Welcome to San Jose
An epicurean city full of diversity.
Nestled at the southern end of San Francisco Bay and ensconced by majestic mountains, the stunning city of San Jose serves as the political, financial, and cultural pulse of Silicon Valley. With a population that’s hovering around one million residents, San Jose is ranked as the third-most populous city in the state of California. Its position as the seat of Santa Clara County and the capital of the Silicon Valley means that this vibrant city is not only bustling with life, it’s also a location of affluence, innovation, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
In 1849, San Jose was the first city formally incorporated into California, though its rich history spans back as early as 4000 BC. The Tamyen people of the Ohlone Indians were the first to occupy the land, and in 1777 San Jose became the first established town of the Spanish colony Nueva California. With a long tradition of being innovators and pioneers, San Jose’s progressive and industrial attitude is unparalleled. Now the home of several major tech corporations like Adobe, Cisco, PayPal, eBay, Sage Intacct, San Jose’s status as a hotspot for success grows every day.
San Jose is a city of affluence, ranked as one of the wealthiest cities in the United States and the world. The residential housing is as diverse as the city itself, and homes can range from historic Colonial revivals to magnificent modern mansions featuring Spanish style influences and luxury amenities. The city is also replete with an abundance of palatial apartments and condos available and residential options to suit every need.
What to Love
People & Lifestyle
San Jose isn’t only known for its affluence and modern contributions—the city also houses one of the most diverse mixes of ethnicities in the state. The population here is highly-educated, enterprising, and come from diverse cultural backgrounds. San Jose’s abundance of employment opportunities and excellent school system makes it an ideal place for families and individuals searching for an ideal urban lifestyle.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The sparkling city of San Jose is a shopper’s paradise, home to several premium outlet malls in addition to one-of-a-kind boutiques. Visit the prestigious
Santana Row to browse luxury brands and local stores, with options like the elegant
Penelope Boutique—a women’s fashion-forward designer boutique—that can satisfy your need for exclusive finds. While you’re there, take advantage of the many spa locations and services, such as
BellaU Spa and Wellness, which will leave you feeling pampered and relaxed.
With so many dining options in San Jose, it’s impossible to list them all. The city boasts an expansive variety of cuisines and styles, venues, and atmospheres. At
Le Papillon, an enticing fine dining restaurant featuring globally-inspired, French traditional cuisine, diners can enjoy the quiet, refined ambiance. Dedicated to presenting some of the best flavors from Brazil,
Taurinus Brazilian Steakhouse offers a chance to experience Rodinzo, a popular style of barbecue composed of a continuous selection of cuts and meat, all for one fixed price.
Things to Do
San Jose is always bustling with life and activity, as is evidenced by its ample outdoor recreational spaces, festivals, museums, breweries, music venues, and entertainment options. Take the kids to visit
The Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose, where they can enrich their minds and explore with fun, interactive activities.
Families and those of all ages can delight at the plentiful festivals of San Jose—many of which are nationally renowned. Revel in the magic at
Christmas in the Park, an annual event that draws hundreds of thousands each year for the over 40 displays, live entertainment, food, and holiday cheer. Enjoy live performances from over 1,000 musicians at the
San Jose Jazz Fests, one in summer and one in winter. Their summer festival has become the nation’s largest jazz festival, and their winter event features performances in intimate venues for both established stars and those on their way up.
San Jose also boasts over 200 local parks, 60 miles of trails, and proximity to several regional parks, as well. Explore 13 miles of trails at
Alum Rock Park, which provides equestrian and bike paths, or head to the nearby
Castle Rock State Park to enjoy sweeping vistas, lush forests, and some of the best hiking in the state.
Schools
San Jose is home to many excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
- BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, 5-12, highly-rated private school
- Bellarmine College Preparatory, 9-12, highly-rated private school
- The Harker School, PK-12, one of the top-rated private high schools in the state
