According to the website, Berkeley is a city with a small population and a big reputation. And they are right. Who discussing the North American education system would not mention Berkeley in the conversation?
The West Coast community most popular for the University of California, Berkeley is also noted for free speech and scientific exploration. And if that wasn't enough, what about the sensational subdivisions and regional recreation? Needless to say living in Berkeley would not be a bad deal at all.
To find out more about the municipality, take a moment and read this guide that will inform you on area education, cost of living, culture and more.
Berkeley Climate
With an average low of 42 in January and an average high of 73 in July, locals love the Mediterranean climate that never gets too hot or too cold in the region. With only 62 days a year of any measurable precipitation, and no snowfall at all, locals rarely have to seek shelter from the storm--rather they are out enjoying the 265 sunny days the sector sees a year. Of course as in any California community, you must always be aware of a potential earthquake in the province. That is why it is so important to know how to prepare for an earthquake since they can happen at any given time.
Berkeley Neighborhoods
Needless to say, many neighborhoods in Berkeley are made up of young adults attending the famed campus in town. Northside, a subdivision north of the college, is less dense and more serene compared to living in Downtown Berkeley, which is thickly populated with commercial business. Directly north of the city center is Gourmet Ghetto, named for its large population of restaurants. West Berkeley, the former town of Ocean View, is built up with history since it was the hub of the industrial age back in the day. Now the area has many loft-like apartments that are popular among locals.
Registering Your Car
To complete the registration process, your vehicle must also be inspected by the California Division of Motor Vehicles. You have 20 days to register your car after becoming a state resident and you must provide smog and weight certification, your last issued out of state title and proof of insurance. You only have 10 days to acquire a driver's license after becoming a resident and you must provide a thumbprint, fill out a DL 44 form, have your photo taken, and provide your full name and Social Security number. You must also pass vision, traffic and road sign tests.
Berkeley Schools
Need more be said? As home to one of the most famous colleges in the world, the town touts top-of-the-line education in a sensational scenic environment. This is proven by the Graduate Theological Union, the largest doctoral college in America, being right in town with nine theological schools on its campus. And if that wasn't enough excellent post-secondary education, throw in Berkeley City College, a two-year associate's of arts program available to area students. Prior to college, youth attend the Berkeley Unified School District for a public education, while others attend one of the number of private schools in the region for a religious-based education.
Berkeley Employment
According to the city's 2011 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, education, science and healthcare lead the economy with the three top employers in the region listed as University of California, Berkeley with almost 14,000 employees; Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory with 4,200 staff members; and Alta Bates Summit Medical Center with more than 3,000 laborers. With a 6.7 unemployment rate as of April 2013, the California community proves to be a prosperous province offering many jobs in several industries. Other top employers include the City of Berkeley, Kaiser Permanente and Pacific Steel.
Living Costs in the City
Yes, the cost of living in Berkeley is 52.9 percent greater than the national average; however, remember the low unemployment rate. Though there are many other cities across America that are much less expensive to live in, many of them have a high unemployment rate. According to CNN Money, $97,067 is the median family income and $551,188 is the median home price. The cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the region starts at a minimum of $1,500 and rises much higher depending on the locale and luxury of unit. As for utilities, that greatly depends on the family size and usage of services.
Berkeley Moving Resources
Moving and storage companies are ready and willing to help you with your move to Berkley, whether you’re moving from out of state or from another county in California. Make sure you get estimates from multiple moving services before you commit to hiring any (at least three estimates). Check back to our guides for tips on how to choose your moving service wisely with important questions to ask, differentiating between types of estimates, and mistakes to avoid. Visit the following pages at Movers.com to get quotes for the following services:
Berkeley Transportation
As for public transportation, AC Transit, Amtrak, BART and major area employers serve residents who need a ride. With one of the highest pedestrian and bicycle populations in the nation, locals look forward to incorporating transportation and exercise together daily. When flying in and out of the area, locals go to either the Oakland International Airport or the San Francisco International Airport.
Culture & Contemporary Life
The college population alone keeps the city hustling and bustling with things to do. Between parks, museums, theaters, symphonies, clubs, restaurants and more, local love to have a good time in Berkeley. Some popular places in the province you are always sure to find residents gathered together at are Telegraph Avenue, People's Park and Berkeley Marina to name a few. Many annual events like the Jewish Music Festival, Berkeley Arts Festival and the Solano Avenue Stroll are enjoyed by residents of all ages.
Berkeley Relocation Tips
- If you are reading this article because your employer has asked you to relocate or a family member is calling you closer, always remember the things you should consider when moving out of state.
- So you have decided to do it and you have hired a moving company to transport your life across state lines. Once they have arrived with your life in their flat bed, be aware of the truck driver's moving day responsibilities.
- No matter where you are coming from or moving to, you are going to have to travel, hence fuel. With that in mind, please consider the importance of gas usage and implement alternate ways of saving fuel.