I would recommend east bay if you do not mind the commute / public transportation; Rents are definitely cheaper on the east side; Though if you would like to

I would recommend east bay if you do not mind the commute / public transportation; Rents are definitely cheaper on the east side; Though if you would like to be near palo alto and do not necessarily mind a tough neighborhood, try East Palo Alto (The difference crossing over the 101 on University Ave. is pretty drastic, as are the rents) I've lived in downtown San Jose and Berkeley - SJ is cheaper, but I prefer Berkeley because of the weather, college atmosphere and good looking women (mostly ;) Cost of lving (I lived alone) SJ rent for 1 bedroom: $1,350 // Berkeley rent for 2 bedroom: $1,850 (Both included all utilities except electricity) Food: Dont skimp on food or toilet paper! ;) I like to cook, so I prepared my own food for the most part to keep costs relatively cheap - ex: cooking a nice cut of tri-tip with veggies can last a few days, etc. $200-250/mo Internets: ~$70/mo for static IP Extracurricular: $250/mo Gas/Transportation: Variable depending on whether you drive or bus / Bart