Welcome to San Jose
A bustling tech hub in Silicon Valley.
If you are looking for the perfect city in California, San Jose is a wonderful candidate in the tech cradle of Silicon Valley. It is the proud home of the Tech Museum of Innovation, the Children's Discovery Museum, and the source of many tech industry jobs in the region. There are also many nearby nature trails and a beautiful historic district alongside trendy, upscale shopping spots and a delightful selection of local restaurants.
In the southwest quadrant of the city, you will find a beautiful residential neighborhood, a quiet and elegant place to live with fantastic restaurants and many parks to enjoy. Willow Glen's welcomingly walkable shopping district is known for its indie clothing boutiques, specialty food shops, and bookstores. The neighborhood borders glittering downtown San Jose and is the source of many art, wine, and music festivals.
What to Love
- Downtown Willow Glen
- Glamorous shopping at Santana Row
- Discover the Winchester Mystery House
- The beauty of St Joseph's Basilica
- Plenty of architectural styles and character
History & Heritage
San Jose, California, proudly holds the distinction of being the first civilian settlement in California and the state's first capital. Originally founded in 1777 as El Pueblo de San José de Guadalupe, it served as a Spanish farming community. Its location in the fertile Santa Clara Valley made it ideal for agriculture, contributing to its early economic prosperity. Following Mexican independence, the city became part of Alta California, and after the U.S. annexation, it was designated as the first capital of the newly admitted state of California in 1850.
Much of San Jose’s historical identity is shaped by its early land grants and estates, including the sprawling Peralta Adobe, which remains the city's oldest address and a key architectural landmark. Visionary urban planners like William Campbell helped shape early city infrastructure, while figures such as Sarah Winchester left a legacy in the form of the Winchester Mystery House, an architectural marvel and enduring symbol of local folklore.
San Jose's growth accelerated with the arrival of the railroad in the 1860s, and by the 20th century, it transitioned from an agricultural town into a thriving suburban and industrial center. The development of Silicon Valley in the latter half of the 20th century transformed San Jose into a global hub of innovation, attracting technology pioneers like Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore, co-founders of Intel.
Local Culture
San Jose’s culture is a vibrant blend of tech-forward energy, multicultural influences, and deep-rooted creativity. As the heart of Silicon Valley, the city embraces innovation, but beyond the glassy tech campuses, you'll find a thriving arts and community scene grounded in authenticity and diversity.
Local creatives thrive in the SoFA (South of First Area) District, where contemporary galleries, murals, and performing arts venues set the tone. Institutions like MACLA (Movimiento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana) spotlight Latinx artists, while San Jose Museum of Art curates modern and contemporary works that reflect the city’s layered identity.
Annual events like SubZERO Festival, a celebration of DIY culture and low-tech creativity, and San Jose Jazz Summer Fest, which attracts artists from around the globe, highlight the city’s commitment to inclusive cultural expression. You'll also find nonprofits like Works/San José supporting experimental art and emerging talent.
San Jose’s cultural vibrancy is equally shaped by its immigrant communities—from Vietnamese night markets and Mexican heritage parades, to Filipino cultural festivals—making it one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States. This diversity isn’t just seen, it’s celebrated daily through cuisine, public art, and community gatherings.
Local Attractions
San Jose offers a dynamic mix of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and family-friendly destinations—making it a city where leisure and exploration intersect year-round.
Start your day at Alum Rock Park, one of California’s oldest municipal parks, nestled in the foothills of the Diablo Range. With its mineral springs, scenic hiking trails, and sweeping canyon views, it’s a favorite for nature lovers. For those seeking a tranquil escape within the city, Municipal Rose Garden offers over 3,500 rose shrubs across five acres—a romantic oasis named “America’s Best Rose Garden.”
San Jose’s landmark attractions also include the eccentric and iconic Winchester Mystery House, a sprawling Victorian mansion with architectural oddities and a rich folklore. Meanwhile, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, with its world-renowned collection of Egyptian artifacts, brings global history to Silicon Valley’s doorstep.
Families will find endless fun at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, combining amusement rides with wildlife encounters, while sports enthusiasts can enjoy a round at Cinnabar Hills Golf Club or The Ranch Golf Club, known for their stunning views and challenging fairways.
Though San Jose isn’t directly on the coastline, a short drive to nearby beaches like Half Moon Bay or Santa Cruz Beach means sun and surf are never out of reach. Combine this with the city’s wealth of local parks—such as Guadalupe River Park and Lake Cunningham Regional Park—and San Jose proves it’s a lifestyle destination as much as it is a tech capital.
Dining & Entertainment
For a refined culinary experience, ADEGA, the only Michelin-starred Portuguese restaurant in the U.S., delivers world-class cuisine in a romantic, modern setting. Nearby, Le Papillon stands as a pillar of San Jose fine dining with its French-influenced tasting menus and impeccable service. The Table, located in Willow Glen, offers a trendy yet cozy spot featuring seasonal Californian cuisine and craft cocktails—a favorite among locals.
In Japantown, one of the last remaining historic Japantowns in the U.S., foodies flock to Minato and Kazoo for authentic sushi and ramen, while Back A Yard Caribbean Grill infuses island flavor into the city’s diverse dining landscape. And for an elevated rooftop experience, Elyse in downtown San Jose blends French-Vietnamese fusion with skyline views and moody ambiance.
When it comes to entertainment, the SAP Center—affectionately dubbed the “Shark Tank”—hosts San Jose Sharks NHL games, major concerts, and touring events. For more intimate performances, the California Theatre and Hammer Theatre Center bring a mix of opera, indie films, and local productions to the stage.
Don’t miss a night at Santana Row, a European-style luxury shopping and lifestyle district featuring outdoor lounges, wine bars, and high-end eateries like LB Steak and Left Bank Brasserie. Whether you’re in the mood for an art house film, craft beer, or live jazz, San Jose’s diverse offerings deliver both sophistication and soul.
Parks & Recreation
San Jose is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an impressive range of parks, hiking trails, and recreational spaces that support an active and nature-forward lifestyle. Whether you're into hiking, biking, horseback riding, or simply soaking up the sun, there's something for every pace.
Almaden Quicksilver County Park is a local gem with over 37 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails set against rolling hills and historic mining ruins. Its panoramic vistas and wildflower blooms are a favorite among weekend adventurers. For a more shaded forest escape, Santa Teresa County Park offers equestrian-friendly trails and picnic areas with views of Silicon Valley below.
Los Gatos Creek Trail, which stretches through San Jose and into neighboring communities, is popular for both casual joggers and serious cyclists. Meanwhile, Coyote Creek Trail provides a more serene experience, winding through wetlands and nature preserves perfect for birdwatching.
Lake-based activities abound at Lake Cunningham Regional Park, home to San Jose’s largest skate park and paddleboarding on the lake, while Emma Prusch Farm Park offers a rustic farm experience with orchards, gardens, and a community space ideal for families.
While San Jose isn’t on the ocean, beach recreation is just under an hour away. Residents often escape to Santa Cruz, Capitola, or Half Moon Bay for surfing, sunbathing, and seaside dining, making coastal access a routine part of the San Jose lifestyle.
Schools & Education
San Jose stands out as an educationally driven city, offering families access to a wide variety of high-performing public schools, nationally ranked private institutions, and renowned universities.
The city is served by multiple award-winning school districts, including San José Unified School District, Evergreen School District, and Cupertino Union School District, which is consistently recognized for academic excellence and STEM-focused programs. Schools like Leland High School, Pioneer High School, and Evergreen Valley High School often top local rankings for college readiness and AP performance.
For those seeking private education, Bellarmine College Preparatory, an all-boys Jesuit high school founded in 1851, is known for academic rigor and leadership development. Presentation High School, a top all-girls Catholic school, and Archbishop Mitty High School also offer strong college prep and extracurricular programs.
On the younger end, institutions like Harker School and Stratford School provide exceptional K–12 education and are regularly ranked among California’s best private schools.
Higher education is also within reach, with San Jose State University anchoring downtown as a respected public research institution. The presence of Stanford University and Santa Clara University just a short drive away reinforces the city’s reputation for intellectual growth and innovation.
For families prioritizing education, San Jose delivers access to quality schooling at every level—making it a top choice for long-term residence and academic opportunity.
Commute & Accessibility
San Jose is uniquely positioned to offer both urban convenience and regional connectivity, making it an ideal home base for professionals, families, and frequent travelers.
The city is well-integrated into the Bay Area’s freeway system, with key arteries like Interstate 280, Highway 101, Interstate 680, and Highway 87 providing fast access to neighboring cities including Palo Alto, Santa Clara, Mountain View, and San Francisco. Commute times vary, but many residents working in nearby tech hubs like Cupertino or Sunnyvale enjoy drive times of just 20–30 minutes during off-peak hours.
For public transportation, VTA (Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority) operates an extensive network of light rail and bus lines that link key residential and commercial zones, including downtown San Jose, the Diridon Station corridor, and the North First tech corridor. Caltrain at Diridon Station offers direct service to San Francisco, with a future BART extension underway that will further streamline travel across the Bay.
Air travel is hassle-free thanks to San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC), located just minutes from downtown. With nonstop flights to major domestic and international destinations, SJC is a preferred airport for tech executives and global travelers alike. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Oakland International Airport (OAK) are also within reach, offering additional travel options for international and long-haul flights.
Whether you commute daily or travel occasionally, San Jose’s infrastructure ensures you're never far from where you need to be.
Real Estate in San Jose
San Jose’s real estate market is as diverse as its neighborhoods—offering everything from modern condos in downtown high-rises to sprawling single-family estates in the foothills. As the largest city in Silicon Valley, demand remains strong, driven by tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and families seeking long-term stability.
Home prices here reflect both location and lifestyle. In Willow Glen, buyers find tree-lined streets and charming historic homes, perfect for those drawn to neighborhood character and community charm. Silver Creek Valley and Almaden Valley cater to luxury buyers with expansive estates, private golf communities, and panoramic views. Meanwhile, Downtown San Jose offers a walkable urban lifestyle with lofts, new developments, and access to nightlife and public transit.
Tech-centric areas like North San Jose and Berryessa are attracting new developments, offering sleek townhomes and single-family options with proximity to major employers like Google, Apple, and Adobe. These areas are especially appealing to young professionals and investors anticipating long-term growth.
Whether you're looking for a starter home, a multi-generational property, or a luxury retreat, San Jose offers a range of real estate opportunities to fit your goals.
Architectural Styles
San Jose’s architectural landscape is a diverse showcase of California’s evolving design history—where charming heritage homes meet bold contemporary builds. Whether you're a lover of old-world elegance or sleek minimalism, San Jose offers something to suit every aesthetic.
Spanish Revival and Mediterranean-style homes are prevalent in neighborhoods like Willow Glen and Naglee Park, with their signature stucco walls, red tile roofs, and arched doorways evoking timeless West Coast charm. Many were influenced by early 20th-century architects such as William Weeks, whose work shaped much of San Jose’s civic and residential identity.
Craftsman bungalows, with their exposed beams, deep porches, and handcrafted woodwork, remain beloved in historic districts like Rose Garden and Japantown. These homes offer warmth, detail, and an appreciation for artistry that appeals to vintage home buyers and restoration enthusiasts alike.
Mid-century modern homes—marked by clean lines, open floor plans, and indoor-outdoor living—can be found in pockets of Almaden Valley and near the Rose Garden, often attributed to post-war developers inspired by architects like Joseph Eichler, whose influence extended into parts of San Jose’s suburban sprawl.
In more recent developments like North San Jose and Silver Creek, you’ll find Contemporary and Minimalist architecture, with glass-heavy façades, smart home integrations, and eco-conscious materials that speak to modern Silicon Valley lifestyles.
From Tudor revivals to California ranches, San Jose’s architecture isn’t just varied—it’s a tangible narrative of its growth and evolving values.
Most Coveted Streets & Estates
San Jose is home to micro-neighborhoods and signature streets that command prestige, privacy, and architectural beauty. These enclaves often blend exclusivity with accessibility—making them magnets for high-net-worth buyers and long-term residents.
University Avenue in Willow Glen is often called the "crown jewel" of the neighborhood, with its wide tree-lined streets, storybook homes, and close proximity to downtown’s boutiques and cafés. This area boasts some of the most sought-after single-family homes in the city.
In the Rose Garden District, Hester Avenue and Park Avenue are known for their proximity to the historic Municipal Rose Garden and beautifully maintained early 20th-century homes. These streets appeal to those who value architecture, tranquility, and central access.
For luxury estates, look to Silver Creek Valley Road, where gated communities like Silver Creek Valley Country Club offer expansive homes, private golf access, and scenic views of rolling foothills. Another hidden gem is Via Campagna, a quiet cul-de-sac within this enclave known for its Mediterranean-style estates and manicured grounds.
In Almaden Valley, Graystone Lane and Country Club Parkway are home to elegant estates with generous lot sizes, popular among executives seeking privacy without compromising on amenities.
These streets aren’t just addresses—they’re destinations, often passed down through generations or snapped up the moment a listing appears.
Innovative Housing and Urban Development Projects
San Jose stands at the forefront of urban innovation, blending housing development with sustainability, smart technology, and community-focused design. As the largest city in Silicon Valley, it’s not just a hub for technological advancement—but also a living laboratory for rethinking what modern urban living can be.
One of the city’s flagship projects is Urban Village Planning, a progressive initiative that reimagines land use by clustering housing, retail, and transit into walkable, mixed-use districts. Neighborhoods like Berryessa BART Urban Village and Downtown West, the latter driven by Google’s transformative vision, are set to bring thousands of housing units alongside office space, parks, bike paths, and cultural venues—designed with green infrastructure and equity in mind.
San Jose is also prioritizing affordable housing without compromising innovation. Projects like Second Street Studios, one of the first 100% permanent supportive housing communities in the region, offer high-density living with integrated services for formerly unhoused individuals, demonstrating a model for humane and scalable urban housing.
Sustainability is deeply embedded in the city’s development ethos. North San José Development Policy supports high-density, transit-accessible housing near employment hubs to reduce carbon emissions and promote alternative transportation. New builds frequently meet or exceed LEED certification, incorporate solar panels, graywater systems, and smart home technology—turning residential spaces into climate-conscious homes of the future.
Additionally, the Diridon Station Area Plan is transforming one of the West Coast’s busiest transit hubs into a vibrant, eco-urban district—with a focus on public space, low-carbon mobility, and long-term livability. This development exemplifies San Jose’s commitment to designing for the next generation while preserving cultural and economic accessibility.
As the housing landscape evolves, San Jose is proving that growth doesn’t have to come at the cost of character or conscience. These projects reflect a bold commitment to urban design that’s equitable, intelligent, and undeniably forward-thinking.
Who is San Jose For?
San Jose attracts a uniquely diverse cross-section of residents, making it one of the most inclusive and opportunity-rich cities in California.
Tech Professionals & Entrepreneurs: As the capital of Silicon Valley, San Jose is ideal for those working in tech. Proximity to Apple, Google, and Adobe—plus a strong startup ecosystem—makes it a magnet for ambitious professionals who value access, innovation, and upward mobility.
Young Families: With its top-rated schools, family-friendly parks, and safe suburban enclaves like Almaden Valley and Evergreen, San Jose offers a nurturing environment for growing households. Local schools emphasize STEM education, while weekend access to nature and museums makes raising kids here both enriching and exciting.
Empty Nesters & Retirees: San Jose’s mild climate, low crime rate, and access to healthcare make it an attractive option for retirees. Many settle in peaceful areas like Berryessa or Rose Garden, where they enjoy walkability and a tight-knit community feel.
Investors & Upscale Buyers: The city’s long-term real estate appreciation and global workforce create strong market stability. Luxury estates in Silver Creek or custom builds in Willow Glen appeal to discerning buyers looking for legacy homes or high-value portfolios.
Whether you’re launching a career, raising a family, or seeking a lifestyle upgrade, San Jose offers the infrastructure, diversity, and culture to support your next chapter.
