I need the rundown on Pasadena (San Diego: rental, living, prices)

[Laocoön]

I am familiar with California living. Lived in San Diego on a couple of different occasions, also in the SF Bay Area. Had a cup of coffee in L.A., where I stayed for a couple of months just off Sunset. Have visited Pasadena just once, and am familiar with the lay of the land there.

Need to know the real skinny on what it would be like to live in Pasadena. Work is half from home, half making jaunts all over the central L.A. metro area. I would have my girlfriend in tow, no children, no pets, no need for a large living space. I'm looking for info on rental prices (1 BRs) and good locations in which to start hunting. Also would like to learn about the general cost of living, traffic concerns, the real safety index; more about the "feel" and vibe of the area, the general makeup of the area, and cultural proclivities and features. How walkable is it? How pervasive are gangs and bad elements and drug culture? What is the weather like up there -- any different than the basin of L.A.? Any areas nearby that are comparable to Pasadena I might look into as well?

Any and all info on Pasadena is welcome.

Thanks.

[True Freedom]

here's a good thread to check out:
What makes Pasadena so desirable?