Cheap New York City apartments? LOTS OF POINTS!!!!?

Hey, just wondering what is considered "cheap" in New York. I'm looking for like, a studio apartment. Something small and affordable for a "starving college girl". :) What is a price that's cheap but not gross and trashy? Oh, and what do you think is the best place in New York to settle down for a while for an artsy chick?? I'd like to go see shows and go to art museums and such. Anything?