Recommendations on where to live in/around NYC?

Currently in my first year out of school working as an analyst downtown nyc and living in midtown in a tiny ass apartment (300sq feet) paying 1700 a month. My lease is up soon and trying to figure out a nicer/good spot to live. Thinking about maybe Hoboken or Jersey city and commute in or maybe Brooklyn. Would like to keep a similar price if possible. Anyone have any suggestions on apartment complexes or areas to look at? Thanks.