Tucked along the Carquinez Strait in the East Bay, Martinez, CA is a city that surprises and delights with its unique blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and small-town warmth. Known as the county seat of Contra Costa County and one of California’s oldest towns, Martinez is where past and present come together in all the best ways.
For those looking to plant roots somewhere rich in character—with an easygoing lifestyle and deep community ties—Martinez is more than a destination; it’s a place to call home.
Founded in the 1800s and famously home to naturalist John Muir, Martinez has a proud legacy. Its preserved downtown still echoes that historic charm, with Victorian architecture, antique shops, and independent boutiques lining its walkable streets. But make no mistake—Martinez is also looking forward, with new restaurants, breweries, and small businesses bringing fresh energy to this established town.
The city’s waterfront is a growing hub for recreation and community life, with a marina, bocce ball courts, waterfront trails, and beautiful open spaces inviting locals to connect, play, and unwind.
Martinez offers an abundance of green space, perfect for outdoor lovers and active families. Rankin Park, Hidden Lakes Park, and Waterfront Park offer trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic spots for walking or birdwatching.
For hiking enthusiasts, the nearby Briones Regional Park and Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline provide panoramic views, rolling hills, and a connection to the natural beauty of the East Bay. Plus, the Alhambra Creek Trail runs right through town, ideal for casual strolls and family bike rides.
The historic downtown district is one of Martinez’s crown jewels. It’s home to art galleries, cozy cafés, wine bars, and a beloved farmers market. Events like the Art in the Park Festival, Main Street car shows, and the ever-popular Fourth of July parade give residents a sense of belonging and celebration year-round.
Local favorites like Barrelista Coffee House, States Coffee & Mercantile, and Del Cielo Brewing have turned the downtown into a welcoming hub where neighbors gather and new connections are made.
Martinez is served by the Martinez Unified School District, which includes well-rated schools like Alhambra High School. The city features a variety of neighborhoods, from hillside homes with views to established communities with tree-lined streets and charming bungalows.
Homebuyers are drawn to Martinez for its more accessible pricing compared to other Bay Area cities, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers, families, and even those looking to downsize without sacrificing community feel.
Conveniently located near Highway 4, 680, and the Amtrak/Capitol Corridor train station, Martinez is well-connected for commuters heading to Oakland, Walnut Creek, or even Sacramento. Yet despite its location, it feels refreshingly tucked away—a peaceful retreat within easy reach of the Bay Area's major work centers.
What truly sets Martinez apart is its people. There’s a strong sense of community, where neighbors greet one another and small businesses know your name. It’s a place where history is honored, creativity is welcomed, and life feels just a little bit slower—in the best way.
49,230 people live in Martinez, where the median age is 41.2 and the average individual income is $54,569. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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There's plenty to do around Martinez, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Shotokan Karate Academy, Pleasant Hill Pumas Track and Cross Country Club, and R3 Aesthetics.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
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| Active | 4.68 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.31 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.76 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.51 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Martinez has 19,163 households, with an average household size of 2.54. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Martinez do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 49,230 people call Martinez home. The population density is 798.7 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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