Living In

Oakland is one of the most diverse cities in the United States stemming from its history as a hub for immigration. Known for sustainability as well as dining, art, cultural, and entertainment opportunities, downtown Oakland is home to a wide variety of art galleries, shops, businesses, and restaurants along with an array of professional sports teams such as MLB’s Oakland Athletics and the NBA’s Golden State Warriors. 

For those who show an affinity for the outdoors, Oakland’s natural features such as Lake Meritt, the oldest wildlife sanctuary in the country, offer an immense amount of greenery, perfect for picnicking and enjoying a warm spring or summer day. Some Major Annual Events include: Oakland Restaurant Week, Chinatown Lunar New Year Bazaar, the Oaktown Half Marathon, Chinatown Street Festival, Oakland Pride Parade & Festival, and Oaktoberfest in the Diamond.

Schools

Oakland Unified School District features both public and charter school options alike. The city also offers options for those looking for a higher education at California College of the Arts, Lincoln University, and San Francisco State University.

Utilities

• Water: East Bay Municipal Utility District
• Gas & Electricity: Pacific Gas and Electric Company
• Garbage & Recycling: California Waste Solutions and Waste Management are partners to provide curbside trash pickup on a weekly basis. There is also a Zero Waste Program in effect whose goal is to maximize recycling and natural composting efforts.