Ok, so I felt the need to chime in here. While I may not have the income level of others around me I typically commute in more affluent neighborhoods. Out here it is not uncommon to have the local "pro bike shop" team in full kit out on the streets at any time. People have come to expect that, so even in the suburban area that I live I find it to be quite safe. More often than not, if you ride defensively, and keep your head on a swivel, you should be quite safe in most situations. Knowledge is power.