Concord, California

It’s hard to make a case for any city in the Bay Area as having affordable housing but the median home price of ~768k in May of 2023 is low for anywhere near a major city in California. Much of the housing stock is older, which accounts in part for the lower prices, but the city is also not as “hot” as neighboring cities like Pleasant Hill or Walnut Creek which have more developed city centers. What this means is that you’re next to cities with active city centers that you can visit but you then get to retreat to a quieter, and less expensive community in Concord.

There are cities in the east bay that people rave about: Alameda, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, etc. Generally these raves come from locals who appreciate the robust commercial districts that drive active social lives and strong community bonds. Since Concord has a quieter downtown scene it gets some knocks for being an “unremarkable” place for those who want their city to provide a local cultural and social center.

Concord is a suburban city that serves families that appreciate the lower cost of housing compared to neighboring cities. Hence a lifestyle that is driven by family activities. Todos Santos Plaza in the downtown district is the community gathering place of Concord. It plays host to summer concerts, a farmer’s market and events throughout the year. The Plaza also has a public park at its center with picnicking, and a large children’s playground pulling in families during the big events and just for downtown visits.

Outside of downtown the city also has a beautiful community park called Newhall. Locals flock here to hike, play with their kiddos and doggos, and families and singles also find themselves here for adult and youth soccer leagues. It also has ponds for contemplation and evening bocce and bbq’s for those in more festive moods. Concord is also home to the Pixieland Amusement Park and Six Flags/Hurricane Harbor, the Bay Area’s largest water park so while the city can be quiet, there is a ton to do with the kiddos.