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Kathryn's review of Alameda California
Are you thinking of moving or relocating to Alameda, California? Would you like to know what the quality of life is like living in Alameda?
| Weather | | Safety | | Neighborhoods | | People | | The weather in Alameda is fairly mild. Winter's don't bring too many downpours, and summers don't soar into the triple digits. Given it's proximity to the water,wind is somewhat constant, and the temperatures are always at least 10 degrees cooler than inland spots. Spring temperatures hover around the mid to upper 60s, and summers are comfortable in the 70s, with the occasional 80s an 90s. February and the winter months bring rain, and the occasional thunder and lightning storms. | | The lack of crime in Alameda is shocking, especially given its proximity to Oakland. It's as though once you cross over one of the bridges leading into the island, you're safe! Head warning, however, if you go 26 in a 25mph zone, APD will ticket you. There's also a lot of low grade crime, petty theft, DUI. | | The best parts of town are Bay Farm Island, which houses a large Asian and white population. The homes in this area are fairly new, built in the 1990s. The Gold Coast and Fernside neighborhoods are also very nice, and safe. You will find mostly white families here - many of whom have lived in the area for decades. The Gold Coast is also home to the older Victorian homes many people think of when thinking about Alameda.
Of course, not all of Alameda is picture perfect, as with any city it has it's not so glamorous areas. The West side, beyond Webster is still feeling the effects of the Navy leaving town, and low income housing moving in. The city is taking great strides to revitalize this area, and it seems to be working, slowly but surely, but it's definitely still not the safest place in town. | | Alameda is a pretty eclectic town. It's becoming more and more popular among Asians, and educated hipsters who enjoy the great food choices and shops. The older people seem to be heading out, but the home prices and cost of living is keeping it out of reach for many younger people. However, those who can't afford to live there, can still enjoy visiting.
People who tend towards road rage will most definitely NOT like Alameda. As it's an island town,and the infrastructure was not built anticipating the mass influx of SF commuters and visitors. | | Downtown Area | | Restaurants | | Schools | | Single life | Park Street is now bustling, and new shops are still on the way! The small mom and pop feel is great, though it does mean a bit higher price. Parking is tight some times, especially on weekends, but it's clean and carries a wide variety of stores and eating establishments.
Target also just opened on the West side. | | Burma Superstar is renowned for it's delicious cuisine! And there are a ton of sushi spots. Sushi House is always packed, and good. For a quick and cheap bite, check out Viva Mexico! You can't go wrong with a carne asada burrito! | | Alameda schools are consistently ranked among the best. They maintain small class sizes, quality teachers, and excellent parks and after school programs. | | Alameda has it's fair share of bars, and not just the dive variety. While you won't find raging night clubs, you will find more intimate opportunities for meeting other singles, and plenty of spots to go once you find that special someone. | | Noise | | Compared to other places | | Best hospital | | Tourist attractions | | If you are anywhere near Bay Farm Island, you are fully aware of the LOUD noise brought on by incoming flights to the Oakland Airport. Especially those large FedEx planes. And when the weather is bad, they fly low, so it's even louder! | | Bordered by Oakland and San Leandro, Alameda truly is the best place to live! While the cost of living is high, it's worth it. The schools are top rated, the crime is minimal, and it's just a great place to grow up and raise a family, or if you're single, to enjoy some great shops and restaurants. Combine that with it's central location to all things great about the Bay Area, you've got an amazing place to live! | | Alameda Hospital may be local, but it's not recommended. I truly think there are more elderly volunteers than actual doctors and nurses there. | | On a clear warm day the beach is a must! The view across the bay to San Francisco is amazing, no matter if you're a local, or visiting!
And be sure to stroll along Park Street! You'll feel like your back in time! | | General comments | | | | | | | Though it's growing and changing, Alameda still maintains that small, 1950s hometown feel. It's the kind of place where your kid have the same teachers you did, and the store clerks all know your name - in fact, they remember when YOU were a kid.
Alameda leaves you with a feeling of being in your home town, even if you're not from there. It's quiet, clean, safe, and just an overall nice place to spend time! | | | | | | |
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