Soon to be broke college student, where to live? (Denver: rentals, school)

[fumbles]

I'm going to be moving from Denver to KC to go to school this summer. I'm originally from the northland (but way out in the sticks) so I have a vague idea of the area, but I'm not too clear on where in the city is best for me to move to. I'm moving back mainly because CO is just too expensive to live here while also going to school (and tuition is fully half between MCC and UMKC vs Denver Community College and CU Denver). I have the choice of literally working every moment I'm not learning, just to afford the privilege of living in Colorado, or being able to live frugally in KC, work part time, get my studies done and still have plenty of time (and some cash) to live my life. So obviously, money is a big deal to me. I have some friends in the area so I'll probably have roommates. I'd like to be closer to the campus (I'll be going to Metro Community College for the first year at least), but I also want to be in proximity to night life. Where should I be looking for rentals?

[kcmo]

If you go to the Penn Valley campus of MCC and then on to UMKC, then living in the central city is a no brainer. There are so many areas, it would be difficult to narrow it down, but anywhere between the River Market and South Plaza would have a ton of great places to live that would be close to the campuses, and entertainment/younger people. You might try to live as close as possible to a major bus line though so you can save on car expenses, parking etc.

Broadway is really up and coming between 31st and Armour you could walk to Penn Valley CC from there. The Armour corridor on both sides of Main St is also gentrifying rapidly and is pretty close to PVCC and close to Main Street for transit to UMKC. That area is probably a little cheaper than areas like River Market and Westport.

[WiseOwlSaysHoot]

I agree with kcmo's post - your best bet is probably Midtown. That would put you near Penn Valley, UMKC, and nightlife at an affordable price.

You can find some decent studios as low as $500. For a 1 bed, you would more likely be looking at a minimum of $550-$600. However, if you have roommates, you will be able to get your share below that.