Been here a long time tho' not native.
north area is very good: A little 'burb feeling, safe, near light rail, here's link: http://www.ci.baltimore.md.us/neighborhoods/north.html
central area is also good: more city-like, near light rail and inner harbor, link:
http://www.ci.baltimore.md.us/neighb...s/central.html
Other areas to think about: patterson park: young, inexpensive, but starting to increase, Federal Hill Young proffessional, expensive but somewhat affordable, Caton andFells point= Same as Federal hill.
Overall Balto is decent, big enough for some culture with much smaller crowds. Thursday free outdoor live concerts at mt Vernon put on by the local university radio(U of Towson:WTMD)
I wouldn't live in Timonium, Cockesville etc....total suburban feel, single fam homes or VERY large ugly apt. complexes. Towson(nearby) is better but pricey and preppy.
Welcome to our city, Charlie