[Gregg_13]

I will be graduating from college in May 2013 and I start my job in early June. I will be 22 years old when I start my job. I will be debt free and making around $49,000 a year after taxes. This will give me a budget around $3,750 a month. I've been looking into downtown apartments because I want an urban setting, as well as bars and restaurants within walking distance. Also, I would like a good nightlife and a younger crowd. I wanted to get some opinions on the apartments in downtown Hartford and the cost of living.

From what I’ve looked at online, I really like Trumbull on the Park. It seems to have a great location but its cost is a bit steeper than places like Bushnell on the Park and Union Place. I would prefer a 1 Bedroom apartment as opposed to a studio. On apartmentguide.com it lists rent for a 1 Bedroom at Trumbull from a range of $1125-$1625 a month. An apartment around the lower spectrum seems reasonable to me. Let’s say I find one for $1300 a month. That will leave $2,450 left for bills (cable and internet, electric, car insurance (would this still be steep if the apartment has a parking garage), car lease (will be looking at around $200 a month), cell phone, possibly gas (may be included in rent)), as well as groceries, bars, and gas for the car. Are all the above expenses reasonable on a $2,450 budget after rent? Would it make more sense to get a studio in the $1050-1175 price range? Also, how early would I need to sign a lease to ensure getting an apartment at Trumbull on the Park? Does anyone think I should rethink my rent budget based on the monthly budget I mentioned earlier? Also, are there any downtown apartments people would recommend over Trumbull that would be within my budget? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[hartford_renter]

What tax rate do you plan on paying?

When I made that much I took home about 3000$ per month.

[mlassoff]

I don't think there is anyway you'll be bringing home that much. I think about $3000 a month is a much more reasonable number.

Based on that, you should spend about $1,000 on housing. You don't want to be house poor-- especially if you want to live an active urban lifestyle. Eating out, going drinking, etc., is expensive. I think it would make more sense to get a studio in your situation-- especially since it sounds like you won't be spending much time at home.

[Stylo]

I'd MUCH rather be in West Hartford center than downtown Hartford for bars, nightlife, restaurants.

Maybe here: http://www.bluebacksquare.com/apartments/

[mikelizard860]

Originally Posted by Stylo

I'd MUCH rather be in West Hartford center than downtown Hartford for bars, nightlife, restaurants.

Maybe here: Blue Back Square | Live Here | Apartment

Yeah West Hartford is where it's at. There's nothing in Hartford. It's the ultimate commuter city. Anyone driving by would think it's a metropolis though with all those office tower buildings!

[Gregg_13]

I'm planning on paying about 30% on taxes. I'm making $64,000 before taxes. That's where my $49,000 after taxes came from. I've talked to people who have lived downtown and loved it. That's why I'm interested in living downtown. I've heard good things about West Hartford as well. Why do you prefer West Hartford nightlife compared to downtown?

[Gregg_13]

I meant to say I'd be making $45,000 after taxes*

[MikefromCT]

I don't think living in downtown Hartford would be bad for a young professional. The areas you're looking are fine. If you were looking at rentals north of downtown like on Albany Ave or north of it, then I'd say no. Alot of people who prefer WH over Hartford are a bit older and, like myself, find there's more of an adult crowd there (though many post-college people live here). I also feel there's more of a neighborhood feel in WH than Hartford. That being said, downtown Hartford does have plenty of nightlife and culture to offer. I personally don't spend much time there, but I wouldn't discourage someone from hanging out there or even living there. Definitely visit the area and see for yourself before you decide - alot will depend on your point of view as far as what works and what doesn't. Best of luck!

[Stylo]

Hartford downtown empties out a lot at night. The nightlife is acceptable at best. There are some good restaurants, but not a ton.

West Hartford, on the other hand, has by far the best restaurant scene in the Hartford area, and plenty of bars to choose from. It's even more walkable in a lot of ways than downtown Hartford. It's just a nicer city in general.

Stamford, New Haven, West Hartford all have lively downtowns. Hartford is kinda dead in comparison. It has some great qualities (the Wadsworth museum, theater, etc), but lacks vibrancy.

[JayCT]

The young professionals in my office that make about what you make live either downtown or in West Hartford. It depends what type of area you like: urban, suburban, rural. Your choice. Jay