13 Cities Near San Jose, CA to Live in 2025

Are you looking for an apartment in cities near San Jose, CA? Find out more about commute times, average rent, and the San Jose lifestyle here!

If you want Silicon Valley convenience outside of San Jose, start with Santa Clara (~5 mi) and Campbell (~7 mi) for short commutes and lively downtowns. For tech hubs and higher-end housing, Sunnyvale (~10 mi) and Milpitas (~12 mi) stand out with strong job markets and bike-friendly streets. If you’d rather balance affordability and space, look toward Fremont (~17 mi) or Livermore (~40 mi). For coastal living, Santa Cruz (~32 mi) and Half Moon Bay (~41 mi) offer stunning outdoor amenities with longer commutes. And for a more relaxed lifestyle, consider Monterey (~72 mi), Napa (~80 mi), or Sacramento (~90 mi).

San Jose has no shortage of surrounding cities, but we’ve narrowed it down to the top 13 that really stand out. We’ll highlight the pros and cons of each city so you can pinpoint the ideal rental for your lifestyle.

A note about data: All rental data is sourced from Apartment List (2025 estimates). Walk, bike, and transit scores are provided by Walk Score. Cost of Living (COL) figures are based on Sterling’s Best Places index, benchmarked against Detroit’s overall Cost of Living score (91.8). Commute times reflect typical rush hour traffic (8:00–9:30 AM) using the most direct routes. Median household income and population figures come from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The 13 Best Cities Near San Jose, CA

Top Cities Near San Jose By Distance

1. Santa Clara

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 5.3 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 20 minutes via El Camino Real
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 8 minutes via VTA Light Rail
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 36 minutes via Park Ave
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $3,614
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $4,456
• Population: 1,013,240
• Median Household Income: $136,229
• Cost of Living Index: 231 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 58
• Transit Score: 41
• Bike Score: 74
• Unique Feature: Levi’s Stadium and major Silicon Valley employers
• Who Would Love It: Tech workers and families seeking top schools
• Who Should Skip It: Budget renters

Is Santa Clara a good place to live near San Jose?

Santa Clara blends suburban living with Silicon Valley energy. Just five miles from downtown San Jose, it offers world-class entertainment at Levi’s Stadium, a thriving job market, and highly rated schools. Though rents are steep, the convenience and amenities make it a prime choice for professionals and families.

2. Campbell

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 7.2 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 18 minutes via I-280 S
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 12 minutes via VTA Light Rail
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 40 minutes via Los Gatos Creek Trail
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,769
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,357
• Population: 43,959
• Median Household Income: $147,128
• Cost of Living Index: 231 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 55
• Transit Score: 39
• Bike Score: 71
• Unique Feature: The Pruneyard Shopping Center and lively farmers market
• Who Would Love It: Families seeking a safe, small-town feel near the city
• Who Should Skip It: Renters looking for nightlife

Is Campbell a good place to live near San Jose?

Campbell is a charming suburb only seven miles from San Jose, known for its welcoming neighborhoods, bustling farmers market, and the Pruneyard’s dining and entertainment. With strong schools and a family-friendly vibe, Campbell is a quieter and slightly more affordable alternative to Santa Clara.

3. Sunnyvale

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 12.4 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 24 minutes via US-101 S and CA-87
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 11 minutes via Caltrain
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 1 hour and 4 minutes via Park Ave
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $3,622
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $4,521
• Population: 155,805
• Median Household Income: $189,443
• Cost of Living Index: 231 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 60
• Transit Score: 40
• Bike Score: 78
• Unique Feature: Downtown Murphy Avenue dining and shopping district
• Who Would Love It: Tech professionals wanting short commutes
• Who Should Skip It: Renters on a budget

Is Sunnyvale a good place to live near San Jose?

Sunnyvale, just 10 miles from San Jose, is at the heart of Silicon Valley. It combines a vibrant downtown with proximity to tech giants like Apple and Google. While rents are among the highest in the region, Sunnyvale attracts professionals seeking convenience, culture, and family-friendly amenities.

4. Milpitas

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 10.5 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 18 minutes via I-680 S
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 1 hour and 12 minutes via 66 Bus
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 42 minutes via N Milpitas Blvd
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $3,086
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,607
• Population: 80,273
• Median Household Income: $179,727
• Cost of Living Index: 231 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 54
• Transit Score: 36
• Bike Score: 66
• Unique Feature: Great Mall of the Bay Area
• Who Would Love It: Renters seeking affordability close to San Jose
• Who Should Skip It: Those looking for a walkable city

Is Milpitas a good place to live near San Jose?

Milpitas sits just northeast of San Jose and is best known for its sprawling Great Mall. The city has a diverse community and provides relatively more affordable rents compared to Sunnyvale or Santa Clara.

Its suburban feel appeals to families, but the area is more car-dependent. With short commutes and big-box conveniences, Milpitas is practical for renters who prioritize value.

5. Los Gatos

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 10.5 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 22 minutes via CA-17 N
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus: 52 minutes via 27 Bus, 61 Bus, and Green Line
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 57 minutes via Los Gatos Creek Trail
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,928
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $4,649
• Population: 33,529
• Median Household Income: $207,891
• Cost of Living Index: 231 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 47
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 51
• Unique Feature: Boutique-filled downtown and scenic trails
• Who Would Love It: Families and nature lovers
• Who Should Skip It: Renters needing low-cost housing

Is Los Gatos a good place to live near San Jose?

Los Gatos combines luxury living with outdoor recreation. Its downtown is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and wine bars, while nearby trails and parks provide easy access to nature.

It’s a quiet, upscale community with excellent schools. While rent is high, those seeking charm, safety, and a balance between city access and outdoor living will find Los Gatos ideal.

6. Cupertino

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 10.5 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 18 minutes via I-280 S
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 43 minutes via Rapid 523
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 53 minutes via Stevens Creek Blvd
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $3,315
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $4,215
• Population: 60,381
• Median Household Income: $231,139
• Cost of Living Index: 231 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 48
• Transit Score: 32
• Bike Score: 65
• Unique Feature: Founding Silicon Valley city and home to Apple
• Who Would Love It: Tech workers and families
• Who Should Skip It: Budget renters

Is Cupertino a good place to live near San Jose?

With high-paying tech jobs, top-tier public schools, and a high safety rating, thanks to its suburban layout, Cupertino is one of the best places to live near San Jose for tech professionals and families. The quality of life is very high, though you can expect to pay for it, as Cupertino also has one of the highest costs of living in California.

7. Saratoga

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 13.2 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 24 minutes via CA-17 N
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 44 minutes via 56 Bus and Green Line
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 1 hour and 2 minutes via W Campbell Ave
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,400
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,653
• Population: 31,051
• Median Household Income: $241,348
• Cost of Living Index: 231 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 28
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 45
• Unique Feature: Proximity to the Santa Cruz Mountains and Wineries
• Who Would Love It: Families, affluent renters, outdoor lovers
• Who Should Skip It: Budget renters

Is Saratoga a good place to live near San Jose?

As a quiet town surrounded by tech giants, Saratoga offers the best of both worlds–job opportunities and suburban serenity. With a high safety rating, it’s an excellent place to raise a family, and there’s plenty of access to great hikes, biking trails, and wineries.

8. Mountain View

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 15.0 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 24 minutes via US-101 S
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 14 minutes via Caltrain Express
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 1 hour and 21 minutes via W Evelyn Ave
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $4,054
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $5,041
• Population: 82,376
• Median Household Income: $181,671
• Cost of Living Index: 231 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 66
• Transit Score: 41
• Bike Score: 92
• Unique Feature: Home to Google
• Who Would Love It: Tech workers, outdoorsy types, affluent renters
• Who Should Skip It: Budget renters or non-tech workers

Is Mountain View a good place to live near San Jose?

As home to Google HQ, Mountain View is arguably a tech-run town. People who live here also say it’s one of the safest and friendliest places to raise a family. The schools are top-notch, the biking infrastructure is outstanding, and it’s a close distance to several key spots throughout the Bay Area. As with many neighborhoods close to San Jose, you’ll have to shell out quite a lot for the privilege of living there.

9. Fremont

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 17.3 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 35 minutes via I-880 S
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 37 minutes via ACETrain
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 1 hour and 33 minutes via Warm Springs Blvd
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,833
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,662
• Population: 230,504
• Median Household Income: $170,934
• Cost of Living Index: 195.5 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 50
• Transit Score: 36
• Bike Score: 54
• Unique Feature: Mission Peak hiking and suburban neighborhoods
• Who Would Love It: Families and commuters needing more space
• Who Should Skip It: Renters who want city nightlife

Is Fremont a good place to live near San Jose?

Fremont is one of the Bay Area’s largest suburbs, offering diverse neighborhoods, good schools, and plenty of parks. Its biggest draw is Mission Peak, a popular hiking destination with panoramic views.

Housing is more affordable than Sunnyvale or Santa Clara, making it popular with families. However, the city lacks the vibrant nightlife and cultural scene of closer suburbs.

10. Los Altos

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 17.6 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 26 minutes via I-280 S
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 55 minutes via Rapid 522
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 1 hour and 27 minutes via Homestead Rd
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,891
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,485
• Population: 31,625
• Median Household Income: $250,000+
• Cost of Living Index: 231 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 46
• Transit Score: 27
• Bike Score: 73
• Unique Feature: Semi-rural, tree-lined community
• Who Would Love It: Families and affluent renters or homebuyers
• Who Should Skip It: Renters seeking nightlife or low-cost housing

Is Los Altos a good place to live near San Jose?

Los Altos is one of the most comfortable suburbs in the heart of Silicon Valley. While it may not be exciting in terms of nightlife or activities, it’s an excellent place to raise a family and enjoy safe living. The Downtown area is quaint and has done well to resist incoming big-box stores. If you can afford to live here, you can certainly build a stable and peaceful life.

11. Palo Alto

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 19.0 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 28 minutes via US-101 S
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 28 minutes via Caltrain
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 1 hour and 54 minutes via Bay Trail and Guadalupe River Trail
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,934
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,823
• Population: 68,572
• Median Household Income: $184,068
• Cost of Living Index: 231 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 61
• Transit Score: 37
• Bike Score: 91
• Unique Feature: Adjacent to Stanford and Birthplace of Silicon Valley
• Who Would Love It: Families and tech workers who love great weather
• Who Should Skip It: Those looking for diversity or low-cost housing

Is Palo Alto a good place to live near San Jose?

With its safe, suburban environment, great schools, and bikeability, Palo Alto is a great place to raise a family. The weather is very palatable and it’s easy to commute to other places throughout the Bay Area. Just note that the cost of living is extremely expensive.

12. Atherton

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 19.0 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 28 minutes via US-101 S
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 28 minutes via Caltrain
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 1 hour and 54 minutes via Bay Trail and Guadalupe River Trail
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,600
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,950
• Population: 7,188
• Median Household Income: $25,000
• Cost of Living Index: 250 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 55
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 66
• Unique Feature: Exceptionally wealthy private neighborhoods
• Who Would Love It: Ultra-wealthy families in search of privacy and exclusivity
• Who Should Skip It: Those seeking diversity or low-cost housing

Is Atherton a good place to live near San Jose?

As one of the wealthiest zip codes in the country, Atherton is very upscale. You’ll find gated homes in private neighborhoods. It may not be the best place to meet people or explore local entertainment and businesses, but if you’re looking for peace and safety, and can afford the insanely high cost of living, Atherton is a wonderful place to call home.

13. Menlo Park

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 22.7 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 40 minutes via US-101 S
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 31 minutes via Caltrain
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 2 hours and 8 minutes via Bay Trail
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $4,101
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $7,075
• Population: 33,780
• Median Household Income: $206,588
• Cost of Living Index: 250 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 58
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 80
• Unique Feature: Home to Meta Platforms HQ and the prestigious Sand Hill Road
• Who Would Love It: Families seeking safety, access to nature, and high-end living
• Who Should Skip It: Budget renters

Is Menlo Park a good place to live near San Jose?

The beautiful, well-kept Bay Area town of Menlo Park is one of the safest and most pleasant cities near San Jose. There are plenty of nature reserves on the outskirts of town, public schools are highly-rated, and the temperate climate is beautiful all-year-long. However, you will have to go elsewhere for nightlife and entertainment.

Willing to Go the Extra Mile?

If you're open to a longer commute or are a remote worker looking to spread your wings in some of the best surrounding San Jose cities, there are a few places we’d highly recommend looking at. They might sit a little farther from San Jose, but they bring plenty to the table, from roomier apartments to a change of pace that actually feels like a break. Just don’t forget to factor in traffic (and maybe a solid podcast lineup).

1. Santa Cruz

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 32 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 45 minutes
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus: 1 hour via Highway 17 Express
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 2 hours via CA-17 N
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $3,232
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $4,591
• Population: 62,956
• Median Household Income: $111,427
• Cost of Living Index: 186 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 63
• Transit Score: 35
• Bike Score: 86
• Unique Feature: Beaches, boardwalk, and surf culture
• Who Would Love It: Outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers
• Who Should Skip It: Long-distance commuters

Is Santa Cruz a good place to live near San Jose?

Santa Cruz offers a laid-back, coastal lifestyle just 45 minutes from San Jose. From the famous Boardwalk to its surfing spots, it’s a hub for outdoor adventure.

The artsy downtown adds dining and entertainment options, while UC Santa Cruz contributes a youthful vibe. Housing costs remain high, but renters gain access to the ocean and relaxed living.

2. Livermore

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 40 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 1 hour
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 1 hour and 20 minutes via ACE Train
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 3 hours via CA-84 W
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,549
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $3,135
• Population: 87,955
• Median Household Income: $151,705
• Cost of Living Index: 195.5 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 41
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 66
• Unique Feature: Wineries and Livermore Valley charm
• Who Would Love It: Renters seeking space and wine country living
• Who Should Skip It: Those needing fast commutes

Is Livermore a good place to live near San Jose?

Livermore is known for its wineries, rolling hills, and family-friendly neighborhoods. It’s a more affordable alternative to Silicon Valley cities, offering a slower pace of life.

While the commute into San Jose is long, Livermore provides large rentals, good schools, and plenty of open space, making it attractive for families and professionals who work remotely.

3. Half Moon Bay

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 41 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 1 hour
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus: 1 hour and 30 minutes via Caltrain and SamTrans
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 3 hours via CA-92 E
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,600
• Starting Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,835
• Population: 11,795
• Median Household Income: $153,199
• Cost of Living Index: 250 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 88
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 81
• Unique Feature: Coastal trails and seafood dining
• Who Would Love It: Ocean lovers, renters seeking peace
• Who Should Skip It: Those seeking nightlife

Is Half Moon Bay a good place to live near San Jose?

Half Moon Bay is a scenic coastal town with beaches, hiking trails, and a tight-knit community feel. Known for its seafood and annual pumpkin festival, it’s a getaway spot turned residential gem.

Though housing costs are high, renters enjoy unmatched coastal charm. Commutes to San Jose can be challenging, but many choose Half Moon Bay for its beauty and lifestyle.

4. Monterey

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 72 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 1 hour and 20 minutes
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 2 hours via Monterey-Salinas Transit and Caltrain
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 6 hours via CA-1 N
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,404
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,936
• Population: 30,218
• Median Household Income: $104,110
• Cost of Living Index: 151.9 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 53
• Transit Score: 31
• Bike Score: 47
• Unique Feature: Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row
• Who Would Love It: Ocean lovers and history buffs
• Who Should Skip It: Daily commuters to San Jose

Is Monterey a good place to live near San Jose?

Monterey is one of California’s most historic coastal cities, with attractions like Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and scenic 17-Mile Drive. It’s a beautiful place to live or rent.

The downside: it’s a long commute from San Jose, making it better suited for remote workers. Still, Monterey delivers ocean views, cultural history, and a strong tourism-driven economy.

5. Napa

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 80 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 2 hours and 30 minutes via VINE Transit and Amtrak
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 7 hours via CA-29 S and CA-12 E
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,542
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,944
• Population: 79,246
• Median Household Income: $103,601
• Cost of Living Index: 161.3 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 51
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 60
• Unique Feature: Napa Valley wine country
• Who Would Love It: Wine lovers and those seeking luxury suburban living
• Who Should Skip It: Renters needing fast commutes or affordability

Is Napa a good place to live near San Jose?

Napa is world-famous for its vineyards and upscale lifestyle. Just 80 miles from San Jose, it offers wine-country charm, luxury rentals, and boutique shopping.

It’s a pricier option with limited direct commuting, but for renters who value scenery and community, Napa offers a unique alternative to Silicon Valley.

6. Sacramento

• Miles away from downtown San Jose: 90 miles
• Commute time to San Jose via Car: 1 hour and 45 minutes
• Commute time to San Jose via Bus/Train: 2 hours and 30 minutes via Amtrak Capitol Corridor
• Commute time to San Jose via Bike: 8 hours via I-680 N and CA-12 E
• Average Rent for a One-Bedroom Apartment: $2,108
• Average Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment: $2,519
• Population: 524,943
• Median Household Income: $85,925
• Cost of Living Index: 127.2 (San Jose = 231)
• Walk Score: 49
• Transit Score: 34
• Bike Score: 67
• Unique Feature: California’s capital with diverse amenities
• Who Would Love It: Renters seeking affordability and jobs outside tech
• Who Should Skip It: Those who want to stay close to Silicon Valley

Is Sacramento a good place to live near San Jose?

Sacramento is California’s capital and offers a mix of historic charm, government jobs, and growing industries. It’s far more affordable than San Jose.

The commute is long, but for renters prioritizing affordability and space, Sacramento provides a balance of opportunity, culture, and cost savings.

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Make Your Move: Start Apartment Hunting

The cities near San Jose, CA have something for everyone, from tech opportunities to coastal and vineyard retreats. Not sure where to make your next move or how to find the best apartment for you?

Take our personalized quiz to find your perfect match and make your next move with confidence. We’ll help you save you tons of time and stress!

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in San Francisco

What are the downsides of living in San Francisco?

The biggest downsides are the very high cost of living, a visible homelessness crisis, and heavy traffic. San Francisco also has some of the highest state and local taxes in the country, which can strain budgets. Foggy weather and competitive job and housing markets add to the challenges renters may face.

Why are people moving to San Francisco?

People move to San Francisco for career opportunities in technology, finance, and healthcare, as well as access to cultural amenities and natural beauty. The city is a global tech hub with companies like Salesforce, Uber, and OpenAI headquartered nearby. Many newcomers also move for the food scene, public transportation options, and the chance to live in one of the country’s most diverse cities.

What are the biggest risks of living in San Francisco?

High housing costs and economic inequality are the most pressing risks for residents. Wildfire smoke, earthquakes, and poor air quality also raise environmental concerns. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood, with some areas reporting higher rates of property crime. Renters should weigh these risks against the professional and cultural opportunities the city provides.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in San Francisco?

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult typically needs at least $60,966 per year to live comfortably in San Francisco. A family of four may need around $183,000 annually, depending on housing and lifestyle. These figures account for rent, groceries, transportation, healthcare, and taxes, all of which are higher than the national average.