Places to live in Northern California?

[Tony from Europe]

San Francisco or Berkeley

[Everleighdy81]

Originally Posted by NorthernCalifornia

Here's a tip: If you're 26 and live in the bay area you shouldn't think you can afford a 1br apartment all to yourself. Welcome to California!

I *assume* that $800 is her rent for a studio or shared room. $800 is great in SF, you can find a nice share in a good part of town. It'll get you a studio in Oakland. I'd recommend North Oakland//Temescal if you go that route.

Dear Northern California
please forgive me if I came across as a complete idiot-I've been living on my own for 7 years in Chicago so I am not completely delusional in regards to living expenses. Yes, very good, I am looking for a studio-to be perfectly honest I dont care if it means having my bed in the middle of my kitchen. If that makes a difference regarding your advice than there you go. Other wise, thank you, i will definitely be more careful with my words and details the next time I ask for help. And thank you as well for your recommendations.

[eureka1]

And avoid Richmond,the murder rate is too high. Don't worry, if you're flexible you'll find something. Some recession-affected families in the nicer areas are renting out rooms in their houses, which coud be a nice short term solution.(Try Craigslist) If you don't mind, I'm curious as to why you're leaving my favorite city, Chicago. Is is the weather??.

[bigcats]

Originally Posted by Everleighdy81

Dear Northern California
please forgive me if I came across as a complete idiot-I've been living on my own for 7 years in Chicago so I am not completely delusional in regards to living expenses. Yes, very good, I am looking for a studio-to be perfectly honest I dont care if it means having my bed in the middle of my kitchen. If that makes a difference regarding your advice than there you go. Other wise, thank you, i will definitely be more careful with my words and details the next time I ask for help. And thank you as well for your recommendations.

It's perfectly possible to rent a one bedroom apartment in Oakland and several other surrounding cities for around $800. I've had my large one-bedroom to myself for $850 since I was 22 and have had no financial problems. It's certainly do-able, even if you're not in a high paying profession (I'm not).

[bexaminer]

I have to say that all things are relative. Speaking for myself, I don't think I could find a place that would be acceptable to me for $800 a month. In fact I know I can't. But again, all things are relative. If The geographic area is more important than your living environment then perhaps, with as someone said "good fortunre" luck, and good karma you'll find something.
Good luck.

[coyoteskye]

Originally Posted by Everleighdy81

I am a 26 year old, single female looking to move out to Northern California in May. I would like to live in an area that is very liberal and artsy and hopefully has alot of other people around my age. I wouldn't mind being in commuting distance to San Francisco (1 hour commute tops) in order to open up my job options. I need a town that is affordable (I can't afford to pay more than $800.00 a month on an apartment). If anyone can help me with suggestions I would greatly appreciate it.
Thanks

santa cruz.
it's expensive but you can do it w/ 800 a month for rent.
it's worth it to me ... more on rent and more frugal in other ways.
san francisco is less than 2 hrs to the north and not a bad drive when it's not rush hr.