Cheap and Safe Apartments in Columbus (Cleveland, Cincinnati: apartment complexes, rent, condo)

[GoBucks0477]

Looks like I will be relocating to Columbus, a city I have spent a lot of time in and really enjoy!

However, I could use the advice of the experts (yourselves!).

It's just me, and I'm open to a One Bedroom or Studio (Studio is 100% fine if cheaper!).

I see a lot of cheaper stuff around Hilltop and the Cleveland Ave area. Not being a COMPLETE newbie, I know those aren't the best of areas.

There are three major priorities for me:

1) Price - Everything I find that's looked decent so far has been $600 and up for a ONE BEDROOM. Really don't want to pay that much!

2) Safety - Don't want to worry about my car or apartment being targeted.

3) Location - I will be working off 23/High St just NORTH of 270, so the Worthington / Polaris / Lewis Center area. Would love to stay as close to this area as possible for the commute, but I also understand the cost part...

. Where is you current location and environment?
The Kenwood area of Cincinnati, basically the Polaris-ish part. Not needing the same quality, obviously.

. Are you looking for similar in Columbus or a change?
The nicer the better, but safety and cost (contradictory, I know) are the biggest focus.

. Where will your work location be?
23/High St just NORTH of 270 in the Worthington / Polaris / Lewis Center area.

. Maximum commute time desired?
As short as humanly possible.

. What is you budget for housing?
I really can't go much past the $600 a month range, but I really really would love less than that.

. Rent or buy?
Rent

. Type (Apt., Condo, Single Family)
Don't care, likely Studio or 1 BR apt

. Size (Approx. Sq. Ft., # Bedrooms & Baths)
Don't care, likely Studio or 1 BR apt

I don't need you to do the research (specific apartment complexes, etc), I will do that. If you have an idea of one to share, please do! I'm more looking for target areas to research.

Thank you for your help!!!

[Natural510]

There don't seem to be many studio apartments in Columbus, off-campus wise. Most seem to be built or converted with at least 1BR, and from what I've seen on Craigslist, go for more than $600 (which is pretty low for a 1BR in any city outside "the hood"). If you don't want to do the roommate thing, your options may be to either settle for a less-desirable neighborhood or move to a small town outside of Columbus and commute.