I live in a moderately dangerous neighborhood. How do I stay safe at night?

I like my neighborhood for the most part, save for the occasional mugging that happens on my street every other week or so. I live a 5 minute walk from the subway and don’t own a car, so when I go out at night to see my friends, as 23 year-olds tend to do, I end up having to endure some walks home from the subway after last call. Thank goodness nothing has happened yet, but I fear my day is yet to come where I’ll be approached at 2am by a not-so-friendly person. I try not to let it get to me, but can’t help feeling tense on my walks home.

Aside from “looking confident” (I do) and “blending in” (I do), not flashing around valuables (I don’t, and I’m too poor anyway) what else can I do to ease my tension AND limit the probability of myself getting mugged?

(Things I do not plan on doing: Moving, getting a car, carrying a weapon, and cease going out at night. Sorry, these just aren’t options. I like where I live, I don’t like weapons, I like going out, and I don’t have enough money for cars.)

For instance: I heard that walking in the middle of the street (as opposed to the sidewalk) late at night can reduce your chances of getting attacked. Anyone want to verify this, and/or add other tips that are similar to this fashion?