One guy finding a decent apartment still doesn't demonstrate that increasing density does much to solve problems. Also, I question your definition of affordable. $1500/month is 36% of the US median wage. People making less need to live somewhere too.

It also looks like you can find equivalent things in the Bay Area: http://sfbay.craigslist.org/search/apa?maxAsk=1500&bedrooms=...

I am definitely in favor of expanding public transit, though. I think that's a much better way to increase network effects.