The Fly,
Why in god's name would you want to live in Venice? Lock your doors/windows at all times and watch out for those little gang bangin fuckers. LOL I don't know how well you know the area. You may have grown up there for all I know. But, there is a reason you only have to pay $1,200
Keyser,
Northern Cali varies greatly. California in general is expensive compared to other areas of the country. There are still cities up there that can be reasonable. But, they are all in bumfuck egypt. Anywhere near the Bay area, Silcon Valley, etc. (a decent area anyways) will cost A LOT.
BTW, Where I live $650,000 won't even buy you a house. I'm in SoCal in one of the FEW nice areas LA County has to offer. Average 2 bdrm, 1 bath house will run you around $950,000, if you get lucky. It's disgusting, but true. I would never buy here or up there, way too much money for far too little. I love SoCal but I don't want to have to move to the Valley just to be able to afford a house. Even in the valley, if you want to live somewhere decent, you're still looking at $350,000 for a very modest home. It's cheaper in the outskirts...and I do mean outskirts. San Bernadino County you can still find ahouse for $250,000.
I have no idea why I just went on a rant about SoCal prices, you asked for Northern Cali...oh well if you change your mind and come down here, at least you'll have an idea.
And btw...if I was moving to Cali and about to put up with all the shit that comes with it....why not move where the weather is always nice? I can't imagine living anywhere in Cali, but southern.

Best weather in the world.