If you plan on using your bike for commuting check and see if you can park it inside. If not a good lock or maybe a folding bike or something along those likes might suit you.

I would probably shop used. I like the early to mid 90's rigid mountain bikes. They were heavy but pretty comfy and bomb proof. Change the tires and the can be pretty quick and agile. Except for a few models they weren't that flashy either. You can check shops that sell used bikes or craigslist. However if you don't know much about bikes I don't think craigslist is a good idea unless you have someone who does go with you.