Affordable/safe place to live in San Diego? (La Mesa, Mesa: hardwood floors, apartments)

[azbrooke]

Hello, my friend and I are moving to San Diego in two months and I'm looking for an affordable/safe city to live in. It doesn't have to be in the city but within about 20-30 miles. I've been told not to go south of San Diego because it's close to the border and not the safest area. My friend and I are both girls and in our early twenties so any help would be much appreciated! Also, I would like to stay in a price range of $1000-$1200 a month, 2 bed/1 bath. Thank you!

[moved]

You won't find a 2br/2ba for that amount. Where will you be working?

[oddstray]

And forget about that "south of San Diego because it's close to the border" nonsense. That's zenophobic alarmist hype that's used to sell newspapers.

[sdlife619]

The ghetto, that's all that's left for affordable housing in SD. Just make sure you're strapped.

[ShelbyGirl1]

That price range for a 2 Br/2 bath, is going to be very difficult. You might want to rethink your strategy. Remember, the further out of SD, the more for your money. Even then, it's tough. My son lives in Rancho Bernardo....nice apt., but nothing fantastic and pays $1600 for a 1 bedroom.

[mdm1]

Originally Posted by ShelbyGirl1

That price range for a 2 Br/2 bath, is going to be very difficult. You might want to rethink your strategy. Remember, the further out of SD, the more for your money. Even then, it's tough. My son lives in Rancho Bernardo....nice apt., but nothing fantastic and pays $1600 for a 1 bedroom.

That seems like a pretty big ripoff unless that apartment is really nice and big. Even so, isn't the point of living in a place like Rancho Bernardo being able to send your family to nice schools and have a 4 bedroom with a yard in a super safe suburban area?

Anyhow, OP, you actually may be able to land a 2br/1ba in North Park/Normal Heights area for around $1200. For 1300-1400 you'll definitely find something. You're unlikely to get two parking spots, or hardwood floors, or in unit laundry, or something super modern, but it's better (IMO) to make some sacrifices in the amenities department to live in an area that isn't hot, dusty, family oriented suburbs far from places you'll be hanging out.

edit: quick craigslisting shows some sub 1200 2br/1ba properties in the University Heights/North Park area.

[moved]

The OP apparently moved to Phoenix this summer, doesn't like it, and now wants to move here. She also hasn't been back to answer any job related questions.

[Pretzelogik]

San Diego and affordable are an oxymoron....sorry.

[crunchymama192]

you can definitely find a place for that price. I dont know what these people are talking about. maybe not in the best area though. la mesa isnt too bad. Grossmont Bluffs Apartments For Rent in La Mesa, California - Apartment Rental and Community Details - ForRent.com

[moved]

The OP hasn't been back to post any more information yet,. She's only posted twice, and hasn't responded to where where her job is.