I live in Petaluma up in Sonoma county. I commuted to the city for a year on a nice direct bus-line that usually got me to/from the city in about an hour. I kno

I live in Petaluma up in Sonoma county. I commuted to the city for a year on a nice direct bus-line that usually got me to/from the city in about an hour. I know that sounds long but the bus was more comfortable than bart, had wifi and I'd just code my way to/form work. Seemed better than as East Bay commute. Best move I've ever made. Surrounded by beautiful country, better weather and a very friendly, hip community with great restaurants, bars and the like. It may not be for the 20 year olds, but when you're ready or can work a couple days from home, there are definitely affordable alternatives other than SF and the Valley. My previous rent check now covers a house mortgage, yard, insurance and taxes. Plenty of places in northern or western Marin that are the same. It's more affordable than you think. Almost more importantly, my neighbors and friends out here aren't all in startups. There's some actual diversity to the residents, being a mix of farmers, blue collar workers and desk job commuters.