Albany is a small town right next to North Berkeley sharing a major shopping area on Solano Avenue with its neighbor. Known best for its good schools, Albany is a favorite for families with children. A small town ambiance, friendly atmostphere, and progressive thinking make this a great place to live. Home prices here tend to be a little higher predominantly due to the schools and square footage, strangely enough, a bit smaller. Albany is the home of one of the worlds largest racetracks, Golden Gate Fields and has some wonderful park land along the bay.