Albany, California

With a population of around 18,000 and more than 350,000 living within a 15-mile radius, Albany today combines a small-town ambience with its central location in a major metropolitan area. Albany prides itself on being a safe, community-oriented city, with strong services and programs for youth, families and the elderly.

Within Albany itself, Golden Gate Fields, one of the largest thoroughbred racetracks in the United States, draws its participants from throughout the entire Bay Area. Throughout Albany, but especially on Solano Avenue, there are sidewalk cafes, as well as numerous full-dining establishments that offer everything from simple fare to a variety of international dishes.