Vallejo, once California's state capital, sits at the northeastern edge of San Pablo Bay where the Napa River meets the Carquinez Strait. This waterfront city offers a direct ferry connection to San Francisco, making it an appealing option for commuters seeking more affordable Bay Area housing. The historic Mare Island Naval Shipyard, which operated for over 140 years before closing in 1996, has been transformed into a mixed-use development featuring residential spaces, wineries, breweries, and businesses in preserved historic buildings.

Rental options in Vallejo include Victorian and Craftsman homes in the St. Vincent's Hill Historic District, modern townhomes in Heritage District, and apartment communities throughout neighborhoods like Glen Cove and Somerset Highlands. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,770, significantly lower than San Francisco prices while still providing Bay Area access. Glen Cove and the Marina Vista areas offer waterfront views, while neighborhoods near Columbus Parkway provide convenient access to Gateway Plaza Shopping Center and other retail destinations. Downtown Vallejo features the Georgia Street arts corridor, with galleries, studios, and monthly Art Walk events.

Vallejo's transportation options make it well-connected to the region, with Interstate 80 providing access to Sacramento and San Francisco, and the San Francisco Bay Ferry offering a 55-minute commute to downtown San Francisco. Major employers include Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, and Touro University California. Beyond work, residents enjoy Six Flags Discovery Kingdom theme park, the California Maritime Academy's waterfront campus, and the Mare Island Preserve. The Mediterranean climate keeps Vallejo about 10 degrees cooler than inland cities, with mild temperatures year-round.