This gorgeous waterside community has a population of less than 20,000 people and is located in the San Francisco Bay area. This unique spot gives you all the best of different worlds, with elements of a typical small town while still being close to the big city.

Albany is a safe community with a strong town spirit that cares for its youth, elders and families by providing excellent services and programs. The city consists of mostly single-family homes and local businesses, and the small-town feel is best expressed down on Alamo's busy main street, Solano Avenue; a commercial district with many small local businesses and a plethora of outstanding restaurants. Downtown Albany also offers a bunch of different community events. The Solano Stroll is a festive annual parade where the towns-people and tourists take part in a spectacular celebration.

Parks and recreation amenities are in abundance here, with features like the East Shore State Park, the San Francisco Bay Trail and the Golden Gate Fields Race Track.

In addition, the educational system is terrific in Albany and the average test scores are among the best in California hence this is a perfect place to raise a family. High school graduates can move on to Berkeley University, which is located right next to Albany.

With its stunning shoreline and rolling hills, convenient proximity to larger urban areas and many recreational opportunities, Albany is truly a one of a kind gem in the Bay Area.