Attending New England Law, Looking for Housing (Boston, Cambridge: neighborhoods, school)

[lwhynotl]

Hi all, first time post though ive used the forum many times before,

I am starting at New England School of Law on Stuart St. in August and am currently looking for places to live. I spent most of the weekend in Boston researching and checking out some neighborhoods but I'm wondering what the experts out there think!

I can deal with a daily commute of up to 30 minutes, but any more than that will begin to wear on me. I can spend up to 1000 per month including utilities, but if I'm spending the money I want to get some space in return. I definitely want a night life but one that is centered more around bars and a few beers than techno-pumping clubs.

I looked at the downtown neighborhoods - Back Bay, South End, Beacon Hill - but they are all (way) too expensive considering what you get for your money.

I spent friday night with a friend at his place in Allston and it (both the place and the people) immediately reminded me of undergrad, which is definitely not the atmosphere that I am looking for.

I think that I've essentially settled on Brookline vs. Cambridge but I can't really tell how they are different without spending more time. Also, I've heard Jamaica Plain mentioned but dont really know much about it

Thoughts and/or suggestions are appreciated!

Thanks!