Working in Rockville, but Where to Live? (Baltimore, Columbia: apartment complex, living in)

[jaykf014]

I'm a single 23 yr old male working in Rockville in the IT industry and currently living in Carroll County. My work schedule is flexible, and right now I work 7am-3pm to avoid traffic. I will be seeking an apartment of my own to stay later this year. I can only afford $1,100 max rent. I was considering...

Frederick - Since there is at least one apartment complex I have already visited and am very impressed with, plus a straight shot down I-270. However there may not be much to do there, similarly to Carroll County. Filled with families, not too many people my age I'm expecting.

Columbia - Has a city feel to it, has plenty of shops and the mall, and is either close to or easily accessible to every city (Baltimore, DC, Annapolis, and even Frederick). But the commute will be stretched to the my limits of 1 hour I expect. However if there are traffic problems, there should be a million ways to get to and from work.

Alexandra/Arlington - Haven't spent much time here, but I do like it. Also filled with young singles, plenty to do, easy access to the city. But I do not know what the commute is like around I-495 to I-270. I also did not expect to find anything in my price range, but I have actually found a couple on the internet surprisingly.

Does anyone have any ideas of where may be the best place to go is for someone in my position? Does anyone have information on the commute times from Alexandria to Rockville? Thanks all. This is a great forum.