Which SF neighborhoods are best for families?

I'm moving to SF from Hawaii and can't really go there myself to check it out. We have a 2500/mo budget and would like a family friendly community because we have 3 young kids. It would be nice to get into a 3br, but I am realistic, and realize that for 2500/mo it will probably be more like a 2br. I could live outside the city, but my husband is military and if we live outside the city, our housing allowance drops anyhow. It goes by zip code. Soooo... I would prefer to live in the city for the experience, and also to save on gas! I drive a v8 and if I could take public transportation, it would be awesome!Which SF neighborhoods are best for families?
The Sunset is good- far away enough from downtown, but close enough at the same time. The Richmond district is nice too. The Castro is another good place- even if it is the gay mecca of SF. Though rent may be pricey, Northbeach would be great for kids.



As far as living outside of SF, I'd tell you to try looking at places in Emeryville, Rockridge, or even Berkeley. Parts of Oakland are nice too- like College Avenue and Piedmont.



Please stay away from the Tenderloin or South of market areas - not suitable for small kids.Which SF neighborhoods are best for families?
Inner Richmond and Inner Sunset neighborhoods are good for families. Noe Valley is nice, but will be pricey for that budget. Check out the Inner Richmond.Which SF neighborhoods are best for families?
Marina, Inner Richmond ( since the further west you go the colder it is) Avoid tenderloin, lower fillmore, bayview, lots of the mission and outer sunset and outer richmond districts either due to crime or foggy weather.

eyeliner