Ottawa native / recent grad, looking for a studio downtown.. do I need a reality check

Hello!
I just got a job in Toronto in the east end and I've been looking for a studio apartment under $1700 in the area surrounding King St E/the downtown core. I've found a few but obviously they're in suspicious locations (South Parkdale, 103-105 West Lodge.... not looking good).

I also can't drive, so ideally I'd like for my commute to be less than an hour. I've been looking everywhere from Junction to the East York/Danforth area.

I was wondering if there are any realtors that specialize in that sort of housing or if it's even feasible - I called a realtor just now and he basically said if I want anything remotely safe/amenable downtown I have to be willing to spend $2300+. Is this true? Was that a necessary reality check or should I look for a new realtor?