Welcome to Pleasanton
Live, work, and play in an upscale and affluent land of opportunity
Tucked into an ideal location at the western edge of the Amador-Livermore "Tri-Valley" region is the city of Pleasanton. A wealthy, East Bay suburb of San Francisco, the city regularly ranks near the top of "Best Places to Live," with specific recognition from USA Today, Forbes, Money Magazine, and 24/7 Wall Street. One visit is all it takes to understand why.
Originally established in the mid-1850s, Pleasanton was for many years a rural outpost for miners heading to and from the California goldfields. Later, the railroads came to town and began Pleasanton's penchant for reinvention, paving the way for the prosperous area it has become.
Today, Pleasanton boasts a population of over 80,000 residents, and it continues to flourish. Highlighted by extraordinary schools, outstanding community events, and outdoor recreational opportunities, a commitment to growing its economic base (Safeway Supermarkets and Workday, Inc, are headquartered here), and preservation of the city's history, it's one of the few places that can genuinely offer a little something for everyone.
What to Love
- The opportunity to live, work, and play in a thriving, upscale community
- Historic Downtown Pleasanton
- Extraordinary schools—one of the top 10 districts in the state
- Outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities
People & Lifestyle
At one time, Pleasanton served as an agricultural hub, a horse-breeding center, and later a sleepy little suburb to the larger Bay Area metro areas. In other words, a diverse lifestyle has been the rule and not the exception for the city. This persists today, reflected in the area's demographics.
Pleasanton is a rare suburb where conditions are ideal for the live-work-play lifestyle. The median age is 42 years and established, growing families prevail; excellent schools, abundant business opportunities, and well-planned neighborhoods are a critical draw for those looking to relocate.
However, there is a large percentage of young professionals, ages 25 to 34, both with and without families, making a home here. The youth movement has transitioned Pleasanton from a one-time bedroom community into a lively city with numerous dining and entertainment options.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
When deciding where to shop or dine in Pleasanton, start downtown. Pick an adjective—charming, quaint, historic—and it's sure to fit. Claiming over 500 businesses, it's easy to spend a few days wandering the streets trying to take in everything offered.
A few dining highlights include the European eatery Nonni's Bistro, the lively Beer Baron Whiskey Bar & Kitchen, and the tucked-away Bunso Breads Bakery & Cafe. Also in the central business district is Meadowlark Dairy, a unique drive-through ice cream and small bites shop. Just north of downtown is the excellent Press Cafe.
In the city's northern section is the well-appointed Stoneridge Shopping Center, anchored by a Nordstrom, Macy's and Cheesecake Factory. Nearby is the popular western chain Black Bear Diner.
Seeing as you're near the gateway to California wine country, sample some Tri-Valley wines at the highly regarded Rubino Estates Winery.
Pleasanton also benefits from its proximity to the shopping mecca of Dublin along the city's northern border. The San Francisco Premium Outlets occupy a small segment of Pleasanton's northeast corner, too, shared with neighboring Livermore.
Things to Do
Downtown features the city's popular farmers market, and the nearby Alameda County Fairgrounds offers a wealth of activities. The area features horse racing and an equestrian center, executive golf course and driving range (and footgolf), an urban farm, and frequent car shows and home and garden expos. The Alameda County Fair happens every year from mid-June to mid-July.
To the south of the fairgrounds is the massive Bernal Community Park and its Patelco Sports Complex's youth athletic fields, playgrounds and picnic areas, and athletic walking and jogging trails.
Pleasanton features over 1,200 acres of parks and open space, including over 15 miles of trails. A particular highlight is the Castleridge Trail, which provides stunning vistas and access to the adjacent 5,271-acre Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park just beyond the city's western border.
Schools
Pleasanton is home to the exceptional Pleasanton Unified School District, one of the top 10 school districts in California. Some of the highest-rated academic institutions in the district include:
- Fairlands Elementary School, K-5
- Harvest Park Middle School, 6-8
- Amador Valley High School, 9-12