Moving to NOVA/DC - advice!? (Arlington, Columbia: apartment complex, home, university)

[CWRFC Prop1]

I am currently living in Columbia, SC and recieved a job offer for a position in DC. I won't be moving for another 6-9 months but as a ridiculously anal planner I am already looking at areas in which to live when I move. I will be working downtown DC but plan to live in the Arlington (Ballston-Rosslyn) area so that I can play rugby with the NOVA Women's Rugby Team.

After looking at my current obligations and future income I estimate I will be able to pay about $1500/month (utilites included) if need be (hopefully less). A studio or efficiency will be fine. It is just me and no pets. Would an apartment complex or basement efficiency in a home be a better "deal"?

I would like to rely fully on public transportation and a zip car if possible.

I am assuming the commute will be approximately 30-40 mintues but I definitely do not want to exceed that.

There is also a women's rugby team in College Park, MD but it doesn't look easily accessible by train so I am concerned about making practice, but if it were easy I would definitely be willing to live in the district or in MD.

Any suggestions or comments about the best places to live or specific apartment complexes would be greatly appreciated.

[ecko_complex24]

Gates of ballston it's a garden apartment complex within walking distance to metro

[vermonter16]

Ballston is good, Clarendon, etc....zip cars are around and your commute to DC wouldn't be bad at all. Right around the corner.

[CWRFC Prop1]

Thanks for the responses! I will look into the Gates of Ballston complex!

[CaliTerp07]

I may be wrong, but I thought the College Park rugby team was a university affiliated program for students/employees on campus. I'd stick to Arlington.