Thank you all for all the replies. They have already arranged for an interview next week via video link, so I am excited and a little freaked at how fast this is all progressing.

It appears that a car will be absolutely necessary if I am going to commute to Northbrook. My job does allow working from home a 1-2 days a week, but even then, I would like to use public transportation (to work) as an option, not as a necessity. The only thing that really annoys me is that most apartments appear to charge extra for a parking space.

Thank you for all the suggestions. Lakeview is kinda out at the moment. Edgewater, Evanston, or perhaps Logan Square seems more likely. Are there "amenities" I should look for in an apartment that should be standard? Water of course, but some advertise heat and A/C included? (something not common in Phoenix). Is first and last month's rent common (plus security)? Not so in PHX, so I ask.

And yes, sadly, it appears that if I make the move, I will be making day trips to IN for cigarettes. Should I buy everything while I am there? (Food, liquor, etc.)

I do appreciate the advice regarding "gay" life. I almost feel the need to defend the need for close bars.

It isn't that I spend all my time in bars, but so much of gay culture revolves around bars (even if you don't drink and all you are going to is poetry readings), it is important, and for the person who asked - I am 38, "ancient" in gay years, so I'm not going out every weekend.

A question I am curious about is street parking. A fair number of apartments say street parking available. From my time in Denver, I would say that is a pipe dream, but wanted to get opinions.

It is like you read my mind ...

My job (while I do ... enjoy/tolerate it) is very run of the mill. Financial analyst in healthcare/employee benefits. I'm sure there are other opportunities out there.