Blossom Valley, San Jose

You are deep into suburban living by the time you get into Blossom Valley. Condos, townhomes, single-family homes and even trailer parks make up the dozen or so micro neighborhoods that you find here.

Average home prices are not too bad—especially compared to those in the Peninsula just to the northwest.

Typically, homes run from about $400K to $600K.

Condos and townhomes are closer to $300K

And mobile homes $60K to $120K.

There are tons and tons of condos and townhomes here—some quite nice, some looking kind of worn. The majority of the condos are located by Almaden Lake, in the McKeon neighborhood and just north of Blossom Hill Road before it is cut off by 85 on.

About three quarters of homes in the area on the market due to foreclosure.

In terms of renting, your typical 2 bedroom apartment runs about $1500 though some can rise much higher.

--In terms of schools, it is a bit of a mixed bag. Gunderson High at the heart of the Blossom Hill area is below average and Oak Grove is only slightly better (average). But Santa Teresa High is definitely above average and the neighboring schools to the south and west (such as Pioneer High) are some of the best in California.

--Shopping—This is suburban living with all of its usual amenities: strip malls, supermarkets, and, of course, a giant mall. The Oakridge Mall, on the western end, is basically one of those Fast Times at Ridgemont High types of mega-plexes. You know the scene—trolling teens, families, and the usual churning of the wheels of fluorescent lit commerce.

--Restaurants—In terms of dining, this is not a gourmet smorgasbord. There are however quite a few okay dining locales—especially if you are into sushi or East Asian cuisine in general. Overall, however, you will have to head to other places for really cool dining.

--Nightlife—In terms of nightlife, this is mostly a movie, sushi and bowling kind of place. Nothing too spectacular.

In other words, this is your full-service, middle-class suburban neighborhood.