Working in Burlington, where to live? (Waltham, Peabody: apartment complexes, rental, neighborhood)

[cchaplin]

I have a potential job opportunity in Burlington and was wondering what are some areas I might be able to rent a cheapish apartment.
Looking at a budget of about 700-950 a month. Obviously I'd prefer the cheaper options but will consider the higher end of the range for better local amenities so to speak. Here's what I'm hoping for

-decent to good neighborhood: I normally wouldn't worry about this, but I'm hoping to start a family soon.
-30 minute drive to burlington at the maximum
-nightlife isn't a necessity at all, I'm a homebody
-good local shops would be nice.

Thanks for your help!

[goyguy]

Burlington itself is worth considering - lotsa rental properties but mostly in apartment complexes. Adjoining Woburn and nearby Arlington are also good. You also could check out Waltham and Peabody, both within about a half-hour drive on 128, and Melrose along I-93 between 128 and the city. You might as well stay on the inexpensive side as far as rental costs are concerned until there's a school-ready child under your roof. None of these communities have school systems that are all that great (or all that bad.) Melrose and Arlington would be the best of the bunch where academics are concerned.