Living in San Jose as an expat

San Jose is a popular expat destination thanks to its location at the heart of Silicon Valley. Newcomers moving to San Jose will discover that the city is at the forefront of technology and innovation in California, the US, and indeed globally, with many major tech companies establishing a presence here.

Working in San Jose

While technology dominates the San Jose economy, other major industries include finance, aerospace, real estate, retail, insurance, and medicine. Legal services and tourism are also prominent sectors.

There’s a healthy job market, but if you’re looking for work here, be aware that San Jose has a highly educated population, and competition can be fierce. Networking is key, and you should be prepared to compete with experienced candidates from top international universities.

Working in San Jose 
Business Culture in the USA

Lifestyle in San Jose

Beyond the buzzing offices of major tech companies, San Jose offers an idyllic environment perfect for those who enjoy spending time outdoors.

San Jose is located near the southern tip of San Francisco Bay and is surrounded by mountains. This beautiful region offers many recreational facilities, including parks, beaches, and hiking trails.

If you’re looking to escape the city, your options are virtually endless: head to Yosemite National Park, visit the Napa Valley wine region, or spend a day on one of the nearby beaches along the Pacific Ocean. San Francisco is also just a short drive away, and a ride along the Pacific Highway offers an opportunity to explore the magnificent western coastline.

Shopping, Restaurants, Nightlife and Outdoor Activities in San Jose

Finding accommodation in San Jose

San Jose offers a wide range of accommodation types across many neighbourhoods. But prices are high, and supply is low, so the search for a home here can be challenging – you’ll need to act fast if you see something you like. Hiring a real estate agent can ease the process somewhat, with their knowledge of the city and potential early access to listings coming in clutch in a competitive market.

Renting Accommodation in San Jose

Cost of living in San Jose

As the heart of the tech industry, San Jose is one of the wealthiest cities in the USA. Correspondingly, the cost of living in San Jose is also among the highest in the country. Housing, in particular, is expensive due to high demand. That said, high salaries often offset the high cost of living; households in San Jose generally have a higher-than-average disposable income.

Cost of Living in San Jose

Living with children in San Jose

Although it’s one of the largest cities in America, San Jose still retains a small-town feel with a range of neighbourhoods perfect for family life. Keeping the family in good health comes easily in San Jose, with plenty of outdoor activities and top-notch hospitals. On top of that, a temperate climate, relatively low crime rates, high salaries, and a wide range of family-friendly amenities ensure that San Jose offers an excellent quality of life.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose 
Best Hospitals in San Jose

Finding a school in San Jose

San Jose is a wonderful place to raise a family, and newcomers with children need not worry about their education, as there are many exceptional public and private schools in the San Jose metropolitan area. The region is also especially renowned for its tertiary institutions – most notably, Stanford University in nearby Palo Alto.

Education and Schools in San Jose

Getting around in San Jose

Whether you’re travelling by public transport or private vehicle, it’s fairly easy to get around in San Jose. Navigating the city’s grid-based road system is simple. Traffic can be time-consuming, though, so it’s best to look for accommodation close to your workplace to shorten the commute.

Getting Around in San Jose

Climate in San Jose

San Jose has a pleasant Mediterranean climate, one of the major benefits of living here. The city’s location in the San Francisco Bay Area shelters it from the Pacific Ocean, and the area’s mountains provide relief from the typically high rainfall experienced elsewhere in the region.

Weather in San Jose

An exciting, up-and-coming city, San Jose may be expensive, but for those who earn a good salary in the city’s famous tech industry, this Bay Area metro might be just the right place to raise a family.

San Jose is located in the San Francisco Bay Area and is sheltered from the Pacific Ocean by mountains, which provide relief from the rest of the area’s typically high rainfall. A Mediterranean climate defines the weather in San Jose. Average winter lows are around 43°F (6°C), while summer highs are about 82°F (28°C). It’s rare for the mercury to drop below 35°F (1°C) or rise above 92°F (33°C).

The warmest time of year is June to September, during which conditions are ideal for outdoor activities. Clear blue skies and pleasant temperatures are the norm. Winter, from December to February, is colder and brings with it more cloud cover and precipitation.

Working in San Jose is an exciting prospect, but securing a job in this highly desirable area can be challenging. San Jose is in the heart of Silicon Valley, famous for its large concentration of high-tech engineering, computer, and microprocessor companies. As a hotbed of technological innovation, San Jose has also become a mecca for start-ups.

Job market in San Jose

San Jose attracts highly skilled professionals from all over the country and indeed the world, including budding entrepreneurs looking to capitalise on the Bay Area’s progressive attitude and the opportunities available in the high-tech and internet industries.

Beyond the traditional employers associated with Silicon Valley, other sectors that could employ new arrivals looking to work in San Jose include the government, education, and healthcare industries.

Finding a job in San Jose

Highly skilled expats with expertise in their field are likely to find a position in San Jose. Networking is important. It helps to make connections and keep your ear to the ground for new opportunities or upcoming start-ups. Online job portals, social networks, and recruitment agencies are also good sources for finding work and making connections. Start by browsing LinkedIn and Indeed to get an idea of the job market.

In addition to having the proper skill set, qualifications and experience, expats seeking employment in San Jose must ensure they have the correct work permit for the USA.

Work Permits for the USA

Useful links

• LinkedIn
• Indeed

Work culture in San Jose

San Jose is very much in the midst of the Silicon Valley tech bubble, but it also has a fun, bohemian work culture. While it’s unlikely that the financial services sector will forego its formal attire, some of the largest corporations in the Bay Area are known for having a somewhat unorthodox atmosphere geared towards the happiness of their employees.

Many of these companies also place great importance not only on a good work-life balance but also on environmental sustainability and improving the world through technology. Ultimately, the work environment is quite liberal, conscientious, and progressive.

Business Culture in the USA

The cost of living in San Jose is undeniably high. Estimates place the cost of living here at 50 to 80 percent higher than the national average. That said, most residents feel that the positives are well worth the price: gorgeous weather, safe neighbourhoods, and endless activities.

Cost of accommodation in San Jose

Accommodation is incredibly expensive in San Jose, as are utilities. Attracted by Silicon Valley, the city’s population is growing, causing the demand for housing to increase and prices to skyrocket.

New arrivals in San Jose should be prepared to pay sky-high prices for accommodation throughout the city. If budget is a concern, be sure to pick your neighbourhood wisely, as some are more affordable than others.

Renting Accommodation in San Jose 
Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose

Cost of transport in San Jose

Although San Jose has an extensive public transport system that will get you anywhere you need to go in the city, fares are pretty expensive. Owning a car here is also pricey when taking all costs into account, including the purchase price, fuel, insurance, and maintenance.

Parking is also costly in the city, and in some cases, it may actually be cheaper to use Uber instead of driving and paying for parking for an entire day. Budget-conscious new arrivals can also cycle to work in San Jose – good for both your wallet and your waistline.

Public Transport and Driving in San Jose

Cost of entertainment and eating out in San Jose

While there are plenty of fine dining restaurants that charge a fortune for a meal in San Jose, it is possible to eat out on a budget if you know where to go. Some restaurants in San Jose tend to offer prices similar to or even somewhat lower than those in many major global cities. There’s a wide range of cuisines on offer, with some restaurants offering more budget-friendly options than others.

There are plenty of opportunities to spend money at San Jose’s malls and eclectic nightlife spots, but there are also humble live music bars, clubs, museums, and comedy venues for new arrivals from all walks of life to enjoy. As a city in the beautiful sunny State of California, San Jose’s lifestyle prioritises outdoor activities, which are often free or low-cost.

Shopping, Entertainment, and Outdoor Activities in San Jose

Cost of groceries in San Jose

The cost of groceries in San Jose is fairly high. You can reduce your monthly grocery bills by buying in bulk, shopping at budget supermarkets, and only purchasing produce that is in season.

If you’re willing to spend more in exchange for a wider product selection, try high-end grocery shops such as Whole Foods, Draeger’s Market, and Heartland. These shops typically sell organic and speciality goods at a premium.

Cost of healthcare in San Jose

While the standard of healthcare in San Jose is high, it’s expensive to access. If your healthcare needs aren’t taken care of by your employer, you’ll likely need to secure comprehensive health insurance.

The cost of health insurance will vary between individuals based on age, existing medical conditions and lifestyle habits.

Hospitals and Health Insurance in San Jose

Cost of education in San Jose

Public education in the city is free for all to attend, but admission is based on catchment areas. The better-resourced and staffed public schools in the city are located in the upmarket suburbs, so parents looking at this option may have to secure accommodation in these areas.

There are also private and international schools available. Private schools typically have a religious affiliation and their own curriculum and set of admission requirements. Similar to private schools, international schools teach foreign curricula and have excellent facilities, but this comes at a high cost. Parents opting to send their children to private or international schools should budget for the fees, uniforms, excursions and extracurricular activities.

Education and Schools in San Jose

Cost of living in San Jose chart

Prices are in US dollars (USD) and may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for San Jose in December 2025.

Finding suitable accommodation in San Jose is one of the biggest challenges facing expats moving to the city. Those headhunted by tech companies in Silicon Valley are often lucky enough to have their employer provide accommodation or assist them in finding a suitable home. But for many others, finding the perfect home in San Jose can be a bit of a struggle.

San Jose is one of the largest cities in California, with plenty of accommodation options of all kinds available for new arrivals. That said, with the influx of high-income earners relocating to the city due to its proximity to Silicon Valley, property prices and rental rates in San Jose continue to rise annually.

Areas and suburbs in San Jose

San Jose offers a diverse range of areas and suburbs, catering to a wide variety of needs.

Newcomers moving to San Jose with children will love neighbourhoods such as West San Jose, Willow Glen, and Naglee Park, all home to tree-lined streets, spacious homes and beautiful parks.

Meanwhile, young and single professionals who want to be close to work and have easy access to public transport should look no further than Downtown San Jose. There are many types of accommodation in Downtown San Jose, and new arrivals can also enjoy the myriad lifestyle activities on offer.

Those looking to enjoy the luxury side of life would do well in Santana Row, which offers exciting Mediterranean-style shopping and entertainment. Other considerations include Japantown, the Alameda, North San Jose and Little Saigon.

Read Areas and Suburbs in San Jose for more on the city’s neighbourhoods.

Types of accommodation in San Jose

Whether you’re on the hunt for a luxury apartment in the city centre, a large family home in a leafy suburban area, or a skyscraper condo unit, San Jose has plenty to choose from.

San Jose has a mix of furnished and unfurnished accommodation. Furnished accommodation often includes everything from appliances to bedding and curtains. These properties tend to be pricier and usually run on shorter leases. However, unfurnished accommodation rarely means an utterly bare apartment or house, and would still come with large appliances such as ovens, washing machines and fridges. Unfurnished leases usually run for a year or longer.

Finding accommodation in San Jose

Most new arrivals initially rent accommodation in San Jose before deciding whether to remain in the city long term. If you’re looking to buy property in San Jose, be aware that demand is high, and suitable properties tend to sell quickly. It’s best to have proof of funds before searching for accommodation.

Whether you plan on renting or buying property in San Jose, you can get a head start by trawling the internet, even before arriving in the city. There are many useful real estate sites, classifieds, and online versions of local publications that feature property sections.

Those looking to find their ideal home fast should enlist the services of a real estate agent. These professionals can narrow down accommodation options according to an individual’s specifications, provide photos and answer any questions one may have about a property and the rental or buying processes.

Agent fees are generally paid by the person selling the property or the landlord. We do recommend checking with the estate agent before using their services, simply to avoid any hidden fees at the end.

Always view accommodation in person before committing to anything. While in the city, you may also stumble on some great housing options simply by exploring a neighbourhood you like on foot and taking note of any sale or rental signs.

Useful links

• Zillow San Jose
• Apartments.com

Renting accommodation in San Jose

The demand for property in San Jose is high, and since many of the city’s residents are high-earning professionals working in Silicon Valley, landlords are in a position to charge high prices for accommodation.

Making the application

As in most of the US, to secure a rental property, potential tenants must obtain an application form from the landlord. Subsequently, the landlord will contact their chosen tenant, and together, they will sign a standard lease agreement.

Having a US bank account will act in your favour when applying to rent accommodation in San Jose, especially for foreigners without a social security number.

Leases, costs and fees

Most rental contracts are valid for a year, at which point there may be an option to renew.

Tenants will be required to put down an amount equivalent to a month’s rent as a security deposit. This deposit is refundable upon termination of the tenancy agreement. If any damage has been done to the property, the cost of repairs is deducted from the deposit.

See Accommodation in the USA for more on the national rental processes.

Utilities in San Jose

Expats renting accommodation in San Jose should consult the conditions of their lease to find out the details on utilities. The landlord may assume responsibility for utilities such as gas, electricity and water, but tenants will usually be expected to pay for extras such as telephone services, internet, and cable TV packages.

Electricity and gas

New arrivals moving to San Jose would do well to schedule their connection a week or two before moving into their new home. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) oversees the electricity supply in San Jose, and tenants can begin their electricity and gas service by completing a form on their website. This can be done up to 60 days before moving into a new home.

PG&E combines residents’ electricity and gas bills. Payments can be automated and recurring via debit card, credit card or bank account.

Water

Water in San Jose is supplied by the San Jose Municipal Water System (Muni Water), San Jose Water Company and Oak Water Company. Your supplier will be assigned depending on your area in San Jose.

The options for setting up a new service will depend on the water retailer supplying your area. The most common options include setting up water service via phone, email or in person. Similar to electricity and gas connections, newcomers must provide proof of identity and address along with the service start date. Payments can be made online, in person, or through the mail.

Recycling and bins

The City of San Jose’s municipal website offers information on rubbish collection days across the city. The city also offers a free junk pickup service that allows residents to register for a free pickup of large items such as mattresses, sofas, tyres, and refrigerators. There are several collection companies servicing San Jose, so collection processes will differ throughout the city.

For new arrivals living in apartment buildings and complexes, the city will provide green bins for non-recyclable waste and white or blue bins for recyclables.

Useful links

• PG&E
• City of San Jose – Utilities

The best places to live in San Jose

The majority of people moving to San Jose do so because of its proximity to the heart of Silicon Valley. When looking for accommodation, deciding on where to live among the various areas and suburbs of San Jose is one of the main challenges facing new arrivals.

City centre neighbourhoods mostly appeal to young and single professionals. Apartments here may be on the smaller side, and prices can be high, but it’s hard to beat the convenience. Suburban areas may be preferable for those moving to San Jose with a family, as larger houses with yards are more readily available here.

Neighbourhoods for young professionals and singles in San Jose

Downtown San Jose

The heart of San Jose is home to the headquarters of both major and up-and-coming tech companies. For those working at any of these companies, living in downtown San Jose has some serious advantages, not least of which is the short commute.

Those searching for property in this area will find that there is a wide variety of options available, from charming Victorian buildings and California-style bungalows to newly constructed high-rise condominiums.

As well as being close to the office, residents living in downtown San Jose have easy access to a wide range of activities in the city centre. Thanks to the area’s fine dining establishments, fascinating art galleries and exciting theatres, those living close to the city centre have plenty to keep them occupied.

Downtown San Jose is also great for those who enjoy an active lifestyle, as it’s easy to get about on foot, and there are plenty of trails for joggers and cyclists.

Blossom Valley

This is a safe suburban part of San Jose. Blossom Valley is close to many of the sizeable high-tech company offices. The properties in Blossom Valley are reasonably priced in comparison to other parts of San Jose. Accommodation here mainly consists of housing developments and condominiums.

Although Blossom Valley is located some distance away from San Jose’s city centre, one of the main advantages of living here is the area’s excellent shopping facilities, as residents have access to lots of shopping malls, department stores and boutiques. For new arrivals who enjoy the great outdoors, living in Blossom Valley provides residents with access to excellent hiking trails and golf courses.

Japantown

Japantown in San Jose is one of only three official Japantowns in the USA. Young and single professionals looking to maintain proximity to Downtown San Jose while experiencing a unique neighbourhood culture should look no further than Japantown. Most of the accommodation in this neighbourhood is in the form of high-rise apartments and condos.

The lifestyle in Japantown is unmatched and boasts a plethora of restaurants, cafés, shops and cultural facilities. There are also a few annual festivals taking place in Japantown, and there is a weekly farmer’s market on Sundays, so new arrivals will always have something to do.

Family-friendly neighbourhoods in San Jose

Willow Glen

For those who want to live in a more residential area and still have access to the facilities of downtown San Jose, Willow Glen is an option well worth considering. This neighbourhood has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, which can be hard to come by in the city. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area with a host of restaurants, cafés, and shops.

As it’s located so close to San Jose’s downtown area, Willow Glen is home to some prime property, and this is reflected in the high prices. Expats will find numerous Victorian and Spanish-style buildings in Willow Glen, which are ideal for those seeking a home with character. There are also plenty of modern townhouses and condominiums available here. On average, properties in this neighbourhood are a little larger than those found in downtown San Jose.

Silver Creek Valley

This is a small, affluent part of San Jose that offers residents a peaceful sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of San Jose’s city centre. Prospective residents will find several housing options on offer, ranging from luxury homes with landscaped gardens to more modest single-storey properties.

A major draw of Silver Creek Valley is the suburb’s location close to some of San Jose’s top schools. Silver Creek Valley also provides a clean and safe environment for children to grow up in. There are plenty of parks and recreation facilities to keep little ones entertained. In addition, most properties come with a good-sized outdoor area. The downside is that it’s further away from the city centre and most places of work.

West San Jose

West San Jose is a residential area, a mere 15-minute drive away from Downtown San Jose. Families looking for spacious homes away from the city buzz will love West San Jose. This neighbourhood is also home to the premium shopping mall, Santana Row, and houses the West Valley Community College campus.

New arrivals will have access to both public and private healthcare in San Jose. The care offered by its medical institutions and trained staff is of a high standard.

San Jose’s healthcare network includes hospitals, clinics, private practices and pharmacies. There are several public and independent non-profit hospitals in the San Jose area, giving patients access to an array of general and specialised services. Although newcomers can expect to be in the waiting room for more extended periods than at a private institute, new arrivals can rest assured that San Jose’s public hospitals offer an excellent standard of care.

Health coverage in the United States is a contentious issue, and private health insurance is recommended for foreigners, given the country’s high healthcare costs.

Public healthcare in San Jose isn’t free of charge, and foreigners are advised to sign up for a medical aid or health insurance scheme. In some cases, chronic or long-term care may be denied to those who can’t afford it.

Some of San Jose’s private hospitals and clinics are nationally recognised for the level of healthcare they provide in a diverse range of fields, from cancer and stroke care to joint replacement and paediatrics. The one thing these institutions have in common is the high costs associated with them. All but the wealthiest newcomers are likely to find that health insurance is necessary if they want to receive care from a private hospital in San Jose.

Read Healthcare in the USA to learn more about the national healthcare system.

Below are some of San Jose’s most prominent hospitals.

Hospitals in San Jose

Good Samaritan Hospital

Website: www.goodsamsanjose.com 
Address: 2425 Samaritan Drive, San Jose, CA 95124

Kaiser Permanent San Jose Medical Center

Website: www.kaiserpermanente.org 
Address: 250 Hospital Parkway, San Jose, CA 95119

Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara Medical Center

Website: www.kaiserpermanente.org 
Address: 700 Lawrence Expressway, Santa Clara, CA 95051

Regional Medical Center

Website: www.rmc.scvh.org 
Address: 225 North Jackson Ave, San Jose, CA 95116, United States

Stanford Health Care, San Jose

Website: www.stanfordhealthcare.org 
Address: 2585 Samaritan Drive, San Jose, CA 95124

As the heart of the high-tech sector in the US, the greater Silicon Valley area is renowned for its education system, most notably its tertiary institutions.

Public education in San Jose is administered by 15 school districts, the main one in the metropolitan area being the San Jose Unified School District. Educational institutions in San Jose include public, private, and international schools.

Public schools in San Jose

Public schools in San Jose generally offer a high standard of education, although parents are advised to judge each school on its individual merits. It’s a good idea to visit a school in person, meet with the headteachers and request a tour of the facilities.

Attendance at public schools is determined by geographical location. Students attend the public school in the district where they reside. Parents must provide proof that they live permanently within the specific school district.

Choosing a home in a good school district is therefore paramount for newcomers moving to San Jose with children. Generally, the better public schools in Silicon Valley tend to be in the more upmarket areas.

Charter schools

Charter schools are public schools governed by a non-profit board, which includes members of the local school community. These schools operate on a performance-based contract with the local school district. They have more flexibility in terms of their academic programmes and curricula. They tend to offer a higher standard of education than mainstream public schools.

Charter schools are tuition-free and open to any child who wishes to attend. If more students apply than there is space, a lottery will be used to determine who is admitted.

See Education and Schools in the USA for more on the national education system.

Private schools in San Jose

There are many private schools in San Jose and the greater Silicon Valley region. Many of these schools have a religious affiliation or subscribe to a specific educational philosophy, such as the Montessori method.

Each private school sets its admission requirements, which may involve tests and personal interviews. There are no residential boundaries for children attending private schools in San Jose. Nevertheless, competition for places at the best private schools can be intense, and parents should start the application process as early as possible.

Tuition at private schools can be expensive. On top of basic fees, other expenses may include school uniforms, extracurricular activities, textbooks and school excursions.

International schools in San Jose

Given the multinational makeup of San Jose, there are several international schools in the city and the broader Silicon Valley region catering to a variety of nationalities. Some offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, while others teach the curriculum of a particular country. Teaching is often bilingual, combining English with languages such as Mandarin, French, or German.

International schools are an excellent option for expat families living in San Jose on a short-term assignment, as they facilitate a smoother transition from one school to another. Fees tend to be pricey, though. Parents should ensure that they factor this into their contract negotiations if they plan to work in San Jose. Space can also be limited, so the earlier you apply, the better.

Special educational needs in San Jose

San Jose’s education system is equipped to provide for students with learning and developmental disabilities. There are multiple federal laws in place in the US to ensure that children with disabilities have fair access to quality education at no cost, regardless of state.

Both public and private schools in San Jose usually have individualised programmes in place to support students with learning difficulties. In cases where a learner’s disability is too severe for them to benefit from mainstream education, there are special education facilities that can offer students a special needs programme tailored to meet their specific requirements.

Tertiary education in San Jose

There are some world-renowned tertiary institutions in the Silicon Valley region, most notably Stanford University in Palo Alto. Other notable institutions in and around San Jose include Santa Clara University and San Jose State University. There are also several community colleges that offer quality tertiary education.

Tutors in San Jose

San Jose is on the doorstep of Silicon Valley, and parents often use computer science, programming, and IT tutors to give their children a leg up in the highly competitive tertiary sector. Of course, tutors are used in other subject areas too, so whether a child needs help catching up in a new curriculum or additional support to excel in their college entrance exams, there are plenty of private tutors available.

It’s wise to start by asking your child’s school or other parents in the area for a recommendation. Alternatively, you could utilise the services of established tutoring companies. These companies offer an array of packages from subject-specific intensive programmes to one one-on-one home tuition and small group sessions.

Enlisting the services of a private tutor is an excellent opportunity for students to address any gaps in their knowledge, excel at a particular subject, or simply build confidence in their new environment.

With its sunny weather, multicultural population and strategic position in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose offers residents a pleasant and rewarding lifestyle. It might not be as glamorous as neighbouring San Francisco, but for those looking for a modern city that still retains something of a small-town atmosphere, San Jose is definitely worth considering.

The lifestyle in San Jose appeals to every taste and interest. From wineries to museums, theatres, parks and markets, there is always something to enjoy in the city. Further afield, mountains and national parks offer day and weekend getaways for those wanting to explore the wider California region.

Shopping in San Jose

Shopping opportunities are abundant in San Jose, with many large, modern shopping malls, like Westfield Valley Fair. Other popular malls include Westgate Center, Westfield Oakridge, Eastridge Center, and Almaden Plaza.

Santana Row is an upscale shopping district that offers luxury brands and high-end boutiques alongside premium restaurants. If you’re looking for something more unique, try one of the older, eclectic shopping districts, such as the Downtown Historic District, along Paseo de San Antonio, or the San Jose Market Center on Coleman Avenue.

Eating out in San Jose

Although San Jose’s dining scene may not be as well known as neighbouring San Francisco’s, there are plenty of excellent restaurants in the city. With the warm climate, diners can enjoy many lovely al fresco dining options.

As can be expected in such a multicultural and ethnically diverse region, a wide variety of cuisines are available. From budget takeaway outlets to fine dining establishments, from traditional American steakhouses and seafood specialists to Italian, Mexican, and Asian fare, there is something to suit every taste and budget.

Downtown San Jose is particularly popular for eating out, with a range of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops lining the streets. Santana Row also features many dining establishments; it’s best to make a reservation ahead of time if you want to dine in this upmarket area.

Nightlife and entertainment in San Jose

Newcomers will be spoilt for choice when it comes to nightlife and entertainment in San Jose. Downtown is the place to see and be seen, with restaurants, bars, theatres, museums, live music, and comedy venues catering for people from all walks of life.

San Pedro Square has many popular pubs and restaurants, and even a microbrewery to enjoy. The area also hosts an outdoor cinema and a farmer’s market. The SoFA District (South of First Area) is the centre of visual arts and entertainment in downtown San Jose. Known for its eclectic and creative crowd and venues, the area boasts numerous coffee shops, theatres, and galleries.

Sports and outdoor activities in San Jose

As with most of California, outdoor activities are a major part of the lifestyle in San Jose all year round. From the San Jose Rose Garden to the Japanese Friendship Garden, the city boasts numerous outdoor parks and gardens that offer families a relaxing day out in the sun.

Walking and running are also favourite pastimes in the city, particularly along the city’s established trails. A network of bicycle trails also makes it relatively easy to cycle around the city.

Lake Cunningham offers opportunities for fishing and boating, while national parks such as Yosemite National Park and Big Basin Redwoods State Park are ideal for exploring the wilderness over a weekend of camping or hiking. California’s beautiful beaches are also not far away, and a drive along the Pacific Highway offers an opportunity to explore the state’s magnificent coastline.

See and do in San Jose

San Jose Museum of Art

Housing an impressive collection of works from West Coast artists, this museum is a favourite among art lovers in San Jose. While many of the exhibits showcase Californian artists, art from the Pacific Rim is also gaining traction. New arrivals can expect to view a wide selection of works using many different styles and media.

The Tech Interactive

This science and technology centre offers hands-on activities, experimental labs, and design challenges intended to empower innovation and give visitors a taste of how technology can be brought to life. The IMAX Dome Theatre also offers a one-of-a-kind movie experience, utilising the world’s first laser projector in a domed theatre.

San Pedro Square Market

The San Pedro Square Market features an impressive collection of food vendors offering cuisine from all corners of the world. It also hosts live music, film showings, book signings, comedy shows and the odd sports game for visitors to watch. Open every day of the week, this dog-friendly market offers al fresco dining spots from which new arrivals will be entertained while enjoying a meal.

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

Situated in Kelley Park, Happy Hollow is an amusement park and zoo for the whole family to enjoy. It offers thrilling rides, a petting zoo, a puppet theatre and animal exhibits, among other attractions. Those looking for educational fun will discover that the Learning LODGE holds camps and classes that focus on conservation and sustainability.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

History buffs in San Jose will enjoy a visit to the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. Its architectural style is inspired by Ancient Egypt, and visitors will spend some time fully immersed in their culture. The museum houses the most extensive collection of Ancient Egyptian artefacts in the western US, comprising over 4,000 objects. Shows are also hosted at the museum’s planetarium on the weekends.

Meeting people and making friends in San Jose

One of the most daunting aspects of moving to a new city is figuring out where to meet people and how to make new friends. In practice, it’s relatively simple to find others with shared interests, but it does take some courage and initiative. Breaking out of your comfort zone might be tough at first, but engaging with your new community is the ideal way to settle into life in San Jose.

Getting involved in local clubs, societies, and charities is a fantastic way to meet new people in your area. Having a common interest or working towards a shared goal makes it much easier to strike up a conversation. See the links below for a few potential starting points.

Useful links

• Meetup San Jose
• City of San Jose – Volunteer
• ZogSports San Jose Social Leagues

Getting around in San Jose is a breeze thanks to the city’s public transport system, overseen by the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA). What San Jose lacks in subway routes, it makes up for with an integrated transit network consisting of buses, light rail and long-distance trains, which will be easy for newcomers to navigate.

Public transport in San Jose

If you plan to use VTA services frequently, it’s a good idea to pick up a Clipper card. The card can be loaded with credit or a pass allowing travel during a specified period of time (such as a day or month).

Buses

VTA operates a comprehensive bus network which serves millions of passengers a year throughout Santa Clara County.

Route numbers and destinations are visible at bus stops and above the bus’s windscreen. Make sure to have your fare or Clipper card ready before boarding. If you’re paying in cash, use exact change.

Light rail

VTA runs a light rail network in San Jose. Most lines operate daily from 4am to 1.30am. Trains usually arrive and depart every 15 minutes, but this can vary depending on the route and the time of day.

Tickets can be bought from a ticket vending machine at the station or via the EZfare mobile app.

Trains

For longer distances, expats can take the Caltrain between San Francisco, San Jose and Gilroy. The Clipper card can be used for the Caltrain, or tickets can be purchased via the official Caltrain mobile app or at vending machines prior to boarding.

Another option is the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE), which is especially useful for sightseeing between Stockton and San Jose. Tickets can be bought through ACE’s website or at stations and official vendors.

Useful links

• VTA
• Caltrain
• Altamont Corridor Express

Taxis in San Jose

A multitude of cab companies are available to expats who would want to travel by taxi in and around San Jose. Taxis can either be called in advance or hailed on the street and are also available at the airport. However, they are pricier than other modes of transport, but some companies offer discounts for longer distances.

Popular ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft operate in San Jose and can be used via their respective mobile applications.

Useful links

• Uber
• Lyft

Driving in San Jose

Driving is a common way to get around in San Jose, although the city’s traffic is among the worst in the US. On the plus side, navigation is relatively easy, thanks to the grid layout of the streets.

Driver’s licences

International Driving Permits aren’t recognised by the state of California, but valid driver’s licences from foreign countries, states or territories can be used until they expire.

Once foreigners become California residents, they will need to get a local licence. Newcomers from certain countries can transfer their driver’s licence without retaking a driver’s test. Others will need to pass a written traffic law test and a driving test.

Read Transport and Driving in the USA for more on securing a driver’s licence in the country.

Cycling in San Jose

VTA has concentrated its efforts on improving conditions for cycling in San Jose and gearing its transit system towards accommodating cyclists. The Bay Area has a bike sharing system known as Bay Wheels, consisting of approximately 7,000 bikes across 550 stations in San Jose, San Francisco and the East Bay. Single-use, 24-hour and monthly passes are available, which can be purchased via the official mobile app or a Clipper card.

Useful links

• Bay Wheels

Walking in San Jose

Walking in San Jose is a popular pastime, whether for commuting or leisure. Downtown San Jose is particularly walkable, while suburban areas are more spread out, although these are usually covered by the public transport system. Given the generally good weather and the city’s relative safety, those who enjoy getting around on their own two feet will enjoy living in San Jose.