Where should a 19yr old live? (Richmond, Hampton: apartments, house, college)

[in search of...]

Long story short: So my parents are cutting me off completely since I'm dropping out of college (taking a year off, really) and they want me out of the house by August. I currently live in Lynchburg, VA and hate it. There's no opportunity here whatsoever and I'm ready to experience a BIGGER city.

But anyway, I'm considering Richmond as a potential start to living on my own. I've been craigslisting/googling apartments nonstop but that doesn't explain the area to me at all..

So I joined this forum!

I'm looking for a cheap (less than 500?) one bedroom. In a decent part of the city that's somewhat safe and near a gym. My grandma lives near the stadium/Cary Town and I like that area a lot...but looking at the prices on craigs/google it's way too expensive, even if I were to find a roommate. I also like the Short Pump area, but that's far more expensive than Cary Town it seems. It'd be nice to live near other college-aged people as well.

So if you could recommend an area/apartments for me to live, places/areas to avoid, and call center/decent jobs that may be hiring/are good to work at then please do!

Thanks!

Oh I'm also considering moving to Hampton Roads and Raleigh/Durham, so if you could shed some insight on those areas then please do, thanks!

[jkang]

Fan is cool area, but I don't think you'll find a 1BR for $500. You might be able to share an apartment with someone else for that or less.

[richmondpics]

Oregon Hill maybe with a roommate?

[Nebat]

I would stick to the areas close to VCU for the younger age groups, but rents will be higher. I honestly can't think of anywhere that cheap unless it's the ghetto. Could you live with your grandmother, since she's already in the area you like. It's not the ideal situation for a young person I know, but it might get you in the door so to speak until you can find a roommate or a place of your own. Good luck!