Best neighborhoods in Berkeley? (Oakland, Upland: apartment, rental, houses)

[LostinCalifornia]

Considering moving back to Berkeley-area after living in Palo Alto; don't want too much of a culture shock right away.

What would be the best neighborhoods to consider given the following ideals:

- clean, residential, well-kept
- very safe
- greenery; nice enough to walk or jog through the neighborhood
- not too population dense or w/ heavy traffic; private
- cottage-style abodes available
- studio or 1-bedroom apartment under $1500
- respectful of other people and low-key--won't mind me even if I might seem a bit "different" at first than the typical Berkeleyan
- somewhat close to a low-key commercial area for errands

Thanks.

[artemis78]

I'd put Elmwood/Claremont first on that list, followed by North Berkeley/the Gourmet Ghetto area. I know that Elmwood has a number of beautiful old houses with rental in-law cottages, though--you may have to watch for one for a bit, but it will be worth it. You might also look at Rockridge in Oakland. Try the area east of College (along Claremont, up towards the hills) for the quieter side of things. Claremont also has its own cute mini-commercial district, and some grand homes with cottages in back.

[jpcook]

There are some nice spots in upper Albany and North of the campus in the hills. A lot of houses have in laws and studio apts attached or studios. If I were moving back into the area, I'd look at upper Rockridge.

[MaikeerinWA]

It's not in Berkeley proper, but the aforementioned Rockridge neighborhood would definitely be high on my list, if I were moving to the East Bay.

[N CA]

I had a relative who used to live in the Uplands. Huge lot and a huge home. Very nice.