Same here, SLU. I'm currently in Seattle now looking for a place to live. Not much luck. Places are more expensive, smaller, and older compared to Dallas.
Good luck on your first day. Contact me so we can meet up sometime.
At least you've gotten an early start on the apartment hunt. I've heard similar things about the rents (I'm coming from a $1/square foot loft in Atlanta, so I'm quite certain I'm in for a shock). I guess I'll find out when I get there. Right now I'm still in Atlanta tying up loose ends; I get to Seattle on Sunday afternoon.
Good luck to you as well. I'll definitely get in touch once I'm in town.
Good luck on your first day. Contact me so we can meet up sometime.