East Bay, San Francisco County
Concord, San Francisco
The largest city in Contra Costa County with diverse housing and parks
Concord is an incorporated city in Contra Costa County, the largest city in the county, known for its diversity, its parks, and its central location. As a major residential and commercial center, Concord combines established neighborhoods with major employers in healthcare, retail, and government. The city is home to the Concord Pavilion and the Todos Santos Plaza, and its location at the intersection of major highways makes it a practical base for commuters.
History & Local Character
Concord was founded in 1869 and incorporated as a city in 1905. The city grew as an agricultural and residential community, with orchards and farms shaping its early economy. In the 20th century, Concord developed as a major suburban center, with residential neighborhoods and commercial areas. The city has grown into the largest city in Contra Costa County.
Neighborhoods & Communities
Downtown Concord centers on Todos Santos Plaza with shops, restaurants, and a farmers market. The residential areas include single-family homes and apartments. The area near the Concord Pavilion offers additional residential options, and the hills to the east offer hillside living with views.
Housing & Real Estate
Concord's housing market offers a range of options, from single-family homes to condos and apartments. Prices are moderate for the Bay Area, making the city popular with families and first-time buyers. The market is competitive, and the hillside areas command premium prices.
Restaurants & Shopping
Concord's dining scene reflects its diverse population, with a range of restaurants including Mexican, Asian, American, and international options. The downtown area and major streets offer local eateries, and the Todos Santos Plaza area has a growing restaurant scene.
Schools & Education
Mount Diablo Unified School District serves the city with public schools. The quality of schools varies by neighborhood. The city is near Cal State East Bay and Diablo Valley College for higher education.
Parks & Recreation
Concord maintains numerous parks, including Newhall Community Park and the Lime Ridge Open Space. The city is near Mount Diablo State Park for hiking and outdoor recreation. The Iron Horse Regional Trail runs through the city, providing a paved path for walking and biking.
Transportation & Accessibility
Concord is served by BART with several stations, connecting the city to San Francisco, Oakland, and the broader region. The city is at the intersection of Highway 4 and I-680, making it convenient to the rest of Contra Costa County and the East Bay. County Connection operates local buses.
Local Businesses
Concord's economy includes healthcare, government, retail, and services. The city supports a range of small businesses, including restaurants, retail shops, and professional services, and the downtown area has seen new investment in recent years.
No businesses are listed in Concord yet. Add your business to be the first.
Nearby Attractions
- Todos Santos Plaza
- Concord Pavilion
- Lime Ridge Open Space
- Mount Diablo State Park (nearby)
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Largest city in Contra Costa County with diverse amenities
- BART connection with several stations
- More moderate housing prices than other Bay Area cities
- Access to Mount Diablo and regional parks
Considerations
- Traffic on Highway 4 and I-680 during peak hours
- Public school performance varies
- Farther from San Francisco than other East Bay cities
- Some areas need continued investment
Concord FAQs
Is Concord part of the Bay Area?
Yes. Concord is in Contra Costa County and is part of the Bay Area, located in the central part of the county.
Does Concord have BART?
Yes. BART has several stations in Concord, connecting the city to San Francisco, Oakland, and other parts of the Bay Area.
What is Todos Santos Plaza?
Todos Santos Plaza is the historic center of downtown Concord, with a park, farmers market, shops, and restaurants.