San Pablo is an affordable, diverse East Bay city with a relaxed, walkable feel, a growing craft‑beer and dining scene, and quick access to regional parks—an inviting, low‑stress base that’s comfortable for multi‑week assignments.
Big‑city options are close by: Oakland and Berkeley’s lively arts and food scenes and San Francisco’s museums, theaters and nightlife are all roughly 20–45 minutes away by car or public transit, so you’ll have plenty to do outside of work.