Walnut Creek Apartments and Rentals

Walnut Creek has become the economic and entertainment center of Contra Costa County, and offers urban attractions in a scenic historic setting. Located 30 miles east of San Francisco, Walnut Creek has a population of 65,000 and greets thousands of tourists throughout the year due to its proximity to Napa Valley and the foothills of Mount Diablo State Park. Walnut Creek apartments for rent have become a popular choice for East Bay residents looking for a family-oriented community with distinctive cultural flair.

Downtown Walnut Creek is bustling with more than 200 boutiques and classic retail stores, and more than 100 restaurants offering an eclectic mix of fine dining and family fare. It’s also a home to a thriving arts community, and the Walnut Creek Chamber Art & Wine Festival draws crowds from the entire Bay Area. Walnut Creek’s location makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and has 22 parks included in more than 2,700 acres of open space. The legendary Ruth Bancroft botanical gardens are a popular summertime destination, while Walnut on Ice in Civic Park is a wintertime family favorite. Walnut Creek’s Mediterranean climate allows for year round outdoor activities, with winter daytime temperatures averaging in the mid 50s. Monthly programs include hiking on Lime Ridge in groups led by a ranger through oak woodlands, grasslands and inland scrub habitats that are home to a mix of wildlife.

Walnut Creek boasts a vibrant local economy, and is home to a diverse mix of industries. According to the 2008 Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce Business Directory, the top employers in Walnut Creek include John Muir Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Bank of the West, Central Garden & Pet, and the City of Walnut Creek.

Walnut Creek residents tend to be highly educated, with 95 percent of the population made up of individuals who are high school graduates or have higher education. Five public school districts serve Walnut Creek students, along with private schools in the city offering K-12 alternative education options. The Contra Costa Community College District is one of the largest in California, and Walnut Creek is a short commute away from its five local campuses.

Walnut Creek provides housing programs for low-income renters, first-time homebuyers and homeowners. The range of programs includes an inventory of affordable Walnut Creek rentals for families and seniors, and rental assistance is available for families or individuals who are struggling to maintain their current rental housing. Low-income homeowners can take advantage of the federal Energy Efficiency Block Grant by making energy efficient home improvements that reduce energy costs. Funds can be used on upgrades such as window replacements, roofing, insulation and energy efficient appliances. According to city-data.com, the median gross rent in Walnut Creek was $1,343.

The annual Festival of Latin Culture downtown street fair features dancing, music and food to celebrate Latin traditions and diversity in the Walnut Creek community. This family fun event also includes piñatas, storytelling and children’s games.

In the fall, Walnut Creek hosts one of the world’s largest Scottish festival celebrations, the Scottish Highland Gathering & Games. More than 20 pipe bands join the U.S. Marine Band as live musical guests, and other highlights of the event include a gathering of the clans, whisky tasting and rugby tournaments.

To find your next rental apartment or house in Walnut Creek, take a look at our listings on Rent.com®.