I should have given a little more info about Jersey City Heights-- it was its own city until the late 1800s, and it is pretty geographically separated from the rest of JC--it's up on a cliff overlooking Hoboken. It's easy to get to journal square or Hoboken. I love Central Ave, which is the local main street. It is extremely walkable with many small businesses and family owned restaurants. We are moving out of a beautiful old townhouse that is divided into two units. I personally prefer the older buildings to the new "luxury" construction. The basement one br unit in our building was rented for 1200/month, so I think you should be able to find a nicer, non-basement 1br within your price range.