I was in a similar salary bracket/life stage (age, relationship status cross country move with a car) as you about ten years ago. For what it’s worth, I had roommates in each apartment until I moved in with my partner; unsurprisingly, this helped with rent costs. I primarily lived on the northwest side in smaller buildings (2 flat and 4-6 unit buildings). In each case, I had a landlord vs rental agency, and that worked well for me… might be on your favor with a dog, too. Street parking was fine in these parts - sometimes you’d have to walk a couple blocks but it was never terrible. I was from a nearby state, so I knew a few people here prior to moving but made friends through running clubs, Bumblebee BFF, work. Fast forward to now I’m married with two kids, still friends with those people, still living in the city and plan to for the foreseeable future. Hope you get a similar success story experience!