The topography of Milpitas is characterized by two distinct zones. The western and central portions of the city lie on the flat alluvial plain of the Santa Clara Valley, with elevations hovering near sea level (around 15 to 50 feet). This flat terrain accommodates the city's residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and industrial parks.
To the east, the terrain rises abruptly into the foothills of the Diablo Range. The elevation climbs steeply to over 2,500 feet at Monument Peak, a prominent local landmark. This hilly region is largely preserved as open space and regional parkland, featuring steep ridges, oak woodlands, and steep canyons, providing a scenic backdrop for the city below.