East Bay, San Francisco County
Piedmont, San Francisco
An affluent city surrounded by Oakland with excellent schools
Piedmont is a small, affluent incorporated city in Alameda County, completely surrounded by the city of Oakland. Known for its excellent schools, its tree-lined streets, and its grand residential homes, Piedmont is one of the most exclusive communities in the Bay Area. The city is almost entirely residential, with a small commercial area and a strong community character.
History & Local Character
Piedmont was incorporated as a city in 1907. The city was developed as an exclusive residential community, with large lots and grand homes. The city has maintained its exclusive, residential character throughout its history, with strict zoning and a strong community identity. Piedmont is known for its excellent schools and its quiet, residential atmosphere.
Neighborhoods & Communities
Piedmont's neighborhoods are exclusively residential, with large single-family homes on tree-lined streets. The city has a small commercial area along Highland Avenue, with a few shops and services. The city's compact size means most areas are within walking distance of the community center and parks.
Housing & Real Estate
Piedmont's housing market is one of the most expensive in the Bay Area, with large single-family homes on tree-lined lots. Prices are driven by the city's schools, exclusivity, and location. The market is competitive, and inventory is very limited.
Restaurants & Shopping
Piedmont has very limited dining options within the city, as it is almost exclusively residential. Residents typically dine in neighboring Oakland, Berkeley, or other nearby communities. The city has a few cafes and small restaurants in its commercial area.
Schools & Education
Piedmont Unified School District is consistently ranked as one of the best school districts in California. The quality of the schools is a major draw for families and contributes to the city's property values.
Parks & Recreation
Piedmont maintains several parks, including Piedmont Park, the city's main park, and the Piedmont Community Pool. The city is near the East Bay Regional Park District trails and Lake Merritt for additional outdoor recreation.
Transportation & Accessibility
Piedmont is located within Oakland and is served by AC Transit buses. The city does not have BART, but the Rockridge and MacArthur BART stations are nearby. The city is along I-580, making it convenient to San Francisco and the rest of the East Bay.
Local Businesses
Piedmont is almost exclusively residential, with very limited commercial activity. The city supports a small number of businesses in its commercial area. Residents rely on neighboring Oakland and Berkeley for shopping, dining, and services.
No businesses are listed in Piedmont yet. Add your business to be the first.
Nearby Attractions
- Piedmont Park
- Piedmont Community Pool
- Lake Merritt (nearby)
- Oakland's Rockridge district (nearby)
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- One of the best school districts in California
- Quiet, exclusive residential character
- Beautiful, tree-lined streets and grand homes
- Central East Bay location within Oakland
Considerations
- Among the most expensive housing markets in the Bay Area
- Very limited commercial and dining options
- Very limited housing inventory
- Exclusive and reserved character
Piedmont FAQs
Is Piedmont part of Oakland?
No. Piedmont is an independent, incorporated city in Alameda County, completely surrounded by the city of Oakland.
Are Piedmont schools good?
Yes. Piedmont Unified School District is consistently ranked as one of the best school districts in California.
Are there businesses in Piedmont?
Piedmont has a small commercial area with a few shops and services, but is almost entirely residential. Residents rely on neighboring Oakland for most commercial needs.