Apartments for Rent in Oakland / Alameda, CA

Oakland skyline along Lake Merritt in California, with waterfront buildings and birds resting on platforms in the water.

Welcome to Oakland and Alameda: coastal living in the cultural center of East Bay

Consistently ranked as one of the top 25 cities to live in, Oakland and Alameda are known for having some of the best bay views, with miles of shoreline, great year-round weather, and one of the country's highest percentages of green spaces per capita. Whether you're looking for luxury Alameda apartments or community-style Oakland apartments for rent, Greystar offers a variety of living options in the area. Discover living in Oakland / Alameda with Greystar!

One of California's most beautiful urban areas

Oakland, known as "The Town," is home to a renowned arts scene and stands as the cultural center of East Bay. Despite being densely urban, the city also has abundant green spaces, estuaries, and lakes. Alameda, nicknamed "The Island City," offers a more laid-back lifestyle with its tree-lined streets and miles of shoreline.

Transportation and accessibility

Both Oakland and Alameda are well connected to the greater Bay Area. Oakland benefits from multiple BART stations, including 12th Street Oakland City Center and 19th Street. Alameda is served by AC Transit buses and the San Francisco Bay Ferry, offering scenic rides to San Francisco. For those looking at apartments for rent in Oakland / Alameda who commute to the surrounding areas for work, both cities provide excellent public transportation options.

Entertainment and outdoor recreation

Oakland's neighborhoods, like Rockridge, offer a mix of trendy shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. The Lake Merritt area is beloved by the city's residents, with walking paths, tennis courts, and kayaks for rent. Alameda is known for its beautiful beaches, like the Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach.

FAQs about Oakland and Alameda, CA

What are the best dining options in Oakland / Alameda?

When it comes to great restaurants, Oakland / Alameda has no shortage of must-try spots. Local favorites include The Wolf for California-American cuisine and MAMA Oakland for a modern take on Italian. Alameda's Alley & Vine and Asena are also popular options.

Is Oakland / Alameda fun for young people?

Oakland's Uptown district is perfect for young professionals, with a vibrant nightlife and a huge arts and culture scene. Visit the Fox Theater for live music or grab drinks at the beach shack-style Sandbar. Alameda offers a more relaxed atmosphere with local breweries like Almanac Beer Co.

What are the public transportation options in Oakland / Alameda?

Oakland and Alameda are well connected by public transit. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system serves the Oakland area, while AC Transit provides bus services throughout both cities. Alameda also offers a free weekend shuttle and ferry service to San Francisco.

Are there good outdoor recreation options in Oakland / Alameda?

Absolutely! With one of the highest percentages of green spaces per capita, Oakland has numerous parks, including Lake Merritt and Joaquin Miller Park. Alameda's Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach also offers swimming and windsurfing opportunities.

What's the shopping scene like in Oakland / Alameda?

Oakland's Rockridge neighborhood is home to College Avenue, lined with boutique shops and local businesses. In Alameda, explore Park Street in the downtown area for antique stores, bookshops, and artisanal gifts.

Is Oakland / Alameda pet-friendly?

Yes! Oakland / Alameda is incredibly pet-friendly, with many Greystar apartments in the area welcoming pets, like The Moran and Admirals Cove. The area has several dog parks, including Joaquina Miller Dog Park and Alameda Dog Park.

What's the average cost of living in Oakland / Alameda?

The cost of living in Oakland and Alameda is higher than the national average, reflecting the Bay Area's desirability, at 40% and 59% above, respectively. However, rent prices will vary by property depending on the style, location, amenities, and number of bedrooms.

What cultural attractions are there in Oakland / Alameda?

Oakland is home to the Oakland Museum of California, showcasing the state's art, history, and natural sciences. In Alameda, you can also visit the USS Hornet Museum for a unique historical experience aboard a real aircraft carrier.

How safe is the Oakland / Alameda area?

Safety varies by neighborhood in Oakland, with areas like Rockridge and Montclair considered quite safe. Alameda generally has lower crime rates and is known for its small-town feel.

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