The short answer:
Oakley is one of the more affordable cities in East Contra Costa County, but costs have been rising as more buyers move inland.

Housing Costs in Oakley

Housing is the biggest factor.

• Most homes: $600K–$900K
• New construction: often on the higher end
• Rent: typically $2,500–$3,500+

Compared to much of the Bay Area, you get more space for your money.

Everyday Expenses

Here’s what to expect:

• Groceries: Slightly above national average
• Gas: Higher (California pricing)
• Utilities: Moderate
• Property taxes: ~1.1%–1.25%

Transportation Costs

This is where many people underestimate:

• Longer commutes = higher gas + time cost
• Limited public transit compared to the Bay Area

Real Client Scenario

We worked with a couple relocating from San Jose.

They:

• Sold a townhouse
• Bought a 4-bedroom home in Oakley
• Reduced monthly stress despite similar payment

Their biggest win? More space + better lifestyle

Is Oakley Expensive?

Compared to:

• San Francisco → MUCH cheaper
• Walnut Creek → more affordable
• Brentwood → similar, sometimes slightly lower

Final Answer

Oakley is not “cheap,” but it is:
One of the best value markets in the East Bay right now.

• Mid-range: $650K–$800K
• Larger/new homes: $800K–$950K+

What You Get for Your Money

Compared to other Bay Area cities:

• More square footage
• Newer builds
• Larger lots

What Impacts Price

• Location within Oakley
• New vs older homes
• Upgrades and condition
• Lot size

Market Conditions

• Buyers have more leverage than peak years
• Homes still move if priced correctly
• Overpriced homes sit longer

Common Buyer Mistake

Thinking:

“Everything is cheap here”

Reality:
The best homes still get competitive.

Final Answer

Oakley offers:
Strong value compared to the rest of the Bay Area — but it’s still a competitive market.

The Mashore Group
Krista Mashore & Jaynlin Slone
44 Sycamore Ave, Brentwood, CA 94513
925-325-4663
https://www.TheMashoreGroup.com

<p>The post What Is the Cost of Living in Oakley, CA in 2026? first appeared on The Mashore Group.</p>

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The short answer:
Yes—Oakley can be a great move in 2026, especially if you’re looking for affordability, newer homes, and a more suburban feel. But it depends on your lifestyle, commute, and long-term goals.

Let’s break it down so you can decide if it’s right for you.

What It’s Like Living in Oakley, CA

Oakley is often described as one of the more affordable and growing cities in East Contra Costa County.

Here’s what stands out:

• More new construction homes compared to nearby cities
• Family-friendly neighborhoods and parks
• Slower pace than places like Walnut Creek or Oakland
• Close access to the Delta (great for boating and outdoor activities)

If you’re coming from a more crowded or expensive area, Oakley can feel like a big lifestyle upgrade.

Home Prices in Oakley (2026 Outlook)

Oakley is still considered one of the more accessible housing markets in the East Bay.

What we’re seeing:

• Many homes fall in the $600K–$900K range
• Newer homes and larger properties are common
• Buyers are getting more square footage for the price

Compared to cities like Brentwood or Concord, your dollar often goes further here.

Who Oakley Is a Great Fit For

Oakley tends to work really well for:

1. First-Time Buyers

If you’ve been priced out of other Bay Area markets, Oakley gives you a real shot at ownership.

2. Families Needing Space

Bigger homes, newer developments, and quieter streets make it ideal for growing families.

3. Remote or Hybrid Workers

If you’re not commuting every day, Oakley becomes much more attractive.

Who Might Struggle With Oakley

Oakley isn’t perfect for everyone.

Here are a few things to consider:

1. Commuters to Central Bay Area

If you’re commuting daily to San Francisco or Oakland, it can be a long drive or BART commute.

2. Those Wanting Walkability

Oakley is suburban. You’ll likely need a car for most things.

3. People Wanting Nightlife or Urban Energy

This is not a city with a big downtown scene or nightlife.

Pros and Cons of Moving to Oakley, CA

Pros:

• More affordable than much of the Bay Area
• Newer homes and planned communities
• Family-friendly environment
• Less crowded, quieter lifestyle

Cons:

• Longer commute times
• Limited dining/entertainment options
• Still growing (some areas feel less developed)

Real Client Story

We recently helped a family relocate from San Leandro to Oakley.

They were:

• Renting a smaller home
• Frustrated with rising costs
• Wanting more space for their kids

We found them a newer 4-bedroom home in Oakley with a backyard—something that would’ve been out of reach in their previous area.

Their biggest concern? The commute.

So we helped them:

• Map out realistic commute options
• Adjust their work schedules
• Choose a neighborhood with easier highway access

Now, they’ve told us the trade-off was worth it for the space and lifestyle.

Is 2026 a Good Time to Move to Oakley?

Here’s the reality:

• Inventory is fluctuating, but opportunities are still there
• Buyers have more negotiating power than in peak frenzy years
• Interest rates are still a factor—but so is long-term appreciation

If Oakley fits your lifestyle, waiting for the “perfect market” usually doesn’t help.

The better question is:

Does moving now improve your life situation?

Common Mistakes Buyers Make

1. Focusing only on price, not lifestyle
2. Underestimating commute impact
3. Waiting too long and getting priced out again
4. Not exploring different neighborhoods within Oakley

So… Should You Move to Oakley, CA?

If you want:

• More home for your money
• A quieter, family-oriented environment
• A growing area with long-term potential

Then yes—Oakley is absolutely worth considering in 2026.

But if commute, walkability, or nightlife are top priorities, you may want to explore other nearby cities.

Next Steps

If you’re seriously considering a move, the best next step is to look at your situation specifically:

• Your budget
• Your commute
• Your timeline
• What kind of home you actually want

The Mashore Group
Krista Mashore & Jaynlin Slone
44 Sycamore Ave, Brentwood, CA 94513
925-325-4663
https://www.TheMashoreGroup.com

FAQ

Is Oakley, CA safe?

Oakley is generally considered a safe, family-friendly community, though like any city, it varies by neighborhood.

How far is Oakley from San Francisco?

About 50–60 miles, depending on route. Commute times can range from 1–2+ hours.

Are there good schools in Oakley?

There are several solid schools, and many families choose Oakley specifically for this reason.

Is Oakley still growing?

Yes—new construction and development continue to expand the area.

The Mashore Group
Krista Mashore & Jaynlin Slone

44 Sycamore Ave

Brentwood, CA 94513

925-325-4663

https://www.TheMashoreGroup.com

<p>The post Should I Move to Oakley, CA in 2026? first appeared on The Mashore Group.</p>

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But while Brentwood looks like a clear upgrade on paper, the reality is a bit more nuanced. Let’s walk through what actually changes when you make the move.

Why South Bay Buyers Are Moving to Brentwood

The biggest driver is simple: value for your money.

In San Jose, your budget might get you:

• A smaller home
• Limited outdoor space
• Older construction

In Brentwood, that same budget often gets you:

• A larger home
• A backyard
• Newer construction
• A quieter neighborhood

For many families, that difference alone makes the move feel like a major lifestyle upgrade.

The Biggest Tradeoff: Commute vs. Space

Here’s the part you need to think through carefully.

When you move to Brentwood, you’re gaining space—but you’re often giving up proximity.

• Commuting back toward San Jose or Silicon Valley can be time-consuming
• Highway 4 traffic, especially westbound, can be heavy during peak hours
• Most residents rely on driving for daily life

 If you work remotely or have a flexible schedule, Brentwood can feel like the perfect fit.
If you commute daily, this is the biggest factor to evaluate.

Cost of Living: It’s Not Just About the Home Price

While Brentwood homes are typically more affordable than San Jose, your total cost of living includes more than your mortgage.

You’ll want to consider:

• Property taxes (and possible Mello-Roos in newer communities)
• Summer utility costs (air conditioning is essential)
• Gas and commuting expenses
• HOA fees in certain neighborhoods

 The key is to compare your monthly lifestyle cost, not just purchase price.

Lifestyle Shift: Suburban vs. Silicon Valley

This is where the move becomes personal.

In San Jose:

• You’re closer to tech hubs
• There’s more density and convenience
• Dining, shopping, and entertainment are nearby

In Brentwood:

• Life is quieter and more spread out
• Community and family activities take center stage
• Outdoor space and home life become a bigger focus

Many families find they spend more time at home—hosting, relaxing, and enjoying their space.

Schools and Community

Brentwood is known for:

• Strong school districts
• Family-oriented neighborhoods
• Active youth sports and community events

For buyers prioritizing family life, this is often a major advantage over more urban areas.

Is Moving to Brentwood from the South Bay Worth It?

It depends on your priorities.  Brentwood may be a great fit if you want:

• More space
• A quieter lifestyle
• Better value for your money

 It may not be ideal if you need:

• A short commute to Silicon Valley
• Walkability and city energy
• Cooler coastal weather

The Bottom Line

Moving from San Jose to Brentwood isn’t just a location change—it’s a lifestyle decision.

You’re trading proximity for space, convenience for comfort, and density for breathing room.

For many buyers, that trade is absolutely worth it. But the key is understanding the full picture before you make the move.

Thinking About Relocating?

If you’re considering a move from San Jose to Brentwood and want to see how it works financially for your situation, the best next step is to look at the numbers—and the lifestyle—side by side.

Because the right move isn’t just about where you’re going.
It’s about how you want to live.

The Mashore Group

Krista Mashore & Jaynlin Slone

44 Sycamore Ave

Brentwood, CA 94513

925-325-4663

<p>The post Moving from South Bay to Brentwood, CA: What You Need to Know Before You Relocate first appeared on The Mashore Group.</p>

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And I know that sounds vague, so let me explain what I mean by that.

When families move to Brentwood from somewhere like Oakland, San Jose, or even parts of Walnut Creek, they’re often chasing a bigger house. That’s what they say at first. “We want more square footage.” “We want a yard.” “We want more for our money.”

But what ends up surprising them isn’t just the size of the home. It’s how the extra space changes their daily rhythm. All of a sudden, the house doesn’t feel tight. The kitchen isn’t cramped when everyone’s home at the same time. The kids aren’t stacked on top of each other. You can actually host people without rearranging furniture for two hours beforehand. There’s room for a dog. There’s room for a garden. There’s room for a pool if you want one.

And what happens slowly, over a few months, is that life starts to feel less compressed.

You’re not fighting for parking when you get home. You’re not hearing traffic constantly outside your window. You’re not surrounded by concrete in every direction. There’s more sky. There are more open streets. There’s a little more quiet at night. That breathing room does something to people.

We’ve had clients tell us that after moving here, they didn’t realize how tense they had been living closer to the core of the Bay Area until they left it. Not because those areas are bad — they’re vibrant and exciting — but because density creates energy. And energy isn’t always restful.

Brentwood has a different kind of energy. It’s slower. It’s more suburban. Weekends look different here. Instead of navigating crowded downtown areas, people are hosting barbecues, heading to youth sports games, or taking their kids to one of the farms. Instead of squeezing into a tiny patio restaurant, they’re spreading out in their backyard with friends.

That change in pace is the real reason many people choose to stay long-term.

Now, of course, that space comes with tradeoffs. You’re not twenty minutes from everything. If you want a big concert in San Francisco or a last-minute dinner in Oakland, you plan for it. Brentwood is intentionally removed from the center of the action.

But that distance is part of what creates the lifestyle here. You’re choosing a little separation from the chaos. You’re choosing to come home to something calmer. And when you live here for a while, you start to realize that what you gained wasn’t just a bigger house — it was margin. Margin in your driveway. Margin in your backyard. Margin in your weekends.

Another thing people don’t always expect is how community forms in a place like this. Because the neighborhoods are structured and family-oriented, you tend to see the same faces over and over again. Kids grow up together. Parents recognize each other at the grocery store and school events. That familiarity builds naturally because people aren’t constantly moving in and out at the same pace you see in denser cities. For families, especially, that stability matters.

And even for retirees, that space and rhythm shift becomes incredibly valuable. Being able to take a morning walk without heavy traffic, sit outside in the evening when the Delta breeze rolls in, or host grandkids without feeling cramped — those things start to outweigh the appeal of being close to nightlife or urban activity.

Of course, Brentwood isn’t for everyone. If what energizes you is walkability, constant cultural events, and being in the middle of everything, you might feel too removed here. But if what you’re craving is more room to breathe, more room to grow, and more room to live without feeling compressed, that’s where Brentwood shines.

And that’s why when someone asks us what the best reason to live here is, we don’t immediately start listing features. We talk about how it changes your day-to-day experience. Because at the end of the day, where you live shapes how you feel when you wake up and how you feel when you come home.

For a lot of people, Brentwood feels like exhaling. If you’re considering making that move and you’re wondering whether that slower, more spacious lifestyle is right for you, that’s a deeper conversation than just price per square foot. And that’s exactly the kind of conversation we love having.

So I’m curious — if you picture your ideal daily life five years from now, does it look busy and central? Or does it look a little more open and calm?

Let us know in the comments. And if you want more honest breakdowns about what living in Brentwood is really like, follow along. We share what it actually feels like to live here, not just what shows up in the listings.

The Mashore Group
Krista Mashore & Jaynlin Slone
44 Sycamore Ave
Brentwood, CA 94513
925-325-4663
https://www.TheMashoreGroup.com

<p>The post What is The Best Reason to Live in Brentwood first appeared on The Mashore Group.</p>

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If you’ve looked at Trilogy at The Vineyards, you already know — it’s not just a neighborhood. It’s a lifestyle. You’ve got a resort-style clubhouse, pools, fitness centers, tennis courts, organized events, clubs, wine tastings, and social calendars packed year-round. It feels active. It feels social. And it attracts retirees who don’t want to slow down.

Now, price-wise, Trilogy tends to sit on the higher end of Brentwood’s 55+ options. Homes there are newer. Many have modern layouts. A lot of them have upgraded finishes. Some have golf course views or vineyard proximity. You’re paying for amenities and community infrastructure. Then you’ve got the Summerset communities, Summerset I through IV, which have been around longer. They’re also gated 55+ communities. They also have clubhouses, pools, and activities.

But the price points tend to be a little lower than Trilogy, depending on the model and updates. And here’s where retirees start comparing.  Do I want the newer, resort-style, higher-end feel of Trilogy? Or do I want a more established 55+ community at a slightly more approachable price point? Both offer low-maintenance living. Both offer social connection. Both are specifically designed for active adults. The difference often comes down to budget and the “vibe” you want.

Now let’s talk about something that retirees notice immediately. The weather. Brentwood gets hot in the summer. And when I say hot, I mean triple digits are normal in July and August. If you’re coming from coastal California, like Pacifica, San Francisco, and Half Moon Bay this is going to feel different.  But here’s the flip side. Winters are mild. You don’t deal with snow. You don’t deal with freezing temperatures. You can golf year-round. You can walk year-round. The Delta breeze helps in the evenings during summer. And many retirees actually love having real sunshine instead of fog. It just depends on what you’re used to.

Now let’s talk money because retirement decisions are financial decisions. Compared to many parts of the Bay Area, Brentwood offers lower home prices than places like Walnut Creek, Pleasanton, or the Peninsula. But it’s not cheap, especially in Trilogy. You’re still in California. Property taxes apply. HOA dues apply in 55+ communities. So when we talk to retirees, we don’t just talk about purchase price. We talk about the total monthly lifestyle cost. Mortgage or cash purchase. Property taxes. HOA. Utilities — which can be higher in summer because of AC.

And then we compare that to what they’re selling. For many Bay Area retirees selling a long-held home, Brentwood feels like they can downsize square footage but upgrade lifestyle. They free up equity. They move into a community with a built-in social structure. And they’re often still within driving distance of their kids or grandkids in the greater Bay Area. That proximity is a big deal. Now here’s something else retirees ask about: healthcare. There are urgent care centers and medical offices in Brentwood. But there is no major hospital directly inside city limits. For larger hospitals, you’re typically driving to Antioch, Walnut Creek, or Concord. For some retirees, that’s completely fine. For others with specific medical needs, it becomes a more serious consideration. So it depends on your personal health situation.

Now let’s talk about lifestyle outside the gates. Brentwood is not a fast-paced urban environment. It’s quieter.  It’s suburban.  You have restaurants, grocery stores, retail — and it’s grown significantly over the years — but you’re not walking out into downtown San Francisco energy. For many retirees, that’s the appeal. Quiet mornings. Golf rounds. Wine nights with neighbors—farmer’s markets. You-pick Farms. You are trading central convenience for space and calm.  And for a lot of retirees, that’s exactly what they want after decades of working. 

But here’s where I want to be honest. If you thrive on being 15 minutes from major cultural events, professional sports, or international airports… Brentwood will feel farther out. Concerts take planning. Airport trips take planning. City dinners require intention.

So the question becomes:

Do you want active suburban retirement living with sunshine and space? Or do you want central urban retirement with higher price tags and less square footage?  Brentwood sits firmly in the first category. 

Now, when we see retirees happiest here, they usually fall into one of two groups:    They’re local Bay Area homeowners cashing out equity and staying near family.  Or they’re active adults specifically looking for structured 55+ communities like Trilogy or Summerset.

If you’re looking for a slow, quiet, golf-and-social-club type retirement, Brentwood can be an amazing fit. If you’re looking for arts districts, walkable nightlife, and public transit access nearby it may not be for you. 

But for many retirees, especially those wanting space, community, sunshine, and structured activities, Brentwood checks a lot of boxes. If you’re considering retiring in Brentwood and you want to compare Trilogy versus Summerset based on your exact budget and lifestyle goals, follow us here. We walk retirees through these comparisons all the time, and the right decision usually comes down to a few personal priorities. And I’m curious — are you looking to retire within California, or are you relocating from out of state? Drop it in the comments. We’d love to hear your story.

The Mashore Group
Krista Mashore & Jaynlin Slone
44 Sycamore Ave
Brentwood, CA 94513
925-325-4663
https://www.TheMashoreGroup.com

<p>The post Is Brentwood a Great Place to Retire? first appeared on The Mashore Group.</p>

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1. It’s Big… But It Feels Small

Brentwood has just under 70,000 people. So technically? It’s not a tiny town. But it absolutely feels like one. You will run into people you know. At the grocery store, at dinner, and at your kid’s soccer game. At the Farmer’s Market. That small town familiarity is one of the reasons families love it here. There’s community. There’s a connection.  There’s a slower rhythm.  But if you are coming from a palace where you value anonymity? That is something to think about. You’re not just moving to a city. You’re moving into a community. And people know each other here.

2. The Commute Is Real

If you work in San Francisco…San Jose…Oakland and even Walnut Creek, you already know what I’m about to say. The commute from Brentwood can be rough. Brentwood has been reported as one of the toughest places in the Bay Area for commuters.  Why? Because it’s primarily residential.  There are local jobs, but a lot of higher-paying tech, finance or corporate roles are outside the city.  Which means you need to commute on Highway 4. Which means traffic. Which means early morning and late evenings if you’re not remote. Now, if you work from home? Totally different story. But if you’re commuting five days a week, you need to seriously think about lifestyle balance. More space at home, More time in the car. That’s the tradeoff.

3. If You Want Nightlife… This Isn’t It

Let me be honest with you. If you love clubs. Luxury rooftop lounges. High-end shopping districts and fast-paced chaos. Brentwood is not your place. It is a slower pace, and it’s community- centered. It is family-oriented. Yes, we have great local restaurants. Yes, we have community events. But if you’re not getting San Francisco nightlife here. For that vibe, you’re heading to Walnut Creek, Oakland, or SF. And that’s okay. Most families moving here want a quiet lifestyle. But if you are in your twenties and looking for high-energy weekends every night, Brentwood might not be the place for you. That is something to consider.

4. The Summer Heat Is No Joke

Ok, the summer heat in the far East Bay is no joke, and if you’re coming from San Francisco or anywhere near the coast…prepare yourself because Brentwood gets hot, like really hot.  Triple-digit days absolutely do happen. Summers are long, and they are dry.  And it is significantly hotter than most Bay Area cities.  That Delta breeze can help in the evenings to cool you down, but during peak summer, July-August, expect it to be hot.  If you love the coastal fog and cool mornings, you get living closer to the Bay, this might take some adjustment. The Upside: you actually get real summer weather, pool season is legit, and shorts and flip-flops at night are a thing.

5. Power Shutoffs Can Happen

Now, because Brentwood sits in a wildfire region, there are times when PG&E implements Public Safety Power Shutoffs. It does not happen constantly. But it does happen during high-wind fire weather events. And if you’re new to California, that can feel surprising. Most residents are prepared. Backup batteries and even generators. Flashlights ready.  It is manageable, and PGE often gives plenty of notice.  But it is something you should be aware of during the high fire season.

6. You’ll Need a Car

If you rely heavily on public transportation, this is important. Brentwood is car-dependent. There is no Bart Station directly in Brentwood. If you want Bart access, you are going to have to drive to the nearest station, which is in Antioch.  So, walkability for commuting is limited. Train access requires planning, and most families here drive to school and recreation sports. So, if you like urban walkability, this might feel different.

7. The Wind Can Be Wild

And speaking of weather…The wind here can get intense. Especially late summer and fall. That Delta breeze? Sometimes it’s not just a breeze.  I’ve personally seen patio furniture fly across yards. And yes — trampolines flying too. The wind can get strong, but it is also a good thing as it cools things down in the summer.

8. Allergies Can Hit Hard

This surprises a lot of people. Brentwood has working farms inside city limits. Tons of agriculture and a lot of trees, some of which are not allergy-friendly.  Put that together with the wind, and allergies can hit hard. So if you are sensitive to pollen, you might notice it. Spring especially. Not everyone struggles, but some families absolutely do, and that is something I always tell relocation buyers upfront.

9. No Major Hospital in Town

One thing to consider: There are no major hospitals in town.  There are medical offices and one urgent care. But for larger medical facilities or specialized care, you are usually heading to Antioch, Walnut Creek, Concord, or Oakland. It is not too far, but it is a bit of a travel and depending on our family needs, that matters.

10. It Feels Far From “The Bay Area.”

This is the big one. When you tell people you live in Brentwood…You’ll sometimes hear:

“Wow… that’s far.” Because geographically? It is. We like to say you are an hour from everything in the Bay Area. You are not 20 minutes from everything.  Airport trips take planning, big events take planning, nights out in the city, or concerts.  You are intentionally choosing more space, more quiet, more affordability, and not being central.  And for a lot of Bay Area families, that’s the right decision.

Who Brentwood Is Perfect For

Families who want: Newer homes, bigger yards, a slower pace, and a community feel. More house for the money. And who are willing to drive a bit further for big city amenities. If that sounds like you? Brentwood might be the perfect fit.  If you want fast-paced, dense urban living, Brentwood is probably not the place for you. And that’s okay.

Quick Recap

Brentwood is: Big, but a small town. It is residentially heavy and hot in the summer.  It is very family-oriented with top-rated schools. It has great weather, even if it gets a little windy in the spring and hot in the summer. Has great schools, agriculture, and restaurants. It is affordable and a great place to raise a family, and that’s exactly why many people move here and love it.

If you’re thinking about moving to Brentwood or anywhere in East Contra Costa County, follow me here. I post honest breakdowns like this all the time, so you know exactly what you’re walking into.  And if there’s another city you’re curious about, let me know.

The Mashore Group
Krista Mashore & Jaynlin Slone
44 Sycamore Ave
Brentwood, CA 94513
925-325-4663
https://www.TheMashoreGroup.com

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