As someone who moved to California in the 70's to go to Berkeley, I deeply relate to this piece. I left several times over the years but always returned to the Bay Area. I considered it "home".

I left in 2008 just before the crash. I don't think I will ever be able to afford to go back. Like you, I'm also not sure if I want to.

Bad times are coming fast. Get used to seeing homeless people. There are going to be more and more of them for the rest of your life.