East Bay: Towns and Housing of LaMorinda and Beyond
Brentwood
Located in rural eastern Contra Costa County, Brentwood was once a sleepy farming community that has recently awoken to a great deal of new development. Brand new subdivisions offer single family homes in a variety of styles and prices. Its close proximity to the Delta makes Brentwood a desirable location for those who enjoy boating, waterskiing, and fishing.
Clayton
Originally founded at the base of Mount Diablo as a distribution center for the region's coal mining industry, Clayton is located in a country setting, with large undeveloped areas that contribute to the town's rural atmosphere. Newer subdivisions are located among old walnut groves.
Concord
Concord is a leading commercial center. Planned professional and residential developments have provided residents of this city with new business opportunities as well as retail and recreational facilities. Concord is also home to several public and private theaters, including the Sleep Train Pavilion. Concord homes are mostly well-defined subdivisions offering a variety of styles and prices.
Lafayette
Set in the hills and somewhat rural in feel, Lafayette offers easy access to the rest of the Bay Area. There is no industry in Lafayette, but a full range of retail shops are available. Homes are generally large, single-family residences with either private or public pools and tennis courts nearby. The Lafayette Reservoir offers hiking, boating, fishing and picnicking.
Moraga
Moraga, an upscale, small community with rolling hills, tree-lined streets and a country feeling, is nestled behind the Berkeley-Oakland hills. Newer developments are few and far between. Scenic trails winding throughout Moraga offer a plethora of opportunities to hikers, cyclists and equestrians alike. The Commons, a 20-acre neighborhood park, is located in the town center. On the edge of town is a redwood grove, a remnant of the giants that used to grow there.
Orinda
Just over the hills from UC-Berkeley, Orinda is the closest community in Contra Costa county to San Francisco. One of the Bay Area's most prestigious communities, Orinda has spread out on both sides of Highway 24. Its homes are mostly custom and upscale, but not ostentatious. Orinda has a great deal of open space and is near Tilden Park. John F. Kennedy University is also located here.
Walnut Creek
Walnut Creek has developed into the hub of Contra Costa County. It has experienced tremendous growth and an influx of commercial and financial businesses. Walnut Creek has also earned a reputation as a posh shopping district with its mall and charming village-like atmosphere. A wide variety of leisure activities and a strong arts program add to Walnut Creek's overall appeal. Surrounding the downtown district are many residential neighborhoods, offering new and older style ranch homes.