County of contra costa
california
History & Founding
Located in the eastern San Francisco Bay Area of California, this county boasts a rich history intertwined with the state’s development. Established in 1850, during California’s initial rush for statehood, it was formed from portions of Alameda, San Joaquin, and Solano counties. The name “Contra Costa” is Spanish for “opposite coast,” a reference to its location on the eastern side of the San Francisco Bay, opposite San Francisco. Early Spanish explorers used the term to describe the difficult passage around the headlands of the bay. During the Gold Rush, the county served as a crucial supply route and agricultural hub for the burgeoning population in the Sierra Nevada foothills. A fascinating anecdote highlights this era: in 1853, a massive flood swept through the county, destroying bridges and farmland, but also revealing previously unknown gold deposits, briefly sparking a localized gold rush of its own.
Geography & Landscape
The county’s geography is remarkably diverse. Situated along the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay, it encompasses a landscape that transitions from rolling hills and fertile valleys to the rugged slopes of the Diablo Range. Major rivers, including the San Joaquin River and Walnut Creek, traverse the area, contributing to its agricultural productivity. Mount Diablo, the county’s highest point at 3,849 feet, dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views of the Bay Area. The climate is Mediterranean, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The Diablo Range provides a natural barrier, influencing weather patterns and creating microclimates throughout the county.
Economy & Communities
A complex tapestry of communities defines the area. Thirty-nine cities and towns, ranging from bustling urban centers like Walnut Creek and Concord to smaller, more rural communities, contribute to the county’s unique character. The economy is driven by a mix of industries, including healthcare, technology, finance, and retail. Agriculture, while diminished from its historical prominence, still plays a role, with vineyards, orchards, and livestock farms contributing to the local economy. Major employers include Kaiser Permanente, John Muir Health, and Chevron. The area is predominantly suburban, with a growing urban presence in its central cities. A strong sense of community is evident in the numerous local events and festivals that take place throughout the year.
Points of Interest
Numerous points of interest draw visitors to the region. Mount Diablo State Park offers extensive hiking trails and breathtaking views. The Lindsay Wildlife Experience provides educational opportunities focused on wildlife rehabilitation. The Rankin Art Museum showcases a diverse collection of artwork. The annual Walnut Creek Arts & Crafts Festival is a popular event. Notable residents have included actors Kurt Russell and Melissa Joan Hart. The county holds the record for the highest number of wineries per square mile in the United States, a testament to its burgeoning wine industry. The historic downtown Martinez, with its Victorian architecture, provides a glimpse into the county’s rich past.
Information
- State
- california
- Type
- County
- Population
- 948,816
- Land area
- 720 sq mi
- Capital
- Martinez
- Time zone
- UTC-8
- FIPS
- 06013
39 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Concord | 121,780 | 80 ft (24 m) |
| Richmond | 99,216 | 50 ft (15 m) |
| Antioch | 90,532 | 40 ft (12 m) |
| Walnut Creek | 64,296 | 200 ft (61 m) |
| Pittsburg | 56,769 | 30 ft (9 m) |
| San Ramon | 44,722 | 480 ft (146 m) |
| Danville | 41,715 | 368 ft (112 m) |
| Martinez | 35,866 | 23 ft (7 m) |
| Pleasant Hill | 32,837 | 60 ft (18 m) |
| San Pablo | 30,215 | 50 ft (15 m) |
| Tassajara | 26,723 | 713 ft (217 m) |
| Oakley | 25,619 | 18 ft (5 m) |
| Lafayette | 23,908 | 302 ft (92 m) |
| Brentwood | 23,302 | - |
| El Cerrito | 23,171 | 66 ft (20 m) |
| Bay Point | 21,534 | 87 ft (27 m) |
| Hercules | 19,488 | 60 ft (18 m) |
| Pinole | 19,039 | 21 ft (6 m) |
| Orinda | 17,599 | 500 ft (152 m) |
| Moraga | 16,290 | 490 ft (149 m) |
| Alamo | 15,626 | 280 ft (85 m) |
| El Sobrante | 12,260 | 160 ft (49 m) |
| Clayton | 10,762 | 394 ft (120 m) |
| Discovery Bay | 8,981 | 10 ft (3 m) |
| Rodeo | 8,717 | 20 ft (6 m) |
| Tara Hills | 5,332 | 90 ft (27 m) |
| Waldon | 5,133 | 88 ft (27 m) |
| Kensington | 4,936 | 600 ft (183 m) |
| Pacheco | 3,562 | - |
| East Richmond Heights | 3,357 | 390 ft (119 m) |
| Vine Hill | 3,260 | 23 ft (7 m) |
| Crockett | 3,194 | 118 ft (36 m) |
| Rollingwood | 2,900 | 75 ft (23 m) |
| Bethel Island | 2,312 | 5 ft (2 m) |
| Diablo | 988 | 560 ft (171 m) |
| Byron | 916 | 26 ft (8 m) |
| Knightsen | 861 | 25 ft (8 m) |
| Clyde | 694 | - |
| Port Costa | 232 | 17 ft (5 m) |