I just showed a house on Mansfield there (about 1300 sqft) and about 250-300k asking.
Thats pretty much the price of a 2br apt in central Hillcrest.
I host open houses there (Hillcrest) constantly.
As an alternative, I would look at North Park east of 30th (probably north of Upas).
Finally, I would have a peak at some of the places in South Park (basically greater North Park South of Juniper). I have seen several places there (especially those with the 92102 zip code) that really make a lot of sense.
Okay and one other area to check out.
Sorry, I am a geek about this.
This is more for those who don’t have kids and are more interested in really gorgeous historic neighborhoods. Its a touch sketchy but Sherman Heights (east of the ballpark and south of 94) has lots of buildings that are more than 100 years old and can be bought for cheap. Again a sketchy neighborhood but truly incredible homes.