Ah, I can't believe just casually venting on XiaoHongShu would strike such a chord! Got suggestions pouring in, people rallying up, even got roommates to share and loads of solid housing info. Thanks a bunch to all you wonderful folks for the help.
Man, housing next year is no joke, either it's pricey or maybe my budget's just low. Been feeling drained on this house-hunting journey, haha. But after careful consideration these days, finally found the one I adore. Sure, it's like a good twenty minutes away from the city, but for five hundred bucks, I'm genuinely content. Thanks again to all you lovely souls (to those still looking for roomies or haven't found a place yet, I'll sort it out in a couple of days and hook you up, hope it helps) 🙏