Timonium is only 15-20 minutes outside of the city and easily accesible via light-rail and I-83. Housing can be a little expensive (from what I hear, and in comparison to Texas.) Crime, you'll be just fine in Timonium, I live in the city and I have had my share of car break ins. It definitely seems like there are a lot of people on bikes here, lots of trails if you don't like city riding, etc etc. MASS TRANSIT SUCKS (but I hear there are lots of plans to make it better.) And regarding night life, well it depends on what you like! I know other people will chime in, and most likely be much more informative than me, but I wanted to give you a little something!