It really depends where on Ellis. The Tenderloin area, between Mason and Polk on Ellis, is still scary, despite it's more "trendy" reputation lately. Creepy, persistent hobo lurkers, people taking a crap on your stoop (if not also sleeping there), no parking, car break-ins even if you can park. If you are a woman I would not recommend living there, if you're a tough-looking guy who doesn't have a car (or who has a condo with a garage), it might be worth the convenient location. Also, it's not a cute "Sesame Street" type neighborhood--pretty much just laundromats, corner stores, Thai food and massage parlors--check out how close grocery stores, coffee, etc., are.
