Piedmont, a 2-mile-square city within the borders of Oakland, was incorporated in 1907 and was known then as “The City of Millionaires” because there were more millionaires per square mile residing there than in any other US city. Today, their large, estate-like homes are still standing in the heart of Piedmont, reminding residents of its glitzy past. Homes in Piedmont range from those estate-like homes in central Piedmont with expansive grounds to more modest homes on the edges of town. Well manicured landscapes prevail and the city’s stringent permitting guidelines ensure all of the homes maintain their original flavor.
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The schools here are outstanding and one of the main reasons people move here from all over the Bay Area. US News and World Report recently ranked Piedmont High School in the top 100 best in the country. The elementary schools are also considered some of the best in the East Bay. Located in the center of town, Havens Elementary was recently rebuilt from the ground up, offering top-of-the-line resources and facilities, including a well-equipped library and playground. This would never have happened without the involvement of parents and the community, which is a hallmark of Piedmont residents.
The commercial area of town is small featuring several banks and one gas station. The recent addition of Mulberry’s Market, a specialty food store with ready-made meals, caters to gourmet taste buds and is the frequent morning coffee stop for parents and after-school hot spot for kids. Piedmont’s proximity to Oakland’s many big-city amenities ensures Piedmonters will not miss out on the latest restaurants or first-run movies.
The sense of community is strong, as witnessed by the large turn-out for the annual Fourth of July parade that happens each year down Highland Avenue. The Piedmont Community Center offers a central gathering place for residents. Available for rental, it is the frequent setting for community events and parties. The beautiful grounds provide a wonderful place to hang out and play, and the wooded trail connecting the Center to the high school is the best place to let Fido off the leash for a good romp.
A casual carpool zone on Oakland Avenue, along with proximity to BART and AC transit buses, offer workers convenient commute options.
Pride in community involvement, village living and top-rated schools are just a few of the reasons people love to live in Piedmont.
