Originally Posted by
NZAV8R
cflight, if you've haven't already searched, there are some posts back around 1/28/10, around page 75, that discuss the schedule, etc.
For a short while I used to live in the SF Bay area and I can say that some parts of Oakland are not that safe. Living in Alameda, (fun, hip urban neighborhood), Hayward or Fremont (reasonably close to airport) or Livermore (more reasonable rent prices, but a 35-45 min commute and not as much to do) might be better options for you to consider.
LOL, that's an understatement!
As someone Bay Area born and raised I would agree with the rest. As far as living goes avoid most of Oakland if you are not from there. Some blocks are totally fine, others you just don't go anywhere near. Unless you have spent a lot of time there you won't know how to tell the difference. Personally, I think most of Oakland does not deserve the reputation it has, but for some areas, it's far worse than you could imagine.
If you want a decent place close to the airport, Alameda is probably your best bet. Otherwise, most of Hayward is alright, I'm partial to Emeryville or Berkeley (having been born there), but a lot don't like it there. You'll either love it or hate it there it seems.