Where is the best place to live in Las Vegas?

I am moving to LV this fall for 3 months and am looking for a place to live. I am considering extended stay hotels or apartments with short term leasing options, but don't want anything too pricey (between $450-$650... though I assume the hotels would be more). I will be working at the MGM Grand and need some place reasonably close, but also safe. I was looking at apartments/hotels around UNLV, but have heard it is an unsafe area. Any suggestions would be appreciated! Thanks!