East Bay/Alameda, Oakland, Daly City, etc? (Montclair, Monterey: apartment, homes)

[ar294]

Hello -

My husband works in the financial district and temporarily rents a room on Clement St. We're trying to find a reasonably priced ($1300-$1600) two bedroom apartment, possibly in the East Bay area. He wants a 30min or less commute but is willing to take public transportation. The bottom line (rent plus transportation costs) is important to us.

We're expecting our first child in a couple of months and are moving from Monterey, which has a great "small-town" feel. I don't want to live in the City both because of the cost and because it's too claustrophobic for me - I want an area where I can go on walks without worrying, with parks, and that is family friendly.

Right now, we're thinking of looking in Alameda or the Oakland Rockridge/Hills/Lake Merritt areas. Any insider input or suggestions?

Thanks,

[kettlepot]

I have visited the city of Alameda many times and think it is a wonderful, safe, modest-sized town. However, given that it is located on a small island, it might not be the answer to your desire to avoid claustrophobia.

[sonarrat]

Lake Merritt is pretty claustrophobia-inducing too. I almost rented a duplex there before I actually saw how closely packed some of the homes were. I think Rockridge, Montclair, Piedmont will feel more comfortable for you.

[jeevcy]

Originally Posted by kettlepot

I have visited the city of Alameda many times and think it is a wonderful, safe, modest-sized town. However, given that it is located on a small island, it might not be the answer to your desire to avoid claustrophobia.

if you want a small town feel alameda is really good. i am not sure i would agree about it being claustrophobic. Bay Farm Island (not an island really!) in Alameda is worth looking as well.

[mysticaltyger]

Alameda is nice but I don't know how great the transportation would be from there to SF. However, I do think they have an express bus from Alameda (but not sure).

The Rockridge area has BART train service to SF, so that would be really covenient. I personally like Rockridge because it kind of combines the best of urban (has a cute shopping area & bart) & suburban (semi urban but definitely not claustrophobic) if you can afford it.

[Native Alamedan]

Not only does the bus run to SF from Alameda, so do ferries from 2 locations.