Scrimp&Save,
I am much older then you, but I am single (divorced, no kids) and I purchased an older but renovated townhouse in the city. Very urban environment. I can walk to lots of restaurants, the grocery store, shops, etc. I can hop a bus or get a cab to take me into the heart of downtown to the stadiums for football and baseball games, theaters, comedy shows etc
I love my home. Hardwood floors, high ceilings, exposed brick, rooftop deck (very cool). It has a lot of the charm of an older home but with all the modern amenities. Very low maintenance and no HOA fees.
Can I hear my neighbors on both sides of me? Once in a while. But the great thing about living here is that I know all of my neighbors. It gives me a great sense of comfort and security to know that if I have an emergency, they will help me in a hearbeat. We get each other's mail when on vacation, we gather on our front "stoops" in the summer to chat, we have block parties and potluck dinners. My block ranges from young singles, to young married couples, to middleagers (like me) to retired folks. We all get along and respect each other.
I exercise my green thumb by container gardening, and have a lovely back courtyard with climbing roses and even a small veggie garden. It's like a little oasis in the middle of the city. But I don't have any grass to cut
The only cons are: my property taxes are higher then in the county, and street parking. But most of the time I don't even move my car all weekend, I have so much to do in my own neighborhood.
I guess I just wanted to give you a snapshot of how urban living can be. It's not for everyone, but for a young professional like you, it can really be a very fun lifestyle. Whatever you eventually decide, take your time and have fun looking!