Brentwood, CA vs Antioch, CA – Complete City Comparison Guide 2025
Deciding where to live in the East Bay can be a challenge, especially when choosing between two promising suburban cities like Brentwood and Antioch. Both offer unique benefits for families, professionals, and investors considering relocation or property purchase in Contra Costa County. This detailed comparison helps you weigh vital factors like housing, schools, commute, lifestyle, and more, so you can confidently pick the best fit for your needs in 2025.
Overview of Brentwood and Antioch
Location and Distance from Bay Area
Brentwood and Antioch are both located in Contra Costa County, part of the greater East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. Brentwood sits about 42 miles east of San Francisco, while Antioch is slightly closer at roughly 35 miles from downtown SF. Both function as commuter suburbs with convenient access to major highways like Highway 4 and Interstate 680, connecting residents to Bay Area job hubs such as Oakland, Walnut Creek, and San Jose.
While Antioch provides easier access to BART trains, Brentwood remains popular for those valuing a quieter, more rural feel within reach of urban centers. These cities serve as attractive alternatives for those seeking suburban living outside the core Bay Area, balancing proximity and affordability.
Population and Demographics
- Brentwood: Approximately 65,000 residents, predominantly young families and professionals. The city has experienced rapid growth due to new housing developments and strong community planning initiatives.
- Antioch: Larger population near 110,000, marked by diverse ethnic backgrounds and a mix of long-time locals and newcomers.
Median household income tends to be higher in Brentwood compared to Antioch, reflecting differing economic profiles. Brentwood's demographics skew younger with many families attracted by its suburban charm, while Antioch offers a broader age distribution with a mix of blue-collar and white-collar workers.
Cost of Living Comparison
Housing Market (Home Prices & Rent)
The housing landscape is one of the most critical aspects for anyone considering moving to Brentwood or Antioch:
- Brentwood's median home price hovers around $750,000, influenced by newer single-family homes, townhouses, and planned communities. The city’s real estate market has seen steady appreciation fueled by high demand and suburban expansion.
- Antioch offers more affordable housing options, with median prices near $550,000. The rental market is also more budget-friendly, with average rents approximately 15-20% lower than Brentwood’s. Housing styles in Antioch range from older ranch-style houses to new builds.
Developers in Brentwood emphasize master-planned, family-oriented neighborhoods with modern amenities, whereas Antioch’s growth includes revitalization efforts in older neighborhoods alongside new residential projects.
Property Taxes and Utilities
Property tax rates in both cities align closely with Contra Costa County averages, typically ranging from 1.1% to 1.3% hoa attorneys Springtown, CA of assessed value. Brentwood’s somewhat higher home prices translate to higher overall property tax bills. Utility costs (water, electricity, gas) tend to be comparable between the two, though seasonal fluctuations and individual usage influence final bills.
Employment and Economy
Job Market and Local Economy
Brentwood and Antioch differ in their local economies and employment opportunities:
- Brentwood features a growing economy centered on retail, healthcare, education, and agriculture. The city benefits from recent commercial developments and proximity to job centers in the Tri-Valley area.
- Antioch maintains a more industrial and manufacturing presence, alongside retail and public sector jobs. Its closer connection to transportation corridors attracts logistics firms and warehouse operations.
Both cities serve primarily as bedroom communities, with many residents commuting to larger Bay Area employment hubs. Unemployment rates in Brentwood tend to be slightly lower, reflecting its expanding business base and higher median incomes.
Median Income and Economic Growth
Household incomes in Brentwood exceed Antioch’s averages, with Brentwood near $98,000 annually compared to Antioch’s $75,000. Brentwood’s economy is benefiting from sustained residential growth and commercial investment, while Antioch’s development focuses on infrastructure upgrades and community revitalization projects to stimulate long-term prosperity.
Schools and Education
School District Quality and Ratings
Education quality is a paramount factor for families relocating to either Brentwood or Antioch.
- Brentwood Union School District and Liberty Union High School District serve most Brentwood students, boasting solid academic performance, higher test scores, and active parent involvement.
- Antioch Unified School District covers Antioch, with several schools achieving respectable ratings but also facing challenges typical of larger, more diverse districts.
Top-rated schools in Brentwood include Marsh Creek Sixth Grade Academy and Edna Hill Middle School, while Antioch hosts notable institutions like Deer Valley High School and Riverview Middle School. Overall, Brentwood's schools are often rated slightly higher, making it appealing for families prioritizing education.
Higher Education and Adult Learning Options
Both cities are within driving distance to prominent community colleges and universities:
- Los Medanos College serves Antioch area students with affordable higher education opportunities.
- Brentwood residents commonly attend Diablo Valley College or Las Positas College in nearby cities.
Adult learning centers and vocational training programs are also accessible across Contra Costa County.
Safety and Crime Rates
Brentwood is generally regarded as safer compared to Antioch, with significantly lower crime rates in terms of violent crime and property crime statistics. Antioch struggles with pockets of higher crime but has initiated neighborhood watch programs and community policing to improve safety. For families seeking peace of mind, Brentwood’s reputation for safety is a distinct advantage.
Transportation and Commute
Public Transit Availability
- Antioch benefits from direct BART access via its Antioch station, providing a convenient rail connection to San Francisco and other East Bay cities.
- Brentwood currently lacks direct BART service, relying mostly on bus connections and car travel; however, BART expansion plans aim to extend service toward Brentwood in the future.
Bus routes in both cities provide regional transit options but are limited compared to more urban areas.
Traffic and Typical Commute Times
Traffic congestion during peak hours affects both cities, especially on Highway 4 and Interstate 680 corridors. Commute times to San Francisco average between 45 minutes and 90 minutes depending on traffic and destination. Antioch commuters often enjoy shorter transit rides due to BART access, whereas Brentwood drivers rely heavily on car commutes, which may extend travel time.
Climate and Environment
Weather Patterns and Air Quality
Both Brentwood and Antioch experience Mediterranean climates characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Brentwood’s proximity to agricultural lands contributes to slightly better air quality, while Antioch’s industrial zones sometimes report moderate pollution levels. Both cities face summer wildfire smoke challenges common in the Bay Area.
Open Space, Parks, and Outdoor Activities
- Brentwood is renowned for its vineyards, farmers markets, and scenic Delta waterways, offering numerous parks, hiking trails, and family-friendly outdoor spaces.
- Antioch boasts extensive riverfront parks along the San Joaquin River, with boating, fishing, and sports facilities.
Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate Brentwood’s agricultural heritage and Antioch’s robust access to Delta recreation.
Lifestyle and Community
Things to Do – Entertainment, Restaurants, Nightlife
Brentwood offers a quieter dining scene focused on farm-to-table restaurants, wine tasting rooms, and seasonal events like the Summer Concert Series. Antioch provides a broader nightlife and entertainment spectrum, including bars, music venues, and cultural festivals reflecting its diverse community.
Shopping and Services
Both cities feature convenient shopping centers, grocery stores, and essential services. Brentwood leans toward boutique shops and specialty stores supporting its suburban lifestyle, while Antioch hosts larger retail outlets and medical facilities catering to a broader population.
Family-Friendly Amenities and Walkability
Brentwood scores higher on walkability and organized community activities, such as youth sports leagues, farmers markets, and public library programs. Antioch offers numerous parks and community centers but has lower walkability scores, requiring more reliance on driving.
Summary Comparison Table
Conclusion – Which City Is Best for You?
Choosing between Brentwood, CA and Antioch, CA depends on your priorities. If you seek a safer, more family-focused community with high-performing schools, beautiful open spaces, and don’t mind longer car commutes or higher housing costs, Brentwood stands out. Alternatively, if affordability, BART access, and a vibrant, diverse community are more important, Antioch could be the ideal choice.
Evaluate your budget, commute needs, lifestyle preferences, and educational priorities carefully. Both cities offer growing opportunities in Contra Costa County and strong ties to Bay Area living, making them excellent contenders for your next home or investment.
FAQ – Brentwood vs Antioch
What are the main differences between Brentwood and Antioch?
Brentwood is smaller, safer, with better schools and higher home prices; Antioch is larger, more affordable, and has BART access but higher crime rates.
Which city is more affordable?
Antioch offers more affordable housing and rental options compared to Brentwood.
Which city has better schools?
Brentwood’s schools generally have higher ratings and better academic performance.
How do commute times compare?
Antioch benefits from BART, resulting in shorter public transit commute times, while Brentwood relies heavily on car travel.
Are these cities safe for families?
Brentwood is considered safer overall, but Antioch has neighborhoods improving steadily through community policing.
What recreational activities are unique to each city?
Brentwood features vineyards and agricultural events; Antioch offers extensive Delta riverfront parks and boating.
Are Brentwood or Antioch recommended for retirees or young professionals?
Retirees may prefer Brentwood for its tranquility and safety; young professionals might lean toward Antioch for affordability and transit access.