What Are the Best (& Affordable) Parts of Town to Rent In?

Considering a move to Houston soon. The plan is to work 6-12 months and start grad school for an MS in stats. I'm looking at several different colleges. I'm not quite ready to apply yet; I'm finishing a few additional pre-reqs.

I'm uninformed on the housing situation in Houston. What areas should I look to move to as a single mid-late 20s guy? I don't have any pets. I am also open to short term leases, and to having roommates.

I'm not really sure what to expect and am not sure how much I'm making. But I hope to pay $1,000 to $1,400/mo? Budget is flexible, but I am not looking for upscale.