Hi all:

I might be attending grad school in the Bay Area next year and trying to research the area before I move. Can I get some advice on affordable housing options? I've been checking craigslist.com and housingmaps.com to get a general idea on what my rent would be. It seems $700-$1000 seems to be the avg rate for an avg place. Unfortunately, I am unfamiliar with the neighborhoods. What areas are safe, affordable neighborhoods to live in? I plan on working and going to school near downtown SF.

Also, do I really need to own a car in SF? Is public transportation good enough that I can get by without it? I'd miss my Fit, but my sister and her family could use it more than my single ass.

Thanks!

 

you dont really need to have a car in SF, you can take the bus pretty much anywhere, as for neiborhoods you would try to stay away from the tenderloin (TL) its not bad but its not good. i say a pretty decent place to stay at with good public transportation would be the sunset district or the richmond district would be the best for safe wise and good public transportation. hope this helps

 

Advice?

Get a raise. Everything is too expensive here.