Cherryland, CA
- About the city
- Geography
- Climate and weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
- Museums and Cultural Attractions
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Cherryland is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Alameda County, California. Located between Ashland and Hayward, this primarily residential area was once part of vast cherry orchards, with a population of 15,808 as of the 2020 census.
About the city
Official status and administrative affiliation
- Official Name: Cherryland, California.
- Administrative Status: Cherryland is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP). This means it is a populated place without its own municipal government and is directly overseen by the Alameda County Board of Supervisors .
- Location: It is located in Alameda County, in the state of California, USA. Alameda County is a key part of the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area, known for its diverse cities, major tech and educational hubs (like Oakland and Berkeley), and its significant role in the region's history and economy.
Historical names and nicknames
Cherryland does not have widely known nicknames like a major metropolis. Historically, the area was simply part of the vast agricultural lands of San Lorenzo pioneer William Meek.
- Historical Context: The name "Cherryland" itself comes from a large residential subdivision of the Meek family's cherry orchards, initiated in 1911 . An older, alternative name for the area was Hayward North .
Date of foundation and age
- Year of Establishment: While the area was settled earlier with the Meek orchards, the community's identity as "Cherryland" began with the subdivision in 1911 .
- Age: As of 2026, the "Cherryland" name and subdivision are approximately 115 years old.
- Founder: The land originally belonged to William Meek, an early pioneer often called the "first farmer" of Alameda County. The subdivision was initiated by his third-generation heirs .
Geographical position and coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 37°40′46″N 122°06′12″W (approximately 37.6792, -122.1038 as provided) .
- Location: Cherryland is situated on the eastern shore of the San Francisco Bay, in the flatlands between the cities of Hayward to the south and Ashland and San Leandro to the north. San Lorenzo Creek runs along part of its northern border .
- Elevation: The center of the community is at an elevation of approximately 66 feet (20 meters) above sea level .
- Geographic Type: It is a suburban residential area within the greater urbanized zone of the East Bay.
City type and economic specialization
Cherryland is primarily a residential community within the San Francisco Bay Area. Its economy is intrinsically linked to the broader region.
- Residential Hub: The vast majority of its land is dedicated to housing, with a high percentage of residents commuting to jobs in nearby cities like Hayward, Oakland, and San Francisco .
- Local Economy: Employment within the community itself is centered on local services, retail trade, construction, and health care . Many residents work in the transportation and administrative support industries .
Population and demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the population was 15,808 . More recent estimates for 2023 place the population around 14,575 .
- Population Class: Cherryland is a small-to-medium sized community, classified as a census-designated place.
- Demographic Features: Cherryland is a diverse and predominantly Hispanic community. In 2023, 52.6% of the population identified as Hispanic. The largest ethnic group is Other (Hispanic), followed by White (Non-Hispanic) and Asian (Non-Hispanic) . A significant portion of the population (37.4% in 2023) was born outside the United States .
City's "business card" (briefly)
Cherryland is a quiet, residential enclave in the East Bay, offering a suburban base camp for exploring the greater Bay Area. Its name harks back to its agricultural roots as part of the vast cherry orchards of Alameda County's first farmer, and today it serves as a diverse and well-positioned community between the cities of Hayward and San Leandro.
Geography
Mountains and mountain ranges
Cherryland is located in the flatlands of the East Bay, so it does not have any mountains within its boundaries. However, the area offers distant views of the hills to the east.
- East Bay Hills: The hills that rise to the east of Cherryland, part of the Diablo Range, are a prominent regional feature. They offer numerous hiking and recreation opportunities in nearby parks, such as those in the city of Hayward. These hills form the eastern boundary of the San Francisco Bay's coastal plain.
Water bodies (rivers, lakes, waterfalls)
The main water feature associated with Cherryland is a local creek.
- San Lorenzo Creek (San Lorenzo Creek): This creek runs partly through the northern part of Cherryland and outlines most of its northern border . It flows westward towards the San Francisco Bay and is a key local drainage feature, though it is a small, seasonal creek .
Beaches and coasts
Cherryland itself is inland and does not have beaches. However, it is located just a few miles from the San Francisco Bay shoreline.
- Nearby Shoreline: The Hayward Regional Shoreline, located in the nearby city of Hayward, provides access to the bay's edge with walking and biking trails, fishing piers, and views of the bay and its wildlife, though it is a marshy shoreline rather than a swimming beach .
Climate and weather
Climate type and general characteristics
Cherryland has a warm-summer Mediterranean climate (Csb) according to the Köppen Climate Classification system . This region is characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Average temperatures by month
Summers are warm but not extremely hot, with the average high in the warmest months (July-September) around 75-76°F (24°C). Winters are mild and cool, with average highs in the mid-to-high 50s°F (14°C) and lows in the low 40s°F (5-7°C).
- Hottest month: September, with an average high of 76°F .
- Coldest month: January, with an average low of 41°F .
Precipitation and humidity
The vast majority of precipitation falls during the winter months. Summers are typically dry.
- Wettest months: December through February, with January and February averaging over 60mm of rain each .
Seasonality and the best time to visit
The best time to visit Cherryland for pleasant weather is during the late spring, summer, and early fall (June through October), when the days are warm, sunny, and rain is rare .
- Summer (June - August): Warm and dry with long, sunny days. Perfect for outdoor activities.
- Fall (September - November): Often features the warmest temperatures early on, with mild and pleasant conditions that can last into October.
- Winter (December - February): The rainy season. Expect cooler temperatures, cloudy skies, and the highest chance of precipitation. This is the least favorable time for outdoor exploration but fine for indoor activities .
- Spring (March - May): Characterized by gradually warming temperatures and decreasing rainfall. The landscape is often greenest during this time.
Landmarks
Historic mansion
Cherryland is home to a significant historic structure from its pioneer past.
- Meek Mansion (Meek Mansion): Located on Hampton Road in the northern part of Cherryland, this mansion is a testament to the area's agricultural history . It was the home of William Meek, a pioneering "first farmer" of Alameda County who owned the vast orchards that once covered the area. Today, the mansion is maintained by the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD) in conjunction with the Hayward Area Historical Society . It is a key local landmark and a connection to the region's 19th-century heritage.
Parks and recreation
Park services in Cherryland are provided by the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD) . While specific parks within Cherryland's small borders are not widely documented, residents and visitors have easy access to numerous parks and facilities in the adjacent city of Hayward.
- Hayward Japanese Gardens (Hayward Japanese Gardens): Located nearby in Hayward, these gardens are a popular attraction featuring a koi pond, a tea house, and beautiful strolling paths .
- San Lorenzo Creek Trail (San Lorenzo Creek Trail): This trail follows San Lorenzo Creek, which borders Cherryland, and offers a scenic path for hiking and biking through the local area .
- Hayward Regional Shoreline (Hayward Regional Shoreline): A large natural area on the bay, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, the bay bridge, and the surrounding hills. It's a prime spot for bird-watching, walking, and enjoying the bay breeze .
Transport
Main airports of the city and region
Cherryland does not have its own airport, but it is conveniently located near a major Bay Area airport.
- Oakland International Airport (Oakland International Airport - OAK): This is the closest major airport, located approximately 15 miles from Cherryland . It is a significant airport serving the Bay Area with numerous domestic and some international flights. Travelers can reach Cherryland via taxi, ride-sharing services, or by taking BART to the Coliseum station and then a connecting bus or taxi .
- Other nearby airports: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and San Jose International Airport (SJC) are also within driving distance (approximately 30-45 miles), offering a wider range of international flight options.
System of public transport (BART/bus)
Cherryland is well-connected to the regional public transportation network.
- Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART): The closest BART station is in neighboring Hayward. Visitors can take BART to the Hayward station and then take a local bus or taxi to reach Cherryland . BART provides direct access to Oakland, San Francisco, Berkeley, and other parts of the East Bay.
- Bus Service: AC Transit is the primary bus service provider for Alameda County, and its routes serve the Cherryland area, connecting it to Hayward, San Leandro, and other neighboring communities.
Major highways and roads
Cherryland is strategically located for car travel, with easy access to major regional freeways.
- Interstate 880 (I-880) (Nimitz Freeway): This major freeway runs just west of Cherryland and is the primary north-south route connecting the East Bay cities from San Jose to Oakland.
- Interstate 238 (I-238): A short but critical connector freeway that links I-880 to I-580 and I-680, providing routes towards the Central Valley, the Dublin/Pleasanton area, and the San Mateo Bridge.
- State Route 185 (Mission Boulevard): This surface street (Mission Blvd) runs directly through Cherryland and neighboring communities, serving as a major local thoroughfare.
Sport and Sports Legends
While Cherryland itself is a small, unincorporated area, it is home to a notable youth sports club that serves the local community and has a unique origin story.
Local Sports Clubs with a Community Focus
Sheriffs Fútbol Club (Sheriffs FC) is a competitive youth soccer club based in the Ashland, Cherryland, and San Lorenzo area . The club is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and serves talented and highly diverse youth players aged 7 to 18 .
The club has a distinctive history, having first started as a "FreeToPlay" program in 2017, sponsored by the Alameda County Sheriffs Office as a crime prevention initiative . Although the club lost its initial funding in December 2023, it has since rebounded and re-established itself, growing to 20 teams for players born from 2007 to 2018 . Sheriffs FC fields teams that play at elite levels, including MLSNext for U13 and U14, as well as in Norcal Premier NPL . The club's mission is to provide the same opportunities to local kids as those available elsewhere in the soccer world, including the chance to play in college or professionally, with a focus on development, creativity, and fun .
Sports and Recreation in the Nearby Area
For residents and visitors looking for recreational sports and family-friendly activities, destinations are just a short drive from Cherryland.
Golden Tee Golfland, located nearby, offers a range of activities perfect for a day of family fun . Visitors can enjoy a round of mini-golf on whimsical courses, test their driving skills on a go-kart track, or play classic and virtual reality games in the arcade .
For those who prefer outdoor activities in a natural setting, Garin Regional Park in Hayward is a short distance away . The park features over 4,000 acres of rolling hills with scenic trails for hiking, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the East Bay Hills .
Major League Sports in the East Bay
Cherryland is located in the East Bay, providing easy access to major professional sports in nearby Oakland. Key venues include:
- Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum: This venue has been the historic home for the Oakland Athletics (MLB) and the Oakland Raiders (NFL) .
- Oakland Arena: Located next to the Coliseum, this arena is a premier indoor venue that has hosted the Golden State Warriors (NBA) and numerous major concerts and events .
Universities and Educational Institutions
While there are no universities located directly within Cherryland's borders, its prime location in the East Bay places it near some of California's most prestigious institutions of higher education.
Major Research Universities Nearby
The most prominent university in the immediate area is the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) . Located in nearby Berkeley, this world-renowned public research university is a key attraction for visitors and a cornerstone of the region's intellectual life . Founded in 1868, UC Berkeley is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. It is particularly famous for its strengths in the sciences, engineering, and social sciences, and its faculty and alumni are associated with a vast number of Nobel Prizes and other prestigious awards. The campus itself is a destination, with iconic landmarks like Sather Tower (the Campanile) and the Hearst Greek Theatre. Its vibrant collegiate atmosphere is a draw for those visiting the area .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Cherryland benefits from its location within Alameda County, providing residents with access to a wide range of healthcare services and facilities in the surrounding cities.
Overview of Local Healthcare Access
Cherryland is situated in an area with substantial healthcare infrastructure. Data indicates there are approximately 226 physicians per 100,000 population in Cherryland, which is slightly higher than the U.S. average of 210 . The area's Health Cost Index is 97.6, where a lower score is better, compared to the U.S. average of 100 . This suggests that healthcare costs are marginally more affordable than the national norm.
Community health data from 2021-2022 showed that 9.9% of children and teens in Cherryland reported a delay or difficulty in obtaining needed medical care . For residents seeking to navigate health insurance, particularly for seniors, local licensed agents are available to assist with Medicare plan comparisons and enrollment, with a variety of Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans accessible in the 94541 zip code area .
Major Medical Facilities in Neighboring Cities
Residents of Cherryland have access to several hospitals and medical centers in the neighboring cities of Hayward and San Leandro. These institutions provide comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialized treatment programs. While the search results do not specify the names of these facilities, the broader healthcare landscape of the East Bay includes numerous well-regarded hospitals and medical networks. The Hayward Area Recreation & Park District, for example, is a community resource, though not a healthcare provider, indicating the presence of community-focused public services in the immediate vicinity .
Museums and Cultural Attractions
Cherryland itself does not have major museums, but its central East Bay location offers easy access to a diverse array of cultural and historical attractions in neighboring cities.
Cultural Hubs in Hayward and Beyond
Downtown Hayward serves as a nearby cultural center, just a short drive from Cherryland . This vibrant downtown area is home to local art galleries and hosts community events. Visitors can explore the creative spirit of the community by strolling down Main Street, discovering local artwork in various galleries, and browsing unique treasures in antique shops . The Sun Gallery in Hayward is a notable local art space focused on community art and education, demonstrating the area's commitment to fostering creativity .
For those interested in natural history and science, the Crab Cove Visitor Center in Alameda offers interactive exhibits and an 800-gallon aquarium displaying San Francisco Bay creatures, making it a great destination for families .
Museums in Oakland and Berkeley
A short trip from Cherryland opens up even more cultural opportunities. In Oakland, the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is a must-visit, telling the story of California through its art, history, and natural sciences. The area also features unique spots like the Pacific Pinball Museum in Alameda .
In Berkeley, the University of California, Berkeley, offers several museums, including the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA) , which showcases contemporary art and classic and avant-garde cinema . For those with a taste for the unusual, The Bone Room in Berkeley is a bizarre natural history store that sells items like fossils, dried reptiles, and mounted specimens, functioning almost as a private museum of natural curiosities .
Historical and Natural Sites
Garin Regional Park in Hayward is not only a place for outdoor recreation but also a site of historical interest. The Garin Barn Visitor Center, a historic barn dating back to the 19th century, offers exhibits and a fascinating glimpse into the region's agricultural past . For a more immersive nature experience, the Hayward Area Recreation & Park District provides access to various parks and nature centers, including the Crab Cove Visitor Center . Other nearby natural areas with educational components include the Tilden Nature Environmental area in Kensington and the Lucy Evans Baylands Nature Interpretive Center in Palo Alto, though further afield .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Cherryland is a diverse, unincorporated area in the East Bay, and its culinary identity is intrinsically linked to the vibrant and multicultural food scenes of its immediate neighbors, particularly Hayward and San Leandro. While Cherryland itself is primarily residential, its residents and visitors enjoy a rich tapestry of dining options just minutes away.
A Foodie Destination in Downtown Hayward
For a concentrated and diverse culinary experience, Downtown Hayward is the primary destination for residents of Cherryland . This vibrant downtown area is a true foodie's paradise, offering a wide array of restaurants and eateries that cater to every palate. The culinary landscape here is defined by its diversity, reflecting the multicultural community of the East Bay. Visitors can find everything from trendy cafes serving artisanal coffee to family-owned restaurants dishing up authentic international cuisines .
The dining scene in Downtown Hayward is not just about the food; it's about the experience. After a meal, a stroll down Main Street reveals local boutiques and a strong community spirit, especially on Saturday mornings when the Hayward Farmers Market takes over . This market is a hub for fresh, local produce and handmade goods, offering a true taste of the region's agricultural bounty.
Exploring the Broader East Bay Food Scene
Beyond Downtown Hayward, Cherryland's location provides easy access to the culinary riches of the entire East Bay. Nearby cities like Oakland and Berkeley are internationally recognized for their innovative and diverse food scenes.
- Jack London Square in Oakland is a major waterfront dining destination. With a 4.5-star rating from nearly 400 reviews, it's a popular spot to enjoy a meal with a view, offering a variety of restaurants and a lively atmosphere .
- The area is also home to numerous unique dining concepts, from trendy fusion spots to long-standing institutions serving classic American fare. This variety ensures that whether you are looking for a quick bite or a high-end gastronomic experience, something is just a short drive away .
A Taste of Local History
The very name "Cherryland" hints at the area's agricultural roots. The community got its name from the cherry orchards that once flourished here . While these orchards have largely given way to residential development, this historical tidbit connects the modern-day community to a legacy of local food production, a spirit that lives on in the farmers markets and farm-to-table restaurants throughout the East Bay.