[schoolsofthought]

Hello

Recent MS grad and just got a job in Shelton. However, I am looking to live in New Haven. I'm 26, single, and am originally from LA...so need for the 'burbs. It's possible I'll regret the traffic by commuting from NH to Shelton, but I require fun after work, you know? I do want to consider heavy traffic areas as much as possible while living in NH too.

After reading some threads here and getting some quick advice from others, it seems like the best places in NH are East Rock, West Rock, and Westville. I think that's in order, too.
I would like to get a 1br apt under $1200 in the areas I mentioned, but that's a tough order considering the locations and the fact that I need something in mid-September.

Anyways, does anyone else have any other suggestions of places to live considering my situation/status? I thought living near Edgewood Park would've been nice, but I hear that would be a bit risky unless. Although a guy posted on one thread:

"Other areas you should look at are Lower Westville and the area between Edgewood and Whalley Avenue, from West Park Ave to Norton Street."

Anyone else agree?

[nico7]

You will have the best access to the city culture, fun, and nightlife if you live near the New Haven Green. There are many places on Chapel St., some on Crown St., and a few on High St. Keep in mind there are tons of college kids living in that area too. Parking can be a nightmare, but you can pay for a spot in one of the garages.

For starters, maybe look at The Taft (Chapel St and College St) and Centerpointe (Chapel St. and Church St.).

[inetlom]

No other suggestions as I think the best areas have already been covered, but it shouldn't be a problem for you to find a 1 bedroom apartment for under $1200 in East Rock. The nightlife is indeed better downtown, but apartments will be more expensive - if you're willing to go for a studio, you might have some luck.

[schoolsofthought]

What do you guys think of places around Tilton St? I think that's a part of Dixwell and I think someone said to avoid that area.

[AnonChick]

That's the Science Park area; pockets of reasonable surrounded by a thin layer of lousy. That's the biggest problem with that area. You could probably live IN it, but you wouldn't wanna park your car near it, or walk out of it at night. Daytime's another matter entirely, I worked at Science Park and used to walk the whole area during my lunch hour. Never had a moment's trouble and some of the old houses there actually looked well kept and nicely landscaped. But no, I wouldn't want to have to walk around there at night, and I'd worry about my car while I was safely behind my door.

[schoolsofthought]

Oh yea and I forgot to ask about Wooster area. I've found some interesting apartments there, but I'm not sure if it's a good thing that Little Italy is located there too.

[Babydoll9983]

I just moved to Edgewood Park area near Fountain St and I love it. It is close enough to ride my bicycle downtown in 12 minutes, it has a few good restaurants/bars and cafes for if you don't feel like dealing with 'downtown'. Parking is not too bad and I just got a very decent steal of a 1br for $850/mo.

Wooster Sq area is nice too, I've been walking around there at night and did not feel threatened, although we stayed in the well lit areas near the park/square itself. Little Italy is not like 'Goodfellas' or anything so I would recommend either. Wooster Sq has very unique buildings, a lot of converted factors to apts, so if you are into that I would recommend it. Plus it is walking distance to downtown nightlife.

Either neighborhood has a very good farmers market on the weekend and unique events that go on to support the community. Good Luck.

[nico7]

I would definitely recommend checking out the Wooster St. and Wooster Square area. The area immediately around Wooster St. is awesome for the food. It can be tricky driving through there if you don't know the streets. There is some crime as you head away from Wooster. I believe Grand Ave has appeared in the police blotter a few times. You also have a bunch of strip clubs around there, which tend to attract strip club audience members from all walks of life. But Wooster St. itself is great, and the neighborhood around has some very nice places as well. Not sure what the available housing options are ...