Austin, TX: What are some of the best ways to live in and around the city?

. . .when you make very little money, know no one in town, and are of a sensitive disposition?

I’m looking for a minimalistic studio or single-bedroom apartment in or around Austin, $300–475/m (optimism), not including utilities, with a bus route nearby.

I’m not too picky about the location as I’ll be working from home, but I’d like a place that has a distinctly not-crimey feel. An unsnobby-artistic-hippyish community vibe would be great.

I’d rather not have to depend upon a roommate(s) that I don’t know, but I’m not completely opposed to the idea. Is it still the best way to go even when all you need is the minimum? I’ve gotten great deals on apartments before, but never in a large city. I’d like to at least try renting a place on my own to start out with anyway.

These apartment listings websites annoy me greatly and I only have a couple of connections in the area; they aren’t very knowledgeable. I’ll be asking/looking around when I visit, and I’m making a list of specific places to check out. I’d love to hear any experiences you have to share. Advice is greatly appreciated.