Apartment Hunting (Bellevue, Millvale, Lincoln: best neighborhoods, apartments, to rent)

[StillnewtotheBurgh]

I have been looking for a new place for a few weeks, (moved to the Burgh in late 06) and am overwhelmed by all of the 'choices' in terms of housing and neighborhoods. 3 areas that caught my eye this week are Bellevue, Airport/Moon/Robinson area, and Millvale. Currently residing in McCandless.

Airport area, I like because of all of the 'newness' of the area, plus like the shopping and close to the airport of course. Not a real bad commute but a bit farther than I'd like to go ( i work downtown).

I like Bellevue because of its proximity to downtown and the airport area, thats about it. Plus have heard good things about it, but am not quite convinced I want to move there.

Millvale, hmm....good location for commute to downtown, but have not heard anything good about this area, from mostly older (50+) adults. Any comments or comparisions to other parts of town? How is area in terms of problems (drugs, crime, problem teenagers, traffic, etc.) and is it ok for minority families or young professionals?

any suggestions on other areas that are ok for commuting and have reasonable rents.

thanks

[NewBurg]

If you're looking for a place to rent and commute downtown, I would think the best options would be Shadyside and Squirrel Hill. In my opinion, they're the best neighborhoods in or around the city. Houses are very expensive in both areas, but I know of people who have gotten apartments in both neighborhoods for a surprisingly low rent.
If you are set on the 3 neighborhoods that you mentioned, I think the best choice by far is Bellevue.

[mountainlove]

I don't know if you're still on the hunt out there, but I would highly recommend Millvale (where I live). If you work downtown, there is regular bus service (save on driving and downtown parking), the best French Bakery in the county, wonderful music at Mr.Smalls, the original Pamela's Restaurant at the Lincoln Pharmacy, a great Riverfront Park with trails connecting to the North Shore, and beyond! All of this at a ridiculously affordable price.

Note: If you think Shadyside is great, you will not like some of the real, honest and gritty aspects of the neighborhood. Personally, I love it! There are some really great things happening there right now between the new, old school lighting throughout downtown, blighted buildings being torn down, and a planned park, and library in the heart of town. It won't be long until the success of Lawrenceville is spilling across the bridge to this town.