moving up to the east bay

hey all. i'm currently living down in san jose, but am working in san francisco. i'm looking to move up to a place closer to the city that is somewhat affordable. right now i am driving to fremont and taking the bart up 5 days a week and it is killer.

i'm thinking lake merritt in oakland would be ok. i'm preferably going to get a studio.

anyone have any thoughts on nicer areas to live in the east bay that are somewhat affordable and close to a bart stop?

edit: thanks everyone! definitely narrowing down my search.