If you want to be IN the city then you get more for your money on the upper east side. I wouldn t look any higher then 96-97th street. Try to avoid craig s list in looking for apartments because there are a lot of shady real estate people on there. I have found that the NY times is the best place to look and they have lots of nice no fee apartments. Plus you can see how long it s been listed so you know that if it s been on there a while it s either A) Crap or B) you can talk them down on the rent.Hoboken NJ is also a great place to live - you get more space for the money and there are great little shops and a nice nightlife. There s easy access to get to the city by bus, ferry or path train. This area is mostly young professionals.
Well, if you can afford Manhattan. You can also try the outer boroughs or New Jersey.Good luck