Pulgas Ave, East Palo Alto

East Palo Alto definitely raises eyebrows with many a homebuyer or real estate agent - the town's history, combined with the fact that it was the murder capital of the United States in 1992, make it a less-than-desirable location for Bay Area natives (non-Californians are generally less aware of its history and reputation, and more likely to move here, from what it seems).

Pulgas Avenue, however, happens to be one of the more heavily trafficked streets, which, in this town, means more exposure, more access to police, and an overall safer neighborhood. It runs up just past Bay Road (which is actually pretty gross), all the way south to the 101, passing several new housing developments.

While Pulgas may not be the prettiest street in town, it generally does not feel unsafe, just run-down. And as a street that runs parallel to University, it offers a less traffic-intensive commuting alternative.