<p>Compactrunner: I lived in Portland for many years and the weather down here is a lot better than the NW. People here complain about rain, and it does rain over here, but nothing like how it does up there. You can go weeks without seeing the sun up there, that is usually not the case over here. </p>
<p>Regarding safety, you just have to be smart about what you’re doing and what time of day you’re doing it. Have some situational awareness and use some common sense. I would suggest not to walk alone late at night if possible. For the most part, its pretty safe. You are going to have to get used to the bums and general ghettoness of the area though. But after awhile, Berkeley really starts to grow on you!</p>