What is it like living in Berkeley, CA?

My husband, soon newborn and I are thinking about moving to Berkeley, rather than moving to San Francisco proper, so to speak. This would give us more house for the money and perhaps a nicer neighborhood that would make it easier to meet new people.

Can anyone let me know what Berkeley is like for a mid thirties couple? Is it friendly? Snotty? Extremely green and vegan and hippie? Or is just like any other place?

Is there a particular area that we should avoid? Does higher house prices automatically mean a nicer and safer area?