From my experience, San Mateo would be the farthest south (I did this commute for awhile) and Daly City/Pacifica and parts of San Francisco nearer toward the HWY 1 would be good. I would try avoid 101 if I can most peak times if you are not going to be living in Daly City or Pacifica or the most San Mateo to the south. 280 is better than the 101 for commuting. Of course, this also depends on where you work in South San Francisco. Which part of SSF do you work at? I offer free reports on areas of interest to you. You can sign up at my website, no obligation. Let me know if you have any other questions. Thanks!!

Don't rule out San Bruno. There is an area south of San Bruno Ave. that has great weather, well priced homes. It is called Crestmoor Park. I call it Millbrae Living at San Bruno Prices.
Give me a call if you would like to see some homes in the area. It will be a real nice commute. Maybe even come home for lunch. 877-Lee-Sells or 650-358-3959 http://www.leesellsmore.com
Lee

I'm surprised no one has yet mentioned Daly City, Pacifica, or even Montara. These areas are also 30 minutes or less to South San Francisco in rush hour. The quickest way from the furthest town of these 3, Montara, is Hwy 1 over Devil's Slide (tunnel project to be completed in 2011), through Pacifica via Sharp Park to Skyline which takes you right into South San Francisco. The weather in these communities is a little cooler than the mid-peninsula towns of San Mateo, Burlingame, etc. if that is important. Worth exploring if you're not familiar with these areas and want to be a little closer to the beaches. I agree with Allison, several of these communities would work, but each has its own feel, so it depends on you're criteria.

Best,
Marian
New listing 430 6th Street, Montara, in MLS on 6/14/09
New listing 523 Francisco Street, El Granada, in MLS on 6/14/09

I live in Belmont and you could probably go a bit further south to Redwood City, but it may be pushing it. Belmont, San Carlos, Burlingame, San Mateo, maybe Foster City and Redwood Shores would work too. Let me know if you need more info regarding homes in these areas. And again it just depends what type of community you are looking for which would then determine where you should be looking.

You can probably go as far South as Belmont. Just as important, what are your other criterias? Like bed and bath count, yards or views, weather, and of course schools?

If you would like to discuss further what the pros and cons are, feel free to call or email.

Cheers,

Dave "Tap" Tapper
Realtor
Cashin Company http://www.DavidTapper.com
redt4u@aol.com
650-403-6252

Dear Friend,

There is the east bay, but driving by car in the 30 minute range may not be a viable option, unless you will use BART. Therefore, it does appear that San Bruno, Burlingame, Millbrae, Redwood City, Union City are better options given your 30 minute goal to South San Francisco during rush hour. Good luck!