Sharing an apartment is your best bet. Studios can be pretty expensive even in Md. and Northern Virginia.  I think you shouldn't worry too much about closeness to the metro. My experience with buses in Alexandria (and NOVA in general) isn't bad at all. I share a two bedroom for real cheap and take a bus + metro (Pentagon station) to Foggy Bottom. Some of my Nepali friends live in Rockville and work downtown. They say it is very affordable,convenient, and an easy commute to work. Check Craigslist. That's how most newcomers find housing in the area. Good Luck!