I don't think many people are attempting to raise children in SF proper, where this anecdote takes place, but walking into a safeway parking lot and having to dodge used needles is not what I would call high quality of life.
Although in all fairness, I am not aware of the drug situation in other parts of the country.
There are plenty of families in SF proper. If you don't have kids, you understandably aren't spending much time in parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly neighborhoods.
Although in all fairness, I am not aware of the drug situation in other parts of the country.