Redwood City Gem

California may be known for its temperate weather, but Redwood City boasts the added distinction of having tied the Canary Islands and North Africa’s Mediterranean Coast for the world’s best climate in a 1920s U.S. and German test -- hence, the city’s motto, which officials have plastered on signs around town: “Climate Best by Government Test.” Around 81,000 people live in Redwood City according to 2013 United States Census Bureau estimates. 
The city is located near the middle of the San Francisco Peninsula and is surrounded by rolling hills and bay shoreline. Redwood City also boasts a revitalized downtown, which is home to restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, as well as the San Mateo County government center and courthouse. Some downtown parking meters even let you add time via cell phone. 
The city limits include the Redwood Shores neighborhood on the waterfront, which is physically separate from the rest of Redwood City and borders San Carlos and Belmont. The district houses the headquarters of Oracle Corp. and Electronic Arts. In the hills above the city lies the Emerald Hills neighborhood, a beautiful residential area that’s home to Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve and close to Interstate 280.
The median household income is $79,000, and the median home value is $765,000 according to 2013 U.S. Census Bureau data. Of the city’s 29,167 housing units, 52 percent are owner occupied.