Not OP. I've only visited the Bay Area a few times. Human filth, needles, and just so many people packed into the space. I can't imagine raising a family in that situation. Contrast that with where I am now: I have a very large house on 10+ acres of land on the edge of a lake. Each of my kids has their own room and there are lots of rooms and corners to "get away from each other". We have room for food storage, a home gym, and are not dependent on the city for water or gas (though we do have to fill our propane tank a couple times a year). If I walk to the edges of my property, I can see a couple other houses. We have bon fires, ride ATVs, go fishing, shoot guns and bows in the back yard. We have full on seasons (granted that winter is the largest, but we like cold and snow). Not to even begin talking about the political differences.
The few things I liked about the Bay Area: lots of economic opportunity (esp. as a software dev), nearby greenery, and lots of food options. Oh, and the ability to find others who would like to play board games. I can't find anyone to play board games with out in the middle of nowhere (my family is not interested in any).
The "Bay Area" is a big place. I live a similar lifestyle and I'm 45m from downtown Oakland. You could do closer if you're willing to spend more or have neighbors.
How? I was in the city for a week and saw more needles on the street than the slums of China.
Even the townsfolk would complain about some mental hospital closing down forcing mentally ill people to live on the streets and you could see them everywhere.
That said, I didn't have a guide, I'd just walk with friends for an hour or two aimlessly starting from the pier. On the other hand, this is how I'm used to do it and I've been to 20+ countries.
All cities have bad parts. San Francisco is somewhat unique amongst places that I've visited, in that most of the tourist traps are either in or are immediately next to the absolute worst parts of town.
Nope. I just don’t live in the tenderloin. Unfortunately that’s where all the hotels are. So I’m not surprised that visitors (and twitterati) get a certain sense.
The few things I liked about the Bay Area: lots of economic opportunity (esp. as a software dev), nearby greenery, and lots of food options. Oh, and the ability to find others who would like to play board games. I can't find anyone to play board games with out in the middle of nowhere (my family is not interested in any).