Capitol Ave, East Palo Alto

Capitol Avenue Falls under the category of standard East Palo Alto streets - the houses are run-down but have some potential, gang activity is slightly under wraps but is still prevalent, and the schools are not good but there is the option to send kids to schools in other towns. Given the proximity to University Avenue and Donohoe Street, traffic is heavier than on other side streets, but the visibility and the fact that the homes are in the backyard of many of EPA's longtime establishments means that it is slightly harder to commit crime here. This street is also within walking distance of many of the grocery stores and the major shopping center, if you can brave the walk.

This is a good place for long-term investment (10-20 years) and/or to purchase a starter home, but raising a family here could be tough. You do get more square footage for your money than almost anywhere else on the Peninsula.