Inland 31 miles from San Francisco is the suburb of Danville. Its 42,000 residents enjoy low unemployment, nice weather and low crime. These factors make Danville a great place to live and work.
Homeowners aren’t immune to high housing prices so common in The Bay Area. The median home price in Danville is a little over $1 million. In fact, a quick scan of active listings shows that there are a precious few homes that are under the six-figure mark.
It is one of the wealthiest cities in California and among the top most expensive ZIP codes in the nation.
Danville’s population began to increase at a rapid clip, beginning in 1960, when the U.S. Census Bureau counted about 3,580 residents. The pace has slowed since the turn of the 21st century.
The town motto, “Small town atmosphere, outstanding quality of life,” speaks to the community feel that it hopes to bring to life within its boundaries.
Located on 18 square miles in the San Ramon Valley in Contra Costa County, it offers convenient access to San Francisco via Interstate-680, yet has views of Mt. Diablo to the east. The coldest winter temperatures are in the 50s, and it rarely gets warmer than 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the summers.
Living in Danville
The town has a vigorous recreation, arts and community services department that seeks out citizen input into the amenities offered to the public. The Danville Library offers a variety of programming for all ages.
The Iron Horse Regional Trail, a former railroad bed that has since been converted to a bike and hike trail, runs through and beyond the city to the north and south. A farmers market is held on Saturdays, next to the San Ramon Valley Museum.
Danville is also home to the Village Theatre and Art Gallery, hosting children’s theatre, Broadway shows and art discussions.
And, another perk for the well-heeled: electric charging stations for cars were recently installed in the downtown area.
Danville’s highly rated public school system includes two high schools. The Athenian School, a private college preparatory school for grades 6-12, is also in Danville.
Areavibes finds Danville to be “exceptionally livable” – the only poor score being in affordability. That group ranks Danville the second most desirable city in California and 34th in the USA.