Originally Posted by
HSaxa
I agree that North Beach is too far from the freeways. Cole Valley might be a good middle ground that is worth exploring given that it is close to Fell. I love that area as it is close to the park, yet removed from Haight.
I live in Noe so can relate to its pro's... though the strollers and lattes can be overwhelming at times (if so, I just walk 5 blocks to the Mission). I also agree with the other poster that the area around Liberty Heights is well worth exploring. Finally, if you like the Haight, Duboce Triangle and the Lower Haight might also meet your needs (and closer to the freeway).
I may have already said this upthread, but I live in Lower Haight and commute to Palo Alto every day. I love the 'hood and getting on the freeway in the morning is a breeze (almost always less than 5 minutes from garage door to the freeway entrance at Octavia/Market). Of course, things can move pretty slowly once on the freeway if you don't go early (or late) enough.