South of Tyne- Where to live?

[OsakaExile]

Reet the SMB, I am looking for a bit of help.

Next year it looks like I will be coming home. I will probably be working in the Newcastle area and looking to move close by. I was thinking of south of the river as its a bit cheaper. Unfortunately, I know sweet FA about the area so can people tell me which places are decent?

I dont drive, much to my shame so I need somewhere with good buses/metro links.

I wont be able to afford much but hopefully I can avoid a complete dive.

Any help is appreciated.