City Limits

San José – Spanish for St. Joseph – is the economic, cultural, and political capital of Silicon Valley, and the largest city in Northern California. With a population of more than 1.1 million, it is the third-largest city in California and 10th-largest in the United States. Due to its nature as a hub of innovation, San José is a global city, with a Mediterranean climate, and extremely high cost of living.

San José is among the wealthiest major cities in the world, with the third-highest GDP per capita (after Zürich, Switzerland, and Oslo, Norway), according to the Brookings Institution. The San José metro area is home to the most millionaires and billionaires per capita of any city in the United States. With a median home price of $1.1M, it also boasts one of the most expensive housing markets in the country – and the world.

SAN JOSé By the Numbers

#TECHLIFE

Befitting a city that refers to itself as the “Capital of Silicon Valley”, San José is home to global tech giants, including Cisco Systems, eBay, Adobe Systems, PayPal, Broadcom, Acer, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and Western Digital, and Samsung Semiconductor recently opened their North American headquarters here.

#HeartsDelight

San José has evolved from the heart of an agricultural paradise to a hub of technology and urban activity. The remnants of the city’s orchard past remain, including a fruit tree in almost every backyard. Look for pockets of apricot, lemon, and plum trees as you cruise through quaint neighborhoods of single-family homes.

Where to go

Santana Row is Silicon Valley’s premier destination for shopping, dining, living, working and playing, offering 2.1 million square feet of retail, office, hotel and residential space. Indulge in a world-class mix of brands, boutiques, and culinary craft.

Winchester Mystery House – This architectural wonder and historic landmark was once the personal residence of Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune. The mansion she built is world renowned as much for many design curiosities and innovations (many ahead of their time) as it is for reported paranormal activity. Will you be able to unlock the mystery?

San Pedro Square Market – Just a 10-minute walk from SAP Center, home of the NHL’s Sharks, this is Downtown San José’s meet-up spot. The lively public market includes over 20 unique vendors selling everything from sushi to tapas to home goods, as well as a number of bars serving craft cocktails, beer, and wine.

WHERE TO EAT, DRINK & HANG

Oveja Negra – “Black Sheep” offers a menu of “unruly” tapas. Experience a modern twist to traditional tapas with globally inspired, shareable dishes.

Luna Mexican Kitchen – Traditional Mexican dishes and ancient superfoods are the specialty at this family-run local favorite. No matter the season, the menu will always revolve around Mexican traditions of corn, chili and beans.

Ludwig’s German Table – A fresh German dining experience set within the historic Germania Hall in Downtown San José. The interior of the original bar has been transformed into a modern day setting with small reminders of traditional Germany.

Academic Coffee – This family-owned coffee and pastry shop in Downtown San José has outdoor seating and easy walking access to theaters, galleries, and clubs in the SoFA Arts District.

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