Relocation advice? (New York, York: sublets, apartments, lease)

[the_wordgirl]

I'm planning on moving to New York from Denver sometime next summer or early fall (before Halloween). I have a cat, am open to any living situation (roommates, sublets, etc), and am pretty open in terms of where I'll live (even Jersey City would be okay). I would prefer something closer to the Jersey side of Manhattan since my boyfriend will be living in Jersey City. But the biggest issue for me is safety and transportation since I'm not bringing my car. I'm okay with small apartments, but would like something that's decently sized and quiet. I'll eventually end up going to grad school there, but probably not for at least six months. My professional background is in recruiting, but I have lots of experience in education, marketing, admin/customer service, and am pretty flexible. I also have challenging credit due to dealing with my mother's health crisis a few years ago. I plan to clean that up as much as possible, but it's pretty bleak to begin with. I have great references, both professionally and from current/past landlords in Colorado.

-I'm planning on saving up enough for at least eight months worth of expenses. Is that enough?

-I've heard a few things about rents being much higher in the summer. Is that true?

-I've heard agencies are good options for jobs. Do they actually have consistent work that would cover the bills?

-In terms of job hunting, would it be better to omit my current city so I'm not passed over before they actually do a phone interview? I know, as a recruiter in Denver, I've seen people picked over just because they aren't local. Is NY similar in this way?

-As far as neighborhoods go, which are better for early 30s people who are into the arts scene, but appreciate other things too?

I'm just starting my research, so ANY help is much appreciated. My plan has been to do a lot of research/footwork in terms of finding a job/apartment. Then, I'm planning a week-long trip about a month before to do non-stop interviews/showings until I at least secure a job, if not a decent place. If I'm unsuccessful, I'm prepared to sublet and then continue searching--but obviously would like to avoid that.

Thanks!
A

[Viralmd]

Check the sticky at the top of this board: Info on moving to NYC.

Rents are rents: you sign a lease and they're not higher in the summer. You're going to need to prove to your landlord that you earn 40x your monthly rent.

Until you know your salary, you won't be able to figure out where to live. Manhattan is expensive. And you won't have a problem giving up the car.