The Best San Jose Neighborhoods for Every Lifestyle in 2025

San Jose’s best neighborhoods include Downtown San Jose, known for its vibrant nightlife and prime access to San Jose State University, and Garden Alameda, which appeals to young professionals and students and offers excellent walkability. Additionally, Berryessa is a great option, offering top-tier schools and safe streets for families.

We sifted through the data to identify 12 of the best places to live in San Jose, based on safety, livability, affordability, transit options, and amenities. (Some neighborhoods appear more than once, so in total, the list has nine different neighborhoods.)

Note: To effectively rank San Jose neighborhoods, we gathered internal data from Apartment List and cross-referenced it with data from Rent.com to give you the most accurate snapshots of rent. Supplemental data for neighborhood rankings are from Niche.com, including Crime Grade and Walk Score (for walk, bike, and transit scores).

What Are the Most Walkable San Jose Neighborhoods?

St. Leo’s

• Best For: Renters who want a true urban feel within walking distance of downtown, with easy access to bars, brunch spots, light rail, and bike lanes.
• Walk Score: 92
• Bike Score: 87
• Transit Score: 64
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,615
• Crime Grade: Average

St. Leo’s is one of the most walkable pockets in San Jose, with a grid of side streets tucked just west of downtown. Residents can get to Diridon Station, Whole Foods, and dozens of local restaurants without ever needing a car. It’s popular among renters who want a mix of city energy and neighborhood charm—think vintage apartments, casual cafes, and weekend bike rides on the Guadalupe River Trail.

Though crime scores are average, the area stays busy throughout the day, which helps with overall safety. Renters here tend to be professionals working downtown or SJSU grad students who want a short commute and a little more breathing room than the city center offers. With an average two-bedroom rent of $3,615, St. Leo’s isn’t the cheapest, but it delivers on walkability and location.

Sunol-Midtown

• Best For: Young professionals and transit riders looking for a walkable neighborhood that’s close to Diridon Station and the Midtown arts scene
• Walk Score: 87
• Bike Score: 86
• Transit Score: 60
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,525
• Crime Grade: Average

Sunol-Midtown offers one of the best mixes of transit access and neighborhood feel in central San Jose. Bounded by The Alameda, this area places renters within walking distance of Diridon Station, the SAP Center, and several light-rail stops. The neighborhood boasts an active bike culture and a growing cluster of breweries and coffee shops, making it especially appealing to younger renters who prefer not to rely on a car.

Average rents for a two-bedroom sit around $3,525. While crime levels are on par with much of central San Jose, Sunol-Midtown’s growing popularity comes from its location—it’s easy to get downtown, to the Peninsula, or to the airport without much hassle. For tech workers or creatives commuting north or west, it offers flexibility without full urban congestion.

Garden Alameda

• Best For: Renters who want a quieter neighborhood near downtown with strong bike access and a short hop to Caltrain.
• Walk Score: 83
• Bike Score: 86
• Transit Score: 57
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,477
• Crime Grade: Average

Garden Alameda stands out for its quiet streets and easy access to downtown without feeling like you're in the middle of the city. Located just north of the core, the neighborhood is known for older single-family homes, shaded sidewalks, and a short bike ride to the Diridon Station transit hub. It's especially popular with renters who want proximity to work and transit, but prefer a more laid-back, residential atmosphere.

At $3,477 for a typical two-bedroom, Garden Alameda sits just below some of the trendier districts but still offers strong connectivity. Bike and walk scores are high, and it's easy to catch a VTA route or head south to Tamien Station. Though crime grades are average, the area maintains a well-kept, established feel that appeals to professionals who value quiet evenings and short commutes.

What Are the Best San Jose Neighborhoods for Families?

Berryessa

• Best For: Families who want quiet streets, great schools, and easy BART access for Bay Area commutes.
• Public School Grade: A
• Overall Niche.com Grade: A-
• Average two-bedroom rent: $2,986
• Crime Grade: Above average

Berryessa offers families a public school rating, an A- Niche.com score, and an average two-bedroom rent of $2,986 (under the citywide average of $3,230), making it an affordable, great place to raise kids. The school district has ten elementary schools and three middle schools, and according to Niche.com, has a student-teacher ratio of 24 to 1.

With multiple parks nearby and easy access to BART, the neighborhood offers more than just your standard family-friendly perks.

Blossom Valley

• Best For: Renters looking for solid schools, quiet streets, and family-friendly parks in a more affordable area.
• Public School Grade: A-
• Overall Niche.com Grade: B+
• Average two-bedroom rent: $3,402
• Crime Grade: Above average

Blossom Valley also stands out for families, boasting an A- public school rating, a B+ Niche.com grade, and average-priced two-bedroom units at $3,402 (slightly above the citywide average of $3,230). Notable schools include Hayes Elementary School and Sakamoto Elementary School.

In the area, residents will find local playgrounds, and the neighborhood is also conveniently close to shops and restaurants, making it easy to explore for fun activities.

Willow Glen

• Best For: Families who value walkability, a small-town feel, and charming homes near parks and cafes.
• Public School Grade: B+
• Overall Niche.com Grade: A
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,900
• Crime Grade: Above average

Families interested in affordable housing with excellent schools should consider the Willow Glen area. It offers an impressive B+ school rating, as well as an overall A rating from Niche.com, and low housing costs relative to San Jose rental prices. A standard two-bedroom apartment in Willow Glen costs approximately $2,900 per month, with the city average at $3,230.

Popular schools in the area include Branham High School and Willow Glen Elementary. The above-average crime grade also highlights the area's overall safety, making it a great choice for families seeking budget-friendly neighborhoods, good schools, and a secure environment.

What Are the Best San Jose Neighborhoods for Young Adults?

Downtown San Jose

• Best For: Renters who want to live in the heart of the action with walkable nightlife, tech hubs, and transit.
• Transit Score: 60
• Diversity Rating: A+
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $6,236
• Crime Grade: Average

Downtown San Jose is the city’s most energetic and connected neighborhood, making it ideal for young professionals who prioritize location over price. You’re surrounded by nightlife, theaters, coworking spaces, and major employers like Adobe and Zoom, all within walking or biking distance. With VTA light rail stops throughout and Diridon Station nearby, transit options make car-free living realistic.

The average two-bedroom rent is high at over $6,200, but renters here are paying for proximity and access. Despite the busy setting, the crime grade remains average, and many newer buildings offer security features like controlled access and smart locks. For renters who want a social lifestyle and a short commute, this is the city’s hub.

Garden Alameda

• Best For: Young adults seeking quieter streets, strong bike access, and a short commute to downtown or SJSU.
• Transit Score: 57
• Diversity Rating: A
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,477
• Crime Grade: Average

Garden Alameda offers a quieter, residential alternative to downtown without sacrificing access. Located just north of the city center, it’s popular with renters who work downtown or along the Peninsula but want calmer streets and a strong neighborhood feel.

You’ll find shaded sidewalks, local coffee spots, and easy access to Diridon and Tamien stations. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is around $3,477, making it relatively affordable for its location. With an average crime grade and good bike access, Garden Alameda works especially well for professionals who prioritize peace, proximity, and a little more space.

Santana Row

• Best For: Upscale renters who want a walkable, luxury lifestyle with shopping, dining, and entertainment at their doorstep.
• Transit Score: 50
• Diversity Rating: A
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $4,919
• Crime Grade: Below average

Santana Row combines high-end retail, restaurants, and luxury housing in a single walkable district, making it a magnet for young adults with room in their budget. The area is ideal for renters who want a “live-work-play” setup with valet parking, rooftop lounges, and co-living options built in.

Transit is available, but not as robust as in downtown areas, so many residents here still rely on a car. That said, crime rates are lower than average, and the neighborhood feels well-maintained and secure. At just under $5,000 for a two-bedroom, it’s a premium lifestyle, but one that delivers convenience, comfort, and built-in entertainment.

What Are the Best San Jose Neighborhoods for Students?

Downtown San Jose

• Best For: Living next to campus and walkable nightlife
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $6,236
• Proximity to Universities: Directly adjacent to SJSU; <15 min to Santa Clara University via VTA or Caltrain.
• Diversity Rating: A+
• Crime Grade: Average

Downtown San Jose is the most convenient neighborhood for San José State University students, with classrooms, libraries, and cafes just a few blocks away. The area is busy and highly walkable, with late-night eateries, coffee shops, galleries, and a variety of events at Plaza de César Chávez and San Pedro Square. It also connects easily to Santa Clara University via Caltrain or VTA bus routes.

Rent here is the highest in the city, but many students offset costs by living with roommates or renting studios. The density means occasional noise and foot traffic, but if you're looking for direct access to both academics and nightlife, Downtown is hard to beat, especially with a Walk Score of 79 and Bike Score of 91.

Garden Alameda

• Best For: Quieter, student-friendly streets near downtown
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,477
• Proximity to Universities: 5 minutes by bike or transit to SJSU; Caltrain to Santa Clara & Stanford
• Diversity Rating: A
• Crime Grade: Average

Nestled between the Diridon transit hub and the west edge of Downtown, Garden Alameda offers a calm, residential vibe just outside the city core. It’s popular among SJSU students who want to live near campus but prefer quieter streets and larger accommodations. The area has a Walk Score of 83 and a Bike Score of 86, which are significantly higher than the city's average Walk Score of 51 and Bike Score of 62.

The neighborhood features low-rise apartments, older homes, and access to parks like Cahill and O’Connor. With Caltrain running directly to Santa Clara University and Stanford, it’s a strong option for students attending multiple campuses. Rent is lower than in downtown areas, and the proximity to Whole Foods and the SAP Center adds everyday convenience.

Naglee Park

• Best For: Walking-to-campus living with a residential feel.
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,725
• Proximity to Universities: Next to SJSU campus, easy walk or bike; short VTA ride to Santa Clara University
• Diversity Rating: A
• Crime Grade: Above average

Just east of the SJSU campus, Naglee Park is a quiet neighborhood that blends student housing with single-family homes and older apartment complexes. Many students walk or bike to campus from here, and the area has a tight-knit, laid-back feel, characterized by green streets and limited commercial activity.

It’s a popular spot for students who want proximity without the noise and cost of downtown. The rent is the lowest of the three neighborhoods listed, making it ideal for budget-conscious renters. The area is primarily residential, so nightlife and dining options are better found a few blocks west, but the tradeoff is peace, shade, and a strong sense of community.

Find Your Perfect San Jose Apartment

San Jose is a quintessential California town, offering a slice of the good life. There’s a “perfect” neighborhood for everyone, but choosing the right one comes down to your budget, daily routine, and lifestyle. Here are the top contenders:

• Best Overall for Urban Living: Downtown San Jose – unmatched walkability, access to SJSU, nightlife, and top employers like Adobe.
• Best for Families: Berryessa – A-rated public schools, low crime, and affordable rents for growing households.
• Best for Young Adults: Santana Row – modern, upscale living with shopping, entertainment, and a live-work-play vibe.
• Best for Students: Naglee Park – walk-to-campus location near SJSU, tree-lined streets, and the lowest rent of student-friendly neighborhoods.
• Most Walkable: St. Leo’s – 92 Walk Score, close to downtown, light rail, cafes, and bike-friendly streets.
• Whether you’re searching for quiet parks, top-ranked schools, or affordability, San Jose’s neighborhoods each bring their own mix of perks. Take our Apartment List quiz to find your perfect match within minutes.

Best San Jose Neighborhood FAQs

What is the safest neighborhood in San Jose?

Neighborhoods like Berryessa, Blossom Valley, and Willow Glen consistently earn above-average safety grades, with lower crime rates and a strong sense of community, which make them ideal for families and long-term renters.

What are the most walkable areas in San Jose?

St. Leo’s, Sunol-Midtown, and Garden Alameda are the top recommendations for walkability, each with Walk Scores above 80 and stronger-than-average bike infrastructure. These neighborhoods let you ditch the car and still access cafes, transit, and downtown amenities.

Where do creatives live in San Jose?

Artists and other creatives tend to gather in areas like Downtown San Jose and Sunol-Midtown. These areas have easier access to community art spaces, music venues, and live/work-style apartments.

Is San Jose affordable for renters?

No, San Jose is a notoriously expensive city, with high rents. However, you may be able to find affordable housing in neighborhoods like Berryessa, South San Jose, or Naglee Park.

What neighborhood has the best access to public transit in San Jose?

Downtown San Jose offers the best overall public transportation options in the city. There are multiple VTA light rail lines, BART, and Caltrain that meet at Diridon Station.

Downtown leads in transit access, followed closely by Midtown and the Museum District, thanks to multiple METRORail lines and bus routes.

What is the average rent in San Jose in 2025?

As of August 2025, a one-bedroom apartment in San Jose averages $2,924, with a two-bedroom averaging $3,495. Neighborhoods like Willow Glen and Naglee Park have rents that fall below the city average while still remaining close to the center.

What’s the cost of living like in San Jose compared to other major cities?

San Jose’s cost of living is 131% higher than the U.S. national average. That said, rent in San Francisco is even higher than in San Jose, with the average rent in San Francisco at $3,727 and in San Jose at $3,230.

Is San Jose a good city for remote workers?

Yes, there are many San Jose neighborhoods that cater to remote workers. Areas like Downtown San Jose, Santana Row, The Villas, Garden Alameda, and Naglee Park are all excellent for those working from home or at cafes.

How is the traffic in San Jose?

Traffic can build up on 101, 280, and 87 during peak hours. If you’re looking to avoid long commutes, living near Downtown, North San Jose, or Sunol-Midtown can help. Bike lanes and light rail also provide alternatives in the most connected neighborhoods.

Where do young professionals live in San Jose?

Many young professionals and tech workers live in Santana Row, Sunol-Midtown, or St. Leo’s, where the commute is easy and there’s walkable access to bars, fitness studios, and restaurants. These areas also offer a mix of newer apartments and older, more affordable housing options.

Which part of San Jose is the best?

“Best” is relative and really depends on what you enjoy and your overall lifestyle. Downtown San Jose is excellent for walkability, nightlife, and proximity to SJSU. Willow Glen offers charm and some good ‘ole peace and quiet, while Berryessa is a lighthouse for affordability and families.