Rooms/Shares on the Eastside or Seattle (Kirkland, Parkland: neighborhood, movie theaters)

[eccentricgal]

I'm a single female in my mid-twenties. I've been staying with family in Pierce County (near Parkland) for the past nine months. I just started a new job in Kirkland. I work odd hours, so traffic isn't always an issue, but it's still a long commute. Plus, the neighborhood I currently live in is pretty rough, and there isn't much to do nearby. I'd like to move closer to my workplace, hopefully by this fall.

I don't make very much money, so I'll be looking for a room/share situation. I can only afford about $500/month, not including utilities.

Is this move to the Eastside/Seattle possible, or am I stuck with this long commute for the long term?

Can anyone recommend an area? I'm familiar with much of Seattle and the Eastside, but I'm looking for more "insider" information/advice from those already living there.

Some of my preferences:

- Not living with my landlord
- Roommates aged 21-35
- Things to do nearby, such as decently nice yet affordable sports and karaoke bars, movie theaters, good restaurants, the usual activities that 20-somethings enjoy (I don't go to clubs, however)
- An area where I can make 20-somethings (or early 30s) friends fairly easily. Keep in mind that I'm a bit nerdy and socially awkward. Somewhere where I can meet fellow nerds without having to join a book club or D&D campaign would be really awesome.
- Preferably a Trader Joes or other natural food store nearby.

Also, does anyone have any advice on where to look for a room in a shared house? I know about Craigslist, but it seems like there's a lot of scams there. Any advice on avoiding the scams?