Is Pleasant Hill a good place to live? Yes, living in Pleasant Hill CA has much to offer, which we cover in our extensive relocation guide! This vibrant suburban city has a welcoming atmosphere, low violent crime, a lovely climate, and excellent schools, which we discuss in depth below. It was incorporated in 1961 and has roots in agriculture (walnut and pear orchards), with its first inhabitants being the Miwok people.
Whether you’re exploring the scenic Iron Horse Trail, enjoying community events at City Hall, or discovering local boutiques, this city lives up to its name.
What Is Pleasant Hill Known for?
Pleasant Hill, California, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, vibrant community, and suburban charm. Often called “The Bay Area’s Backyard,” Living in Pleasant Hill CA provides award-winning schools, well-maintained parks, and a lively downtown with shopping and dining options galore. The city is also close to wine country, with renowned wineries like Wente Vineyards just 34.2 miles south.
People living in Pleasant Hill CA enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and lakefront events, including food truck nights and summer concerts. Though the cost of living is high (44% above the national average), Pleasant Hill’s quality of life, strong community spirit, and convenient location make it a desirable place to live.
Where Is Pleasant Hill CA?
Pleasant Hill is located in Contra Costa County in the eastern San Francisco Bay area. Pacheco, Reliez Valley, Walnut Creek, and Alhambra Valley border the city. It’s 27.6 miles from Pleasant Hill CA to San Francisco CA. Living in Pleasant Hill is desirable thanks to its easy access to Interstate 680 (I-680), Highway 24, and State Route 242.
Transportation – Pleasant Hill BART Station
Is Pleasant Hill CA a good place to live if you rely on public transit? Thanks to its convenient location within the Bay Area, Pleasant Hill boasts excellent public transportation options.
Pleasant Hill/Contra Costa Centre BART Station is the city’s central transportation hub. BART offers direct transportation to Oakland and San Francisco, making it the most popular commuter route; the commute is 27.9 miles and usually 38 minutes.
For public bus transportation, Pleasant Hill residents utilize the Central Contra Costa Transit Authority. This is ideal for local transportation and getting to nearby cities like Walnut Creek, Concord, and Martinez. Routes 7, 9, 11, 14, 15, 18, 35, 92X, 97X, 311, 316, 335, and GSR serve Pleasant Hill California.
If you prefer eco-friendly transit, Iron Horse Regional Trail is a 32-mile scenic horse and bike trail connecting various neighboring cities. You can go northbound toward Martinez & Concord or southbound toward Danville and Dublin.
Living in Pleasant Hill, CA, offers an ideal location that boasts convenient access to big-city living with close proximity to various Bay Area communities, minus the hustle and bustle.
Pleasant Hill Population & Demographics
The Pleasant Hill CA population is 34,613, per the 2020 Census. Although the median age is 42.5, 47% of its population is 39 years old or younger, making it a popular place for families to reside. It boasts the 20th-highest median income of 50 Contra Costa County cities and the 24th-highest median age.
Additional Demographics
- Sex ratio: 50 females to 50 males
- Poverty rate: 6.1% (US average 11.1%)
- Median household income: $144,513 (US average $78,538)
- Mean travel time to work: 30.2 minutes
- Ownership of occupied units: 64% owned VS 36% rented
- Educational attainment:
- 95.8% high school diplomas
- 55.5% bachelor degrees
- Foreign-born population: 18.5%
Pleasant Hill, CA, boasts diverse demographics and an interesting racial and ethnic makeup.
What Is the Ethnicity of Pleasant Hill?
Pleasant Hill, CA, is a diverse suburban city with a unique blend of cultures. While 61.3% of residents identify as White (with 56.1% identifying as non-Hispanic White), the city is also home to a significant Asian population (17.3%), alongside Hispanic or Latino (15.2%), Black (3.7%), Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (0.7%) and Indigenous (0.3%) communities. 13.5% of residents identify as two or more races.
Pleasant Hill’s proximity to tech hubs like San Francisco and Silicon Valley has drawn many Asian professionals and families to the area, particularly those working in engineering, biotech, and IT. The highly rated educational institutions, such as Diablo Valley College, have also contributed to growth, attracting international students and families prioritizing education.
Living in Pleasant Hill CA provides unique racial and ethnic demographics only the Bay Area offers.
Is Pleasant Hill CA Safe?
Is living in Pleasant Hill CA safe? According to the FBI, Pleasant Hills’ crime rate is 79.1% higher than the state and 119.0% higher than the country:
- Pleasant Hills crime rate per 100,000 people: 5,091
- California crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,843
- US crime rate per 100,000 people 2,324
Pleasant Hill boasts an exceptionally low violent crime rate that’s 37.7% lower than the state and 15.9% lower than the country. There is a 1 in 321 chance of becoming a violent crime victim when living in Pleasant Hill CA. The murder rate per 100,000 people is 0!
- Pleasant Hill violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 311
- California violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 500
- US violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 370
The city’s highest crime area is in the property crime department, with 1,628 total property crimes being committed in 2022.
- Pleasant Hill property crime rate per 100,000 people: 4,780
- California property crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,343
- US property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,954
These figures are 104.0% higher than the state and 144.6% higher than the country.
Although these figures are higher than the state and country averages, the city of Pleasant Hill is making ample efforts in crime rate prevention to help bring these statistics down!
Police Department
The Pleasant Hill Police Department provides quality protection to the area’s residents. For information on how the department functions, explore the about page. The department is technologically advanced and offers an online crime-reporting system for those unable to go to the station physically.
Cost of Living Pleasant Hill CA – Is It Expensive to Live in Pleasant Hill?
According to its Cost of Living Index (COLI), it’s 44% more expensive to live in Pleasant Hill than the average US city but 0.8% more affordable than the average city in California.
When compared to nearby cities, you’ll see Pleasant Hill is an affordable option:
- Oakland CA Cost of Living Index: 140
- San Mateo Cost of Living Index: 176
- Berkeley CA Cost of Living Index: 170
Typical *Pleasant Hill living expenses:
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: $25.00
- Gallon of milk: $5.46
- Loaf of white bread: $4.54
- Pound of white rice: $2.87
- Dozen eggs: $5.74
- Pound of local cheese: $9.39
- Average Pleasant Hill utilities per month: $405 (per Doxo)
- What is the sales tax in Pleasant Hills CA?: 9.25%
*The Above statistics are for Oakland, meaning prices may differ when living in Pleasant Hill CA.
Is living in Pleasant Hill CA affordable for families? According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four would need a household income of $184,113 to live comfortably in Contra Costa County. Housing costs will equal around $31,115 annually, and child care (if applicable) will be around $14,509.
While Pleasant Hill offers countless attractive attributes, they come with a steep price tag. Housing is 89% higher than the US average, with utilities being 45% higher and groceries costing 16% more.
Homes for Sale Pleasant Hill CA – Market Overview
The Pleasant Hill real estate market is very competitive. Homes sit on the market for a median of 19 days and sell for 60% above the listing price. The is $1,140,00, and the average price per square foot is $657.
While the houses for sale in Pleasant Hill CA are costly compared to the US median ($419,200), Pleasant Hill boasts more affordable housing than nearby San Francisco, which has a median sale price of 1.3 million.
Living in Pleasant Hill CA can get expensive, especially if you plan to buy a home. However, renting is a great option; 36% of people living in Pleasant Hill CA rent instead of owning.
Renting in Pleasant Hill – Does Pleasant Hill Have Rent Control?
Despite not having a rent control ordinance, the average rent in Pleasant Hill is $2,519 for an 826-square-foot rental, which is far more affordable than Los Angeles ($2,733), San Francisco ($3,397), and East Bay ($2,629).
Best Neighborhoods in Pleasant Hill CA
Before living in Pleasant Hill CA can become a reality, you must find the best neighborhood to call home!
Poets Corner – Large Lots
Homes for sale in Poets Corner are highly desired as they boast large lots and a family-friendly atmosphere. They’re typically priced between 1 and 2 million and are over 2,000 square feet. It’s considered extremely bikeable and is served by the following public schools: Pleasant Hill Elementary, Pleasant Hill Middle School, and College Park High School.
Valhalla – New Construction
Valhalla is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and people with children. It is close to Paso Nogal Park, Contra Costa Country Club, and Valhalla Elementary School. This community hosts established residences and newer construction, meeting everyone’s preferences.
Housing prices are also lower, with some listed in the high 600,000s and low 700,000s.
Gregory Gardens – Historic Homes
Expect tree-lined streets and charming homes within Gregory Gardens. The landscape is mature, and the homes are a mix of ranch-style and mid-century modern. Aside from its beautiful home, it boasts proximity to Pleasant Hill Park and Las Juntas Open Space. You will fall in love with the welcoming atmosphere of Gregory Gardens when living in Pleasant Hill CA.
Pleasant Hill Weather & Climate
Like the climate in San Francisco, Pleasant Hill has a (Csa) Koppen climate classification, which is described as a hot-summer Mediterranean climate. The summers are long and dry, and the winters are short and mild. In the warm season (June to October), the average daily high is 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average daily high in the cold season (November to February) is 61 degrees.
It’s rainiest in the winter, with a 29% chance of rain on any given day in January and a 0% chance in July. There is no snowy season here. The best time to visit Pleasant Hill is between June and September, when the temperatures are warm and the rain is minimal. Overall, living in Pleasant Hill CA boasts enjoyable weather most of the year.
What Zone is Pleasant Hill CA?
Do you have a green thumb? You should note that Pleasant Hill, California, is in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 9b; 9 indicates a tropical region, with b indicating a milder winter than Zone 9a.
Things to Do in Pleasant Hill
There are attractions galore in Pleasant Hill. From a bustling downtown area to ample outdoor recreation options, you’ll never run out of things to do in Pleasant Hill CA.
Cinemark Century Downtown Pleasant Hill 16 and XD
Cinemark Century, also known as the Pleasant Hill movie theatre, is located in the city’s downtown area and is an excellent option for family outings or date nights.
125 Crescent Dr, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, (925) 288-1371
Pleasant Hill Park
With over 269 acres of park space, Pleasant Hill is the place to live if you enjoy outdoor activities. Pleasant Park is one of the top in the city thanks to its large playground, pool, picnicking areas, a walking path, and bocce ball courts.
147 Gregory Ln, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, (925) 682-0896
Contra Costa Country Club
The Contra Costa Country Club hosts the most notable golf course in Pleasant Hill, making it a top attraction for visitors and residents alike. Most people living in Pleasant Hill CA take advantage of the course year-round, as the city has a wonderful climate with no snowy season.
801 Golf Club Rd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, (925) 798-7135
More on What to Do in Pleasant Hill
You will never run out of things to do when living in Pleasant Hill CA!
Pleasant Hill Parks and Rec maintains 14 parks, the Pleasant Hill Senior Center, Aquatic Center, and Community Center, and hosts countless community events annually. After exploring their community calendar, you will see that the city offers adult sports leagues, fitness classes, and enrichment programs.
Shopping Options
One of the best things about living in Pleasant Hill CA is the shopping! Crossroads Shopping Center, Downtown Pleasant Hill, and Courtyard Shopping Center are the three most notable malls/shopping plazas.
Restaurants in Pleasant Hill CA
The city of Pleasant Hill is home to hundreds of dining options you should explore. Here are the best restaurants in Pleasant Hill to try.
Jack’s Restaurant & Bar
Jack’s is one of the top Pleasant Hill restaurants thanks to its robust menu, great service, and tasty dishes. They serve brunch and unique menu items like avgolemono soup and lamb chops.
60 Crescent Dr Suite A, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, (925) 849-6195
Wence’s Restaurant
Wence’s serves American cuisine and fresh seafood such as oysters, tacos, and pasta. You’ll find an extensive menu here.
1922 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, (925) 566-8971
Slow Hand BBQ
If you’re craving barbecue after moving to Pleasant Hill, Slow Hand is the place to try. It’s casual but delicious; people love their tri-tip, hot links, and beef rib.
1941 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, (925) 942-0149
Living in Pleasant Hill CA is great if you enjoy eating out and trying new types of cuisine!
Jobs in Pleasant Hill CA
Is living in Pleasant Hill CA, good for young professionals? It offers the perfect balance of economic development without sacrificing that small-town charm.
The leading industries here are health care & social assistance, professional, scientific, & technical services, and retail trade, with major employers being Kaiser Permanente (hospitals and clinics), Target (retail), Robert Half International, and Starbucks. Pleasant Hill hosts Sunvalley Shopping Center and is within a short commute from the Bay Area’s tech and finance centers.
The city’s economic development department works closely with local businesses to help support growth and encourage residents to shop locally. For example, a recent program gave 6,709 residents e-gift cards valued between $5 and $100, generating $476,891 in economic activity across 71 participating businesses.
The first step to ensuring living in Pleasant Hill CA becomes a reality is researching Pleasant Hill jobs. If you work in the public sector, City of Pleasant Hill jobs and Pleasant Hill School District jobs offer great opportunities.
Pleasant Hill Schools – Public, Private, & Montessori
Mount Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD) serves K-12 public school students living in Pleasant Hill CA. MDUSD hosts several good schools, including Walnut Acres Elementary School (high proficiency in English and mathematics), Valhalla Elementary School, Valley View Middle Schools, and Northgate High School (top 100 California high schools).
Which public schools are your student zoned for when living in Pleasant Hills CA?
Elementary schools in Pleasant Hill CA:
- Pleasant Hill Elementary School
- Gregory Gardens Elementary School
- Valhalla Elementary School
- Sequoia Elementary School (a magnet school, requires application)
Middle schools:
- Pleasant Hill Middle School
- Sequoia Middle School (a magnet school, requires application)
High schools in Pleasant Hill CA:
- College Park High School
While acceptance to any school is not guaranteed, Mount Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD) offers limited open enrollment through its intradistrict transfer and interdistrict transfer programs.
Private & Montessori Options
Living in Pleasant Hill CA also offers top private school options such as Pleasant Hill Adventist Academy, The Seven Hills School, Contra Costa Christian Schools, and Fountainhead Montessori School.
Nearby Colleges
Diablo Valley College (DVC) is an award-winning two-year community college located within 2 miles of the city. John F. Kennedy University is the nearest university to Pleasant Hill.
Additional Resources
Pleasant Hill Library offers ample educational resources to all cardholders; you can apply for a Pleasant Hill library card online or by visiting the local branch at 2 Monticello Avenue Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. While you’re there, check out the thousands of books and community events—you won’t be disappointed.
Pleasant Hill Map
Explore more to do when living in Pleasant Hill CA with this map of Pleasant Hill.
Statistics & Information
- Pleasant Hill CA county: Contra Costa County
- Pleasant Hill area: 7.08 square miles
Pleasant Hill zip code: 94523 - Pleasant Hill area code: 925
- Pleasant Hill elevation: 52 feet
- Pleasant Hill time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC-7 and -8)
- Closest airport to Pleasant Hill: Oakland International Airport (OAK) is 27 miles from Pleasant Hill
Moving to Pleasant Hill With AMS Relocation
As you can see, living in Pleasant Hill CA is terrific. It offers a low violent crime rate, good public schools, and tons to do. If relocating to this unique Bay Area suburb interests you, let AMS Relocation be your chosen Pleasant Hill movers. Call (650) 284-2931 today for a free quote from the area’s most trusted moving company!
