Oakland is close too, but is sometimes dangerous to live. If in doubt, check the police statistics at a police web site. Because it's a sellers market, Berkeley landlords tend to be negligent and arrogant. And don't think that all Berkeley people are like that. Of course there are nice landlords too.
Online maps are useful in locating places.
Team up with other people and search for a three bedroom or bigger apartment. These are easier to find. Perhaps its better to forget about finding one bedroom apts or studios near campus in August. Find a place to live for a couple of months, move out when you find a better place. It's a lot easier to find a place at the end of a semester.