Just how bad IS E. Palo Alto? (Sunnyvale, Mountain View: rental, crime)

[Wintermomma]

I hear reports of "stay away!" and "well, it's not as bad as it used to be?"

Doing research to recommence the "Impossible Rental Search" next year.

Thanks.

[ippi76]

East Palo Alto is not as bad as it used to be in the late 1980's and early 1990's, when it was known as one of the "murder capitals" of America. There have been less then 10 murders per year in the city in recent years, and ton of new housing and retail has been built in the city in past 15 years.
I don't know where you're looking to rent, I know Palo Alto (not East Palo Alto) is extremely expensive, however cities such as Mountain View and Sunnyvale are fairly close to Palo Alto and do not have a reputation for past crime like East Palo Alto does.

[Wintermomma]

10 murders, PER YEAR? That place is pretty darn small, at least by the map, for that rate.

So far I'm striking out just about everywhere but I notice that E. PA will have lot more available in my filters...that is why I asked. Honestly I'd much prefer Mountain View, or any of the others.

Just researching for now....but thank you!

[sonarrat]

East Palo Alto has changed from a segregated mostly black hellhole to a Hispanic barrio in a remarkably short time. I know people who work with kids from EPA, and it's a whole different world there. There are lots of children who don't know anything outside their little city. It's insular, unfriendly, and harsh, with crime, gangs, terrible roads and not much in the way of services due to poor management which spends money on new Dodge Charger cop cars instead of the more important basics.

[mysticaltyger]

Originally Posted by Wintermomma

I hear reports of "stay away!" and "well, it's not as bad as it used to be?"

Doing research to recommence the "Impossible Rental Search" next year.

Thanks.

I think both statements are true. From a safety standpoint, it's a lot better than it used to be, but still less safe than average. From a quality of life standpoint, it's still not a great area (too many cars parked on the streets, homes now well maintained, etc.). I would still avoid the area.