Cheap renting in San Rafael, Berkeley, or Oakland? (Richmond, Piedmont: apartment complexes, neighborhoods)

[hay42]

I am visiting later this month to search for an apartment in the area. My job will be in San Rafael but as a recent college graduate, I thought that I could find a better lifestyle in Berkeley... or a cheaper one in Oakland. I figure with somewhat of a reverse commute, that would only put me out 30-40 mins.

I am looking for a studio with bare necessities (bathroom, kitchenette, I'm okay with a small place) or am considering a dorm-like lifestyle with a roommate, but this would not be optimum.
Preferably $600-$800 but I realize $1000 may be more realistic.

I have been fine searching and getting prices from these places (craig's list, ect.). What I need from you is a little bit more insight on active, safe, walk-able neighborhoods. I play tennis, frequent the gym, play drums (electronic -not as loud), and I think I would like the "city" feel.

Anything is negotiable, so if anyone has any ideas I would greatly appreciate it. Also, any advice for actually driving around to these places, ie: are there lots of apartment complexes with offices for information or should I spend time setting up appointments?

Thanks,
J

[ippi76]

Yes, Oakland/Berkeley are cheaper, but you will have to cross the Richmond Bridge everyday. Assuming you work 5 days/wkm that is an extra $100 a month. Thrown in gas and you are at least 175-200 more a month. I'm not sure if that's enough a difference to live in San Rafael though.
For Oakland neighborhoods, I'll leave that to others, I'm sure Rockridge and Temescal will pop up, and others I'm not aware of.

[hay42]

That is a fair point. It is something to consider, but how livable is San Rafael? At first I was looking to move there or Richmond, but was strayed away after speaking with some locals concerning my age group.

I loved college. Hanging out and playing volleyball -whatnot. $200-$300 is not that bad of a price to live in an area that seems like it would be more enjoyable. I would like to hear more about some San Rafael neighborhoods though. Thank you for your post.

[mayorhaggar]

San Rafael is more suburban than Oakland/Berkeley but it's supposed to be pretty affordable by Marin standards and your commute would be really easy.

If you do want to live somewhere younger and more urban, Berkeley is best for roommate shares, but it can be expensive if you want your own apartment. Oakland doesn't have many roommate shares but for getting your own apartment it's pretty affordable. I'd look at the Temescal, Piedmont Ave area, and the Grand Lake area. Rockridge is really cool but there aren't many apartments there so prices tend to be higher than the other areas I just listed. Just go on craiglist and see what you can find at your budget.