Living in Contra Costa County

Amanda Abillano
  • 5.0 (1)
  • News

Living in Contra Costa County is your go-to podcast for everything you need to know about life in the East Bay. From real estate insights and local market trends to community highlights, hidden gems, and lifestyle tips, this podcast helps you stay informed and connected. Whether you're thinking about moving, investing, or just want to explore more of what Contra Costa County has to offer, tune in and discover what makes this area such a great place to live.

Episodes

  1. 6d ago

    Contra Costa County News Roundup: Data Centers, a Denied Bar & a November Tax Fight

    I'm back after a week off, and Contra Costa County did not slow down for one second. I'm Amanda Abillano, your local real estate agent, walking you through everything you missed this week from Richmond to Discovery Bay. On this episode: Oakley Summer Fest and the Pinole Car Show Pancake Breakfast hit this weekend, plus the Port Chicago Weekend returns July 17-19. We get into the AI Data Center Moratorium Act and what it means for your utility bills and property values, why Vinnie's got a 5-0 no from the Brentwood Planning Commission, the new Contra Costa Regional Fire Communications Center now answering 250,000-plus calls a year, and the Howard Jarvis tax measure headed to your November ballot. Local news with jokes and zero homework required. New episodes weekly. 📍 Thinking about buying or selling in Contra Costa County? That's literally my day job. Reach out. Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    19 min

  2. Jun 9

    Pittsburg Data Center, Pinole Mayor Vote & Summer Events 2026

    Real estate agent and host Amanda Abillano breaks down what is actually happening in Contra Costa County this week. In Episode 11, we cover Pittsburg's first major data center on the old Delta View Golf Course and what its power and water use could mean for nearby homeowners, why Pinole voters rejected directly electing their mayor, family-friendly Pride Month events across the county, and two can't-miss summer events: the Old Town Pittsburg Car Show and the Mrs. Roper Romp bar crawl in Brentwood. Whether you live in Antioch, Pittsburg, Brentwood, Concord, Pinole, or anywhere in the East Bay, this is your local guide to the events, development, and decisions shaping where we live. Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    33 min

  3. Jun 4

    Juneteenth, Concord Pride, $250 Underwater SF Land & an Orinda Spelling Bee Star | Ep. 10

    What's happening in Contra Costa County this week? Episode 10 covers the Pleasant Hill Juneteenth celebration (June 5) and Concord Pride in the Plaza (June 6), the wild story of three underwater San Francisco lots that sold for under $250, an Orinda 7th grader headed to the national spelling bee, and Concord's new $1.5 million homeless outreach plan. Local news, real estate, and Bay Area life, with a sense of humor. Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    12 min

  4. May 27

    Living in Contra Costa County – Ep. 9: Oakley Bans AI Data Centers, Bay Area Transit Tax, 2026 Graduates & Summer Events

    In Episode 9 of Living in Contra Costa County, we cover everything you need to know about what's happening in Contra Costa County right now. This week: Oakley becomes the first city in the Bay Area to extend an AI data center ban — we break down what it means for residents and property owners. We also cover the Connect Bay Area Act, the half-cent transit sales tax headed to the November 2026 ballot that could affect every commuter in the county. We shout out the Class of 2026 — from Diablo Valley College and Contra Costa College to high school seniors across Antioch, Concord, Walnut Creek, Brentwood, and beyond. Plus, we highlight two must-attend summer events: the Pleasant Hill Night Market and the Walnut Creek Art and Wine Festival. Have a new business in Contra Costa County? Email us at livingincontracostacounty@Gmail.com to be featured. Thinking about buying or selling a home in Contra Costa County? We can help. Reach out today. Subscribe for weekly local news, real estate tips, and community updates from Contra Costa County, California. Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    14 min

  5. May 22

    What's Happening in Contra Costa County This Week | KidFest, Navy Land Deal, Home Kitchens & More

    What's happening in Contra Costa County this week? Episode 8 of Living in Contra Costa County covers local events, real estate, small business, schools, and local government news across the East Bay — including Concord, San Ramon, Pittsburg, Richmond, San Pablo, Brentwood, Walnut Creek, Antioch, and beyond. This week: Bay Area KidFest returns to the Toyota Pavilion at Concord for its 35th year over Memorial Day Weekend — May 24th and 25th — with rides, character meet-and-greets, Python Ron's Reptile Kingdom, a BMX stunt team, and a special Memorial Day ceremony. The San Ramon Art and Wind Festival is back at Central Park on May 24th and 25th with professional kite flying, three entertainment stages, fine arts, crafts, and food. In Concord, the City Council is set to vote on the Navy Term Sheet for the former Naval Weapons Station Reuse Project — a 30-year, $628 million redevelopment of 2,422 acres into 12,272 homes, commercial space, and parks. Contra Costa County made Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations permanent, allowing residents to earn up to $100,000 a year selling food from their home kitchens — and the county is now ranked 5th in California for home kitchen permits. Volunteers hit Point Pinole Regional Shoreline to pull invasive plants and protect the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse as part of East Bay Regional Park District's Earth Day effort. And the City of San Pablo is hosting community budget meetings after projecting a $2 million structural deficit driven by flattening casino revenues and rising costs. If you live in Concord, San Ramon, San Pablo, Pittsburg, Richmond, Walnut Creek, Antioch, Brentwood, Oakley, Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Clayton, Danville, El Cerrito, or anywhere in Contra Costa County — this episode is for you. 🎙️ Subscribe to Living in Contra Costa County for weekly local news, events, real estate, small business spotlights, and government updates across the East Bay. Topics Covered: Bay Area KidFest Concord 2026 | San Ramon Art and Wind Festival 2026 | Concord Naval Weapons Station reuse project | Contra Costa County home kitchen permit MEHKO | Point Pinole invasive plants volunteers Earth Day | San Pablo budget deficit 2026 | things to do in Contra Costa County Memorial Day weekend | Contra Costa County news | East Bay local news | living in Contra Costa County Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    22 min

  6. May 14

    Walnut Creek Senior Housing Breaks Records + El Cerrito Drops Flock Cameras | Contra Costa County News Ep. 7

    Episode 7 of Living in Contra Costa County covers everything happening in the East Bay this week — from community events and local business to real estate, schools, and local government. This week:  The Pleasant Hill Art, Wine & Music Festival returns May 16–17 with free admission, 13 live acts, and a beer from the world's oldest brewery. Bay Area KidFest hits Concord Pavilion for its 35th year over Memorial Day Weekend with Python Ron, Super Mario, and a family dance party. In Walnut Creek, a senior housing initiative collected 7,200 signatures in just 25 days — the fastest in city history — putting 200+ senior housing units near BART on the November 2026 ballot. We spotlight Clayton Valley Farms in Clayton, the family-run farm where Farmer Mike is growing fresh produce, pressing juice, and hosting alpacas. San Ramon launches its new Third Thursday Arts & Eats series starting May 15th at Dougherty Station. And El Cerrito becomes the first city in Contra Costa County to drop its Flock Safety contract after federal agencies accessed local license plate data without authorization. If you live in Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Concord, San Ramon, Clayton, El Cerrito, or anywhere in Contra Costa County — this episode is for you. Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    25 min

  7. May 7

    Cherry Picking, Home Buyer Grants, Teachers of the Year & Affordable Housing

    It's a jam-packed episode and we're diving deep into everything that makes Contra Costa County such a special place to call home! 🍒 We're kicking things off with the sweetest topic of the season — Brentwood's beloved cherry u-pick farms and why this local tradition keeps families coming back year after year. Then, we break down Concord's exciting First-Time Home Buyer Grant and what it could mean for those dreaming of owning a home in the Bay Area. We're also shining a well-deserved spotlight on Contra Costa's incredible Teachers of the Year — the educators making a lasting difference in our kids' lives. Plus, we tackle the big conversations around affordable housing in Lafayette and what's being done to make our communities more inclusive and accessible. And that's just scratching the surface — there's so much more packed into this episode! Whether you're a longtime resident or thinking about planting roots here, this is the episode for you. Tune in and let's talk Contra Costa! 🎧 Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    23 min

  8. Apr 29

    Antioch Fireworks & The Grove | Measure J & K, Walnut Creek Entertainment Zone + Local Events | Ep. 5

    In Episode 5 of Living in Contra Costa County, we're covering everything happening across the county right now — from summer celebrations to new development, ballot measures, and a brand-new entertainment destination. First, we talk Antioch fireworks — the city council has officially decided to keep the fireworks event this year, so the tradition continues for the community! Next, we take a look at The Grove, the exciting new commercial development coming to the area. We break down what's moving in, what it means for the local economy, and when you can expect it to open. We also run through some of the best upcoming local events across Contra Costa County so you don't miss a thing this season. Then, we dive into Measure J and Measure K in Oakley — two important measures on the ballot. We break down what each one proposes, who supports them, and what a yes or no vote could mean for Oakley residents. Finally, we talk about the new entertainment zone in Walnut Creek, what businesses are part of it, and how it's reshaping nightlife and dining in one of the county's most vibrant cities. Whether you're a longtime local or new to the area, this episode has everything you need to stay informed and connected to your community. 🎙️ Subscribe, leave a review, and share with your neighbors! #ContraCosta #Antioch #Oakley #WalnutCreek #TheGrove #MeasureJ #MeasureK #LocalNews #BayAreaPodcast #ContraCostaCounty Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    51 min

  9. Apr 21

    Ep 4: San Francisco AI Companies, Antioch Deficit, Walnut Creek Entertainment Zone

    Are you a Contra Costa County resident trying to stay informed about what's happening in your backyard? In this episode of Living in Contra Costa County, we cover the biggest local news and community events impacting Antioch, Concord, and Walnut Creek residents right now. We break down how AI is changing the real estate market in Contra Costa County — what buyers, sellers, and investors need to know. Next, we highlight the Concord Music and Market Event, one of the Bay Area's most exciting community gatherings featuring live music and local vendors. Then, we discuss the Antioch budget cuts and how reduced city funding could affect schools, public safety, and essential services for Antioch residents. Finally, we explore the new Walnut Creek Entertainment Zone — what it means for dining, nightlife, and economic growth in downtown Walnut Creek. Topics covered: AI and real estate in Contra Costa CountyConcord Music and Market EventAntioch city budget cuts and community impactWalnut Creek Entertainment Zone🎙️ Living in Contra Costa County is your go-to podcast for local news, community events, and everything happening in the East Bay. Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for new episodes every week. Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    33 min

  10. Apr 16

    Ep 3: Antioch Housing, Walnut Creek Development, Refinery Bills

    Stay up to date with the latest news and developments in Contra Costa County and the East Bay Area. In this episode, we cover:  New low-income housing proposals in Antioch  The latest on Walnut Creek’s Mitchell Townhomes project  California bills addressing oil refinery closures, cleanup, and job impacts  El Cerrito’s support for the LGBTQ+ community  Upcoming local events including the Clayton Art and Wine Festival Whether you’re a local resident, homebuyer, or just exploring Northern California living, this episode breaks down what these changes mean for the community and the housing market. 📍 Serving Contra Costa County & the East Bay  🎥 Subscribe for weekly local updates, real estate insights, and community highlights Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    14 min

  11. Apr 16

    Episode 2: Measure B, Blackhawk Plaza & Oil Drilling in the Bay Area | East Bay News

    In Episode 2, we’re breaking down some of the most talked-about topics shaping Contra Costa County and the East Bay. From local ballot measures to luxury development and environmental concerns, this episode gives you a clear, real-world understanding of what’s happening in your community. We start with Measure B, explaining what it is, why it matters, and how it could impact housing, infrastructure, and residents across Contra Costa County. If you’ve been hearing about it but don’t fully understand it, we make it simple. Next, we explore Blackhawk Plaza, one of the East Bay’s most well-known upscale destinations. We talk about its growth, its role in the community, and what it represents for lifestyle and development in the Bay Area. We also dive into the ongoing conversation around oil drilling in the Bay Area. From economic benefits to environmental concerns, we discuss how this issue affects local communities and what the future could look like. Whether you live in Antioch, Brentwood, Concord, or anywhere in the East Bay—or you’re thinking about moving here—this episode will keep you informed and ahead of what’s happening locally. 🎙️ In This Episode:  Measure B explained (Contra Costa County ballot measure)  Blackhawk Plaza and East Bay development  Oil drilling in the Bay Area: impacts and concerns  Real estate trends and community insights in Contra Costa CountyStay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    13 min

  12. Apr 4

    Our First Episode | Real Estate Interest Rates | New County Office in Brentwood

    Welcome to the very first episode of the podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, we explore the latest real estate news impacting the East Bay and Contra Costa County, with a special focus on new development in Brentwood, California. I share updates on today’s housing market, what buyers and sellers should be watching, and how these changes could affect your next move. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, investor, or simply curious about the local market, this episode offers clear and practical insights. We also discuss the new county building coming to Brentwood, CA. Learn what this project includes, why it matters for the community, and how it may influence property values, economic growth, and future development in the area. If you are interested in living in Contra Costa County, keeping up with Brentwood real estate trends, or understanding how local projects impact home values, this podcast is for you. Subscribe for weekly updates on: East Bay real estate market trendsNew construction and local developmentTips for buyers, sellers, and investorsThank you for tuning in and supporting episode one! #BrentwoodCA #ContraCostaCounty #RealEstatePodcast #EastBayRealEstate #CaliforniaRealEstate #HousingMarket #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealEstateNews Stay connected with us for more real estate updates, community insights, and everything you need to know about living in Contra Costa County. 🌐 Website: LivinginContraCostaCounty.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/livingincontracostacounty Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with anyone looking to make a move or stay informed about the East Bay!

    5 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Living in Contra Costa County is your go-to podcast for everything you need to know about life in the East Bay. From real estate insights and local market trends to community highlights, hidden gems, and lifestyle tips, this podcast helps you stay informed and connected. Whether you're thinking about moving, investing, or just want to explore more of what Contra Costa County has to offer, tune in and discover what makes this area such a great place to live.

Information

  • Creator
    Amanda Abillano
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Living in Contra Costa County
  • Show Website
    Living in Contra Costa County