With over 400,000 residents, Oakland is one of the largest cities in California. With a history of resilience and a culture that pulses with creativity, Oakland stands tall as a beacon of opportunity. Home to a thriving community, it’s no wonder that businesses partnering with an Oakland advertising agency such as AdvertiseMint can unlock the potential to amplify their narrative, capturing the hearts of their audience at precisely the right moment and in the right way.
Best ways to advertise in Oakland
Oakland is a vibrant city, and your business will need a marketing strategy to break through the noise. Oakland residents are bombarded with daily social media ads, search ads, billboards, TV ads, and radio ads. It’s essential that your advertising dollars are being spent efficiently. Here are some of the most popular Oakland advertising options for businesses.
Oakland Paid Social Advertising
Paid social allows Oakland businesses to reach consumers directly in their area. This is done by geo-targeted ads targeting a specific zip code or a one-mile radius around a single point. Advertisers can also target aspects like interests, behaviors, or custom audiences of their customers, prospects, or visitors. You can learn more about each of the following types of advertising below:
- Facebook Ads
- Instagram Ads
- TikTok Ads
- Snapchat Ads
- LinkedIn Ads
- YouTube Ads
- Pinterest Ads
- Twitter / X Ads
Oakland Paid Search Advertising
Paid search allows Oakland businesses to reach consumers searching for their products or services on Google or Bing within a specific geographic area. These ads allow your business to appear on top of Google searches or Google Maps. This ensures customers find your business first before they find your competitors.
Oakland Local Advertising
There are countless options for reaching consumers located in the Oakland area. Each advertising option brings opportunities, challenges, and the need to monitor for a positive return on ad spend for the business. If you want to help to grow your business with local Oakland ads, please contact Advertisemint. You can learn more about local Oakland advertising options here:
- Yelp Ads
- Nextdoor Ads
- iHeartRadio Ads
- Spotify Ads
- Pandora Ads
- Local Cable Ads
- Billboard Advertising
- Oakland Metro Advertising
- Direct Mail
“Oakland is a city of grit and soul.” – Maya Angelou, poet and civil rights activist.
How to Advertise with Oakland Sport Teams?
Sports in Oakland resonate deeply with its residents, fostering community spirit and local pride. From basketball to baseball, Oakland offers a variety of opportunities for businesses to tap into a passionate audience and promote their brand. If you’re interested in advertising opportunities with Oakland’s sports entities, consider reaching out to Advertisemint for further insights into tailoring your campaigns with teams like the Oakland Athletics, Golden State Warriors, and Oakland Roots SC.
- Oakland Athletics (MLB)- The Oakland Athletics, affectionately known as the A’s, have a rich baseball legacy. Their focus on innovation and analytics has led to both success on the field and a unique approach to the game. The team has won several World Series titles, with the latest being in 1989.
Athletics on Instagram | Athletics on Youtube | Athletics on TikTok - Oakland Roots SC (USL Championship) – A relatively new addition to Oakland’s sports scene, Oakland Roots SC brings the excitement of soccer to the community. The team’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement resonates deeply with fans, making them a rising force in the soccer world. Roots SC on Instagram | Roots SC on YouTube | Roots SC on TikTok
How to Advertise to Oakland Universities, Colleges & Schools?
If your business has customers between 13 and 30, you should look at advertising options for Oakland students. This youth-focused segment is rapidly changing regarding which social media platforms they use, how they access information, and the technology they utilize daily. Generally, a mobile-first demo, reaching a demo requires a fluid strategy with both content and ads that resonate with the audience. If you want to advertise to students in the Oakland area, please contact Advertisemint to discuss the best advertising and marketing options for higher education. The following are some of the most popular schools in Oakland:
Oakland Universities
- Oakland University of California (UCR) – UCR is a public university established in 1957, situated in the Rockridge area of Oakland. The institution provides undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines and is widely recognized for its emphasis on research and dedication to diversity. Some of its notable alumni include actor and comedian Margaret Cho and basketball player Baron Davis.
UCR on Instagram | UCR on YouTube | UCR on TikTok - Samuel Merritt University (SMU) – Founded in 1912, SMU is a private university located in Oakland’s Lake Merritt neighborhood. It offers undergraduate and graduate nursing, health sciences, and business programs.
SMU on Instagram | SMU on YouTube | SMU on TikTok - Patten University -Patten University is committed to offering convenient and inclusive education that helps students reach their academic and professional aspirations. The university prioritizes online and adaptable learning opportunities, making it accessible to a wide array of students, including those who work and adult learners.
Oakland Colleges
- Mills College – Mills College is a women’s liberal arts institution known for its commitment to empowering women through education. The college offers a range of programs that promote leadership, creativity, and social justice.
Mills College on Instagram | Mills College on YouTube - Laney College – Laney College is a vibrant community college renowned for its dedication to delivering accessible education and career programs. With a varied student population and an extensive selection of academic courses, Laney College enables students to realize their educational objectives and create meaningful impacts in their communities.
Laney College on Instagram | Laney College on YouTube - Merritt College -Merritt College has a rich history of providing excellent education and vocational training to its students. It is well-known for its robust programs in healthcare, technology, and trades, which prepare students with the necessary skills and knowledge for prosperous careers.
Merritt College on Instagram | Merritt College on YouTube |
Oakland High Schools
- Oakland Technical High School (Oakland Tech) – Oakland Technical High School is a renowned institution known for its strong academic programs and diverse extracurricular offerings. Oakland Tech offers STEAM programs to help students excel in diverse fields.
Oakland Tech on Instagram - Skyline High School – Skyline High School offers a comprehensive educational experience, emphasizing both academic achievement and personal growth. With a variety of academic pathways and an array of clubs and activities, Skyline High School fosters a well-rounded learning environment.
Skyline High School on Instagram - Oakland School for the Arts (OSA) – OSA is a unique institution that merges academic excellence with a strong focus on the arts. Students at OSA receive a comprehensive education while honing their skills in various artistic disciplines, including dance, visual arts, and theater. The school’s vibrant artistic community and commitment to nurturing creativity set it apart as a hub for young artists.
OSA on Instagram | OSA on Youtube
How to advertise on Oakland metro and public transportation?
Oakland residents are well-acquainted with an extensive network of transportation options in the East Bay. From extensive bus routes, bike paths, and ride-sharing opportunities to BART, Oakland’s transportation system offers many opportunities to reach diverse commuters. According to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, Oakland sees a significant number of daily boardings on public transit. This makes Oakland’s transportation network a potential goldmine for marketers targeting specific demographics, locations, and more. If you are exploring the avenues of Oakland bus advertising, Oakland taxi advertising, Oakland rideshare advertising, or any other transportation advertising opportunities in the city, our team at AdvertiseMint is here to assist. Let’s discuss a strategic advertising approach that optimally utilizes Oakland’s transit system to expand your business’s reach.
How to advertise on the radio in Oakland?
“Oakland City boasts a dynamic radio landscape, with stations like KBLX, KMEL, KQED, and KALW resonating with the local community through a mix of music, talk shows, and informative broadcasts. The diverse programming caters to listeners’ preferences during their daily routines, making radio an effective avenue for advertisers to engage with Oakland’s residents. Radio advertising in Oakland offers a chance to connect on a personal level, reaching people during their commutes or downtime. The options extend beyond traditional radio, with digital platforms such as Pandora and iHeartRadio allowing for precise targeting based on demographics, interests, and locations. Whether you’re considering Oakland FM radio advertising, streaming platform ads, or a combination of both, the experienced team at AdvertiseMint is prepared to collaborate, ensuring your radio campaigns resonate and drive meaningful results for your business.
How much does billboard advertising cost in Oakland?
Whether you are driving down Interstate 880, Interstate 580, or one of the other major highways in Oakland, you will surely see billboards. Various companies, including Clear Channel Outdoor, Outfront Media, and Lamar, own Oakland billboards. The average price of billboards in Oakland is between $600 to $2,000 per month, based on the location’s traffic and desirability. Many companies offer remnant or lower cost options if you are flexible on the locations of the billboards and the time they are displayed. If you want to run billboard ads in the Oakland area for your business, the team at AdvertiseMint can help you build your ideal strategy, determine the best locations, and ensure your campaigns are executed and provide a positive return on investment.
What are the most popular restaurants in Oakland?
Oakland’s culinary scene is rich and diverse, reflecting its vibrant mix of cultures. From soul food to pho to tacos, Oakland has something to offer everyone. Promoting a restaurant in Oakland requires a strategy that addresses the locals who call the city home, and the visitors who are drawn to its unique attractions. Effective restaurant advertising here should hone in on the uniqueness of the cuisine, ambiance, location, pricing, and the buzz generated on social platforms, Yelp, Google, and community forums.
If you aim to bolster your restaurant’s presence in Oakland, reach out to AdvertiseMint for insights and strategic direction. For your reference, here are some of the top dining establishments in Oakland:
- Commis – Commis is a Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in modern American cuisine, offering a superb dining experience. Chef James Syhabout leads the restaurant and creates a prix fixe menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and inventive culinary methods.
- Brown Sugar Kitchen – Brown Sugar Kitchen is a popular restaurant that serves delicious Southern-inspired comfort food. The talented Chef Tanya Holland leads the kitchen and creates mouth-watering dishes like buttermilk fried chicken, cornmeal waffles, and shrimp and grits.
- Hawker Fare – Hawker Fare offers a taste of Southeast Asian street food right in the heart of Oakland. The restaurant’s communal dining style and vibrant décor create an immersive experience that transports diners to the bustling food stalls of Southeast Asia.
- Shakewell – Shakewell is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that infuses traditional flavors with a modern twist. The vibrant and lively atmosphere, along with the diverse menu, makes Shakewell a hotspot for those seeking a vibrant dining experience.
- Pizzaiolo – Pizzaiolo is a neighborhood favorite that crafts artisanal pizzas with locally sourced ingredients and creative toppings. Pizzaiolo’s cozy ambiance and wood-fired oven make it a go-to spot for delicious and comforting Italian-inspired cuisine.
- Pizzeria Paradiso – This wood-fired pizzeria serves Neapolitan-style pizza, along with other Italian dishes. They have been featured in publications like The New York Times, Bon Appétit, and Food & Wine.
- Marica Restaurant – This restaurant serves seafood dishes, focusing on sustainable seafood. They have been featured in publications like 7×7 Magazine and Eater SF.
- Burma Superstar – This place serves scrumptious Burmese dishes that are reasonably priced. It has received acclaim from prestigious publications like The Wall Street Journal and Saveur.
- Sol Food – This restaurant specializes in Puerto Rican cuisine, offering popular dishes such as mofongo and pastelón. It has received recognition from The San Francisco Chronicle and 7×7 Magazine.
Top 10 things to do when you visit Oakland
Oakland City, a cultural hub in California, seamlessly weaves together its diverse heritage, artistic energy, and contemporary allure. As a bustling metropolis known for its progressive spirit, historic neighborhoods, and scenic landscapes, Oakland holds a captivating charm that captivates both locals and visitors. If you’re part of the hospitality, tourism, or related industries, tapping into the city’s dynamic appeal is key. Utilizing modern advertising platforms enables businesses to engage with not only residents but also those exploring the city. This dynamic landscape opens doors for local establishments to forge connections with an ever-evolving audience. Should you seek expertise in Oakland’s advertising agency, especially for destinations, accommodations, or local experiences, collaborate with AdvertiseMint Here’s a handy guide on the must-do activities when in Oakland:
- Oakland Museum of California – Explore the state’s art, history, and natural sciences at the Oakland Museum of California. With its interactive exhibits and diverse collections, the museum offers a captivating journey through California’s past and present.
- Redwood Regional Park – Immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur at Redwood Regional Park, home to towering redwood trees and scenic trails. The park provides an ideal escape for hiking, picnicking, and rejuvenating amidst ancient forests.
- Lake Merritt – Enjoy the picturesque shores of Lake Merritt, a unique tidal lagoon surrounded by a vibrant urban setting. The lake offers opportunities for boating, picnicking, and strolling along its scenic pathways.
- Jack London Square – Experience the bustling waterfront at Jack London Square, offering dining, shopping, and entertainment options. With its historic roots and lively atmosphere, the square provides a charming backdrop for exploration.
- Chabot Space and Science Center – Embark on a cosmic adventure at the Chabot Space and Science Center, featuring interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and astronomy-related programs that engage visitors of all ages.
- Fox Theater – Immerse yourself in Oakland’s arts scene by catching a show at the iconic Fox Theater. This beautifully restored venue hosts a range of concerts, performances, and events throughout the year.
- Oakland Zoo – Delight in wildlife encounters at the Oakland Zoo, home to a diverse array of animals from around the world. The zoo offers educational exhibits and conservation initiatives for an enriching experience.
- Temescal Alley – Discover the charm of Temescal Alley, a bustling enclave of boutiques, eateries, and artisanal shops. The alley offers a unique shopping and dining experience in a vibrant neighborhood setting.
- Joaquin Miller Park – Reconnect with nature at Joaquin Miller Park, a serene haven boasting trails, redwood groves, and panoramic vistas of the Bay Area. The park is ideal for hiking, jogging, and communing with the outdoors.
- Old Oakland Farmers Market – Immerse yourself in Oakland’s local flavors at the Old Oakland Farmers Market, where fresh produce, artisanal goods, and cultural experiences converge in a lively market setting.
The list gives you a taste of Oakland’s multifaceted allure. Whether it’s the thrill of roller coasters, nature’s serenity, or space’s magic, Oakland promises something for everyone.
Popular social media accounts in Oakland you need to follow
Engaging socially can be a game-changer in creating meaningful connections. Paid social ads seamlessly weave your business into the content-rich tapestry that users are engrossed in. Here’s a compilation of prominent Oakland-based social media handles that you’d want to keep tabs on to remain updated on all things Oakland:
- @oakland – The official Twitter account of the city itself, keeps you updated with local news, events, and community initiatives. From cultural highlights to civic engagement, this account provides a comprehensive view of Oakland’s pulse.
- @visitoakland – Explore Oakland’s top attractions, dining scenes, and cultural happenings through stunning visuals on @visitoakland’s Instagram account, serving as an exceptional virtual guide for both locals and tourists.
- @EastBayExpress – The East Bay Express, a well-known local publication, provides timely news, stories, and features that delve into Oakland’s diverse communities, arts, and activism. Following @EastBayExpress on Twitter keeps you informed about the city’s latest developments.
- @oaklandish – Celebrating Oakland’s culture and identity, @oaklandish on Instagram shares unique apparel, local events, and community collaborations that embody the spirit of the city.
Everything you need to know about Oakland Real Estate advertising
With tens of thousands of real estate agents in the Oakland area, there is constant need for real estate brokers and agents to get their properties in front of the right homebuyers. There are lots of options from targeted paid social and paid search ads, along with local options like Yelp, Google and Nextdoor and then options like direct mail or local cable ads. There are also digital options for real estate such as Realtor Connections, Zillow Real Estate Agency Advertising and the Trulia Real Estate Ad Network. Commercial real estate brokers are now using paid social to promote videos of their properties using LinkedIn ads to reach a B2B audience. Please note that many of the ad platforms have rules and limitations regarding the targeting of individuals while promoting real estate ads based on age, gender, ethnicity and location. The team at AdvertiseMint is happy to help you work through your options and can help you ensure you are generating leads for both home sellers and home buyers. For more detailed information on real estate advertising in Oakland, please contact Advertisemint.
Here are some of the neighborhoods you need to know about when advertising in Oakland, California.
- Downtown Oakland Real Estate Advertising – Downtown Oakland is the city’s central business district and is home to a variety of businesses, government offices, and cultural attractions. It is home to the Fox Theater, the African American Museum and Library and the Oakland Museum of California.
- Jack London Square Real Estate Advertising – Jack London Square is a lively area located by the waterfront, renowned for its bustling marketplace, exquisite dining options, and breathtaking bay outlooks. It’s home to a range of events, such as farmer’s markets, art shows, and live performances, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists.
- Rockridge Real Estate Advertising – Rockridge is a charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets, quaint shops, and a strong sense of community. Known for its Craftsman-style homes, Rockridge offers a mix of boutique stores, cafes, and dining options.
- Temescal Real Estate Advertising – Temescal is a vibrant neighborhood with a lot of street art and independent businesses. It is home to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as the Temescal Farmers Market, which is held every Sunday.
- Piedmont Avenue Real Estate Advertising – Piedmont Avenue is a cozy and family-friendly neighborhood featuring a charming commercial district. It offers a mix of boutiques, cafes, and specialty shops. The nearby Mountain View Cemetery provides a serene space for walking and reflection.
- Fruitvale Real Estate Advertising – Fruitvale is a culturally rich neighborhood with a strong Latino influence. It’s home to the vibrant Fruitvale Village, a center for local businesses, markets, and authentic eateries. The annual Dia de los Muertos festival is a highlight, celebrating Latino culture and traditions.
- Lake Merritt Real Estate Advertising – Bordering the iconic Lake Merritt, this area offers picturesque views, jogging paths, and recreational opportunities. The Grand Lake Theater, surrounded by cafes and shops, is a local landmark. The Lakeside Park and Gardens provide a serene oasis in the heart of the city.
- Uptown Oakland Real Estate Advertising – Uptown is known for its arts and entertainment scene, with theaters, galleries, and music venues aplenty. The historic Fox Theater anchors the area, and First Fridays Art Murmur draws crowds to explore galleries, food trucks, and street performances.
- Chinatown Real Estate Advertising – Oakland’s Chinatown is a vibrant cultural enclave offering traditional markets, herbal shops, and authentic cuisine. The area comes alive during the Lunar New Year celebrations, featuring colorful parades and cultural performances.
- Montclair Real Estate Advertising – Nestled in the Oakland Hills, Montclair offers stunning views of the Bay Area and a suburban feel. The Montclair Village features boutique shopping, cafes, and family-friendly attractions like parks and playgrounds.
Complete guide to annual events in Oakland
If you aim to promote a special occasion, whether it’s a music fest, cultural celebration, or a unique city event in Oakland, it’s essential to understand the local landscape. Planning should ideally commence several months in advance to advertise an event in Oakland effectively. The timeline depends on the event’s scale and anticipated attendance. To delve deeper into event advertising or consider sponsoring an Oakland event, feel free to reach out to Advertisemint. Our dedicated team would be delighted to assist.
- Art + Soul Oakland – August – Celebrate the city’s vibrant arts scene at Art + Soul Oakland, a festival featuring live music, dance performances, art exhibitions, and a diverse range of food vendors. This event showcases the creativity and culture of Oakland’s local artists.
- Oakland Running Festival – March – Lace up your running shoes for the Oakland Running Festival, a citywide event that offers races for all fitness levels, including a marathon, half marathon, 5K, and more. Participants traverse Oakland’s scenic streets and iconic landmarks, fostering a strong sense of community.
- Eat Real Festival – September – Food enthusiasts gather at the Eat Real Festival to enjoy artisanal street food, craft beers, and a celebration of sustainable eating. This event highlights local chefs, food vendors, and culinary demonstrations, promoting conscious food choices and community engagement.
- Oakland Art Murmur’s First Fridays – On the first Friday of each month – Oakland’s art galleries, studios, and cultural spaces come alive during the First Fridays Art Murmur. Attendees explore galleries, enjoy live music, food trucks, and street performances, immersing themselves in the city’s vibrant arts scene.
- Oakland International Film Festival – April – Film aficionados flock to the Oakland International Film Festival, showcasing independent films from around the world that focus on social issues, cultural diversity, and artistic expression. The festival provides a platform for emerging filmmakers to share their perspectives and narratives.
- Oakland Pride – September – Celebrate inclusivity, diversity, and LGBTQ+ pride at the Oakland Pride Parade and Festival. The event features colorful floats, live performances, community organizations, and vendors, fostering a sense of unity and acceptance.
- Art + Soul Oakland Gospel Showcase – August – As part of the Art + Soul Oakland festival, the Gospel Showcase brings together local and national gospel artists for an uplifting and soulful musical experience. Attendees enjoy powerful performances that celebrate spirituality and musical talent.
- Black Joy Parade – February – The Black Joy Parade is a vibrant celebration that honors the achievements and contributions of the Black community. The event features music, dance, art, and community engagement, emphasizing positivity, resilience, and cultural pride.
- Cinco de Mayo Festival – May – Oakland’s Cinco de Mayo Festival is a lively cultural celebration honoring Mexican heritage and history. The event features traditional music, dance performances, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
- Oakland Music Festival – September – The Oakland Music Festival is a multi-venue event that showcases a diverse lineup of local and national musicians, spanning various genres from hip-hop to electronic music. Attendees enjoy a dynamic music experience while exploring Oakland’s vibrant neighborhoods.
How to advertise a professional service business in Oakland?
There are so many professional service providers in Oakland that it can become crowded and difficult for many consumers to find your business. If you are a lawyer, doctor, dentist, contractor, accountant, or work in childcare, food services, event planning, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, roofing, HVAC, waste removal, or security services – then you need to be advertising your services. You must ensure you have local pages created on Google Local and Yelp and paid ads to ensure customers see your business first. You should also run paid search and social ads so individuals can visually see and experience your business’s services in Oakland. If you need help advertising your service-based business in Oakland, please contact Advertisemint and speak with one of our advertising experts.
Oakland government advertising
Countless municipal and government departments often have highly specific advertising needs in the Oakland area. If you are an Oakland politician running for office or work in an Oakland-based government division and need assistance with setting up marketing campaigns, advertising campaigns, or any creative elements like videos, photography, or graphic design, AdvertiseMint can help you build a strategy, accommodate any government regulations, place the media and report back on the KPIs required for success and return on investment. For reference, here are a few of the top government resources for Oakland.
- City of Oakland Official Website
- Oakland Chamber of Commerce
- Oakland Mayor’s Office
- Oakland City Council
- Oakland Police Department
- Oakland Fire Department
- Oakland Housing Authority
- Oakland Planning and Building Department
- Oakland Department of Race and Equity
- Parks, Recreation & Youth Development
- Oakland Department of Transportation
- Oakland Public Library
- Oakland Human Services Department
- Oakland Public Works
What is the Best Oakland Ad Agency?
We believe AdvertiseMint is the best Oakland Ad agency. AdvertiseMint brings a full team of advertising experts, including account managers, media buyers, copywriters, and creative experts in video production, editing, photography, graphic design, and data analysis to ensure our metrics are met. We would love the opportunity to help grow your business.
Disclaimer: AdvertiseMint is an advertising agency that provides advertising and marketing services to businesses located in Oakland. The details provided on this page are for informational purposes and to help explain the services we provide for our clients. AdvertiseMint has no affiliation or exclusive partnerships with the city of Oakland, tourist locations, government divisions, sports teams, educational institutions, annual events, restaurants, or other businesses mentioned on this page.