon, Dublin, and Pleasanton to Silicon Valley. The highway serves as a primary commuter route for residents of these communities working throughout the Bay Area.

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State Route 24 (SR-24):

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SR-24 connects Oakland through the Caldecott Tunnel to Walnut Creek and beyond, providing critical east-west connectivity through the Berkeley Hills. The highway serves commuters traveling between central Contra Costa County and Oakland while providing access to recreational areas.

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State Route 13 (SR-13):

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SR-13 runs north-south through the Oakland Hills, connecting downtown Oakland to Berkeley and providing scenic routes through residential neighborhoods. The highway offers an alternative to I-580 while serving hillside communities.

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State Route 92 (SR-92):

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SR-92 connects the East Bay to the Peninsula via the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge, providing east-west connectivity and serving as an alternative to other bay crossings for travelers between the East Bay and Peninsula.

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State Route 4 (SR-4):

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SR-4 serves eastern Contra Costa County, connecting Antioch, Pittsburg, and other delta communities to the central East Bay and Bay Area. The highway provides access to recreational areas while serving growing residential communities.

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The East Bay's comprehensive transportation infrastructure ensures residents and visitors can navigate the region efficiently while connecting to the broader Bay Area. Whether commuting locally or traveling regionally, the East Bay's diverse transportation options support the mobility needs of its dynamic communities while promoting sustainable travel alternatives.

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Things To Do in San Francisco East Bay, CA

From stunning bay views to world-class cultural institutions, the San Francisco East Bay offers diverse activities for visitors of all interests within easy reach of Berkeley. Here are five exceptional experiences within a 30-45 minute drive from 2812 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, CA.

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UC Berkeley Campus and Botanical Garden

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