Living Near Brentwood: Best Cities for Homebuyers
Brentwood, CA, is a sought-after community, but nearby cities offer more affordable housing, different amenities, and unique lifestyles. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for luxury living, these cities near Brentwood are worth considering.
1. Oakley, CA – Small-Town Charm with Affordable Homes
Distance from Brentwood: 5 miles | Drive Time: 10 minutes
Oakley offers a family-friendly atmosphere with more affordable homes, community events, and access to Delta waterways for boating and fishing.
Just 5 miles from Brentwood, with a short drive time of approximately 10 minutes. This city of nearly 50,000 residents boasts a family-friendly atmosphere, surrounded by gently rolling hills and picturesque country lanes. Oakley’s housing market is particularly attractive, with homes ranging from $300,000 to $900,000 and sizes varying from 1,100 to 3,600 square feet. The city features a mix of craftsman bungalows, two-story stucco homes, and Spanish revival-style options, many of which have been updated to appeal to modern families.
Residents enjoy access to numerous parks, trails, and the nearby Delta waterways, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Additionally, Oakley’s Mediterranean climate, quality schools, and community-centered events contribute to its high quality of life. For those seeking a balance between suburban comfort and natural beauty, Oakley presents an attractive option with its affordable housing and small-town atmosphere, all within easy reach of urban centers like San Francisco and Sacramento.
2. Antioch, CA – Budget-Friendly Option for Bay Area Commuters
Distance from Brentwood: 10 miles | Drive Time: 15 minutes
Antioch is perfect for commuters with BART access to San Francisco and lower home prices than Brentwood.
Antioch, CA offers a budget-friendly option for Bay Area commuters, located approximately 10 miles from Brentwood with a drive time of about 15 minutes. This city provides an affordable housing market, with homes ranging from $250,000 to $600,000 and sizes varying from 900 to 2,500 square feet. Antioch features a mix of older homes and newer developments, offering a diverse range of architectural styles. Residents enjoy access to parks, the Delta waterways, and community events, contributing to its appeal as a family-friendly environment.
Additionally, Antioch’s proximity to major highways and public transportation makes it an attractive choice for those commuting to nearby cities like San Francisco and Oakland. The city’s economic landscape includes retail, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors, providing a stable base for local employment. Overall, Antioch presents a balance of affordability and accessibility, making it a popular choice for Bay Area residents seeking a more budget-friendly lifestyle.
3. Discovery Bay, CA – A Waterfront Community for Luxury Living
Distance from Brentwood: 10 miles | Drive Time: 15 minutes
If you love waterfront views and boating, Discovery Bay provides luxury homes with private docks and marina access.
Discovery Bay, CA, located about 10 miles from Brentwood with a drive time of approximately 15 minutes, offers a unique blend of luxury living and waterfront activities. This charming community is renowned for its stunning waterfront homes, many of which feature private docks and breathtaking views of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Homes in Discovery Bay range from $800,000 to over $2 million, with sizes varying from 1,692 to 6,230 square feet.
The area is particularly appealing to boating enthusiasts, thanks to the Discovery Bay Marina, which provides extensive amenities including wet slips, dry storage, and access to over 1,100 miles of waterways. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water sports, making Discovery Bay an ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious waterfront lifestyle.
4. Pittsburg, CA – Affordable Homes with Strong Rental Potential
Distance from Brentwood: 15 miles | Drive Time: 20 minutes
Pittsburg is a great investment area with affordable homes, a strong rental market, and convenient commuter access.
Pittsburg, CA, located approximately 15 miles from Brentwood with a drive time of about 20 minutes, offers a promising investment opportunity with its affordable homes, robust rental market, and convenient access for commuters. The city’s housing market is competitive, with median home prices around $555,000, and a strong rental market featuring average rents ranging from $1,969 to $2,485 per month, depending on the source and property type.
Homes in Pittsburg vary in size and style, providing options for both families and investors. The area’s proximity to major transportation routes and nearby cities like Antioch and Concord enhances its appeal for those working in the Bay Area. Additionally, Pittsburg’s diverse community and local amenities contribute to its attractiveness as a place to live and invest.
5. Concord, CA – The Best of Suburban & Urban Living
Distance from Brentwood: 25 miles | Drive Time: 35 minutes
Concord, CA, located approximately 25 miles from Brentwood with a drive time of about 35 minutes, offers a blend of professional opportunities and lifestyle benefits. This vibrant city in the East Bay region boasts a median home price of $763,000, with an average home size of 1,590 square feet1. Concord’s housing market includes a range of options, from older homes to newer developments, with prices varying based on location and amenities.
The city is renowned for its top-rated schools, making it an attractive choice for families. Concord’s downtown area, centered around Todos Santos Plaza, features a mix of cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues. The plaza hosts a popular farmers’ market, community events, and live music, enhancing its appeal for professionals and families alike.
Concord’s proximity to major transportation routes and its position in the East Bay region make it a convenient hub for those commuting to nearby cities like San Francisco and Oakland. The city provides a balanced environment that combines career opportunities with a high quality of life, making it an ideal choice for professionals seeking both work and lifestyle benefits.
Best Cities Near Brentwood for Commuters
If you’re commuting to the Bay Area, these cities offer great transit options and job access:
- Walnut Creek, CA: High-paying job market, BART access
- Pleasanton, CA: Tech industry, excellent schools
- Livermore, CA: Wine country with a growing business sector
Best Day Trips from Brentwood, CA
Looking for a weekend escape? Check out these easy day trips from Brentwood:
- San Francisco (1 hour): Explore iconic landmarks, museums, and dining.
- Sacramento (1.5 hours): Visit historic Old Sacramento and top-rated restaurants.
- Napa Valley (1 hour): Enjoy world-class wine tasting and beautiful scenery.
- Lake Tahoe (3 hours): Perfect for skiing, hiking, and lake views.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best City Near Brentwood, CA
Whether you’re looking for a new home, better commute options, or fun weekend destinations, there are many great cities near Brentwood to explore.
- 🏡 Best for Homebuyers: Oakley & Antioch
- 🚆 Best for Commuters: Walnut Creek & Pleasanton
- 🌊 Best for Luxury Living: Discovery Bay
- 🍷 Best for Weekend Trips: Napa Valley & San Francisco
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Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries about cities near Brentwood, CA. It covers smaller cities, the best living options, distances, affluence, neighboring cities, and the existence of other Brentwoods in California.
What are some smaller cities in proximity to Brentwood, CA?
Nearby smaller cities include Oakley, Antioch, and Discovery Bay. These towns offer a suburban atmosphere with access to amenities and outdoor activities.
Which cities are considered the best to live in near Brentwood, CA?
Cities like Walnut Creek and Danville are often highlighted as desirable places to live. They provide good schools, parks, and a variety of dining and shopping options.
How far is Oakley, CA from Brentwood, CA?
Oakley is approximately 10 miles from Brentwood. The drive typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Is Brentwood in California known for affluence?
Brentwood is recognized for its upscale neighborhoods and well-maintained parks. The area attracts families looking for suburban charm combined with quality amenities.
What are the neighboring cities to Brentwood in the Los Angeles area?
While Brentwood itself is not in Los Angeles, nearby cities include Los Angeles County cities like Westwood and Santa Monica. These cities are recognized for their vibrant culture and entertainment.
Does California have more than one city named Brentwood?
Yes, California has multiple locations named Brentwood. Aside from the one in Contra Costa County, there is also a neighborhood in Los Angeles. Each has its own distinct characteristics and communities.
Laura Zamora
Broker-Associate, eXp Realty
DRE# 01819120