I've posted this in a few similar threads but here are the cliffs. PM me if you have specific questions. I live in Arlington.
Get on the waiting list for the Barton House Apartments. Best deal in town. If you can't get there, consider Potomac Towers (2001 N. Adams St). The building is recently renovated and the apartments are nice for the money. One side of the building has an unbeatable view of DC.
You generally get what you pay for in Arl/Alex. Visit everything you're considering and have a look at the neighborhood. I personally wouldn't live on Columbia Pike west of Glebe Rd, but it's cheaper there. As far as Old Town Alexandria goes, the neighborhoods can change quickly, especially further north.
If you want a safer bet, narrow to North Arlington or the heart of Old Town. You'll pay more, but you'll be closer to the metro and generally in better neighborhoods. I realize I'm generalizing here, but if you're from out of town, these generalizations are useful until you've had time to settle in and get your own impressions of the area.
If you're commuting to Alexandria, your reverse routes are basically from points north. Arlington or DC. You can live much cheaper to the south, but since the morning rush goes north, you're F'ed.
The best advice I can give you if you're new to the area is to live inside the beltway and near the metro. Maybe spend a little more (if you can afford it) on a one year lease and consider whether you want to move further out.
Get on the waiting list for the Barton House Apartments. Best deal in town. If you can't get there, consider Potomac Towers (2001 N. Adams St). The building is recently renovated and the apartments are nice for the money. One side of the building has an unbeatable view of DC.
You generally get what you pay for in Arl/Alex. Visit everything you're considering and have a look at the neighborhood. I personally wouldn't live on Columbia Pike west of Glebe Rd, but it's cheaper there. As far as Old Town Alexandria goes, the neighborhoods can change quickly, especially further north.
If you want a safer bet, narrow to North Arlington or the heart of Old Town. You'll pay more, but you'll be closer to the metro and generally in better neighborhoods. I realize I'm generalizing here, but if you're from out of town, these generalizations are useful until you've had time to settle in and get your own impressions of the area.
If you're commuting to Alexandria, your reverse routes are basically from points north. Arlington or DC. You can live much cheaper to the south, but since the morning rush goes north, you're F'ed.
The best advice I can give you if you're new to the area is to live inside the beltway and near the metro. Maybe spend a little more (if you can afford it) on a one year lease and consider whether you want to move further out.