In the bay area you're pretty much screwed no matter how far out you go. But it's not just about cost of living, it's also about finding a place you can afford

In the bay area you're pretty much screwed no matter how far out you go. But it's not just about cost of living, it's also about finding a place you can afford where you wouldn't mind sending your kids to school some day. That cuts the options down quite a bit.