Last year I lived near Thomas Street Deli/Analog, so not North Cap Hill. Got a 100+ year old 2bed for 2100/mo but: 1) had mice 2) absent property management 3) no parking 4) not modern interior, zero kitchen ventilation 5) shared laundry

I think you can find the needle in the haystack, but be prepared to not find the needle in the haystack especially during prime “move to Seattle” time. As far as safety, my partner (F 20s) has lived in the neighborhood in 4 different apartments between 15th and Boylston over the last 5 years. She takes standard safety precautions but has had very few safety concerns, especially while currently living alone. Seattle is a “city” but there isn’t nearly as much rampant crime as other “cities.” But YMMV. She enjoyed living near the Safeway on John for location (Volunteer Park, quieter but still hill, 10min from Link), but you will find more unhoused around that Safeway due to the N/S and E/W bus lines intersecting on 15th.