Paris- staying in the 18th arrondissement?

I would not stay in this area the first time to Paris. Being young women who want to go out at night I don't think this area -- which is partially a red-light district -- will be interesting (or very hip) to you. But check it out when you are there for future reference. There are areas of the Montmartre that are nice and where I would rent a place, but you have to know where they're located. As others have said chose a more central area. Montparnasse, Marais, Latin Quarter, Canal St. Martin, St. Germain des Pres, the 9th is good too -- I think these would all be better, safer, more convenient -- though undoubtedly cost a bit more.

The area in and around Boulevard de Clichy (especially to the south)in Montmartre is the red light district of Paris.

Would you want to live in the red light district of Dallas?

Last June I spent just one day in this area, and I was solicited and hastled several times. The central areas of Paris, either left bank or right bank are not like that.

Be safe. Choose something else!

Bon Voyage.

You would probably enjoy something in the Latin Quarter for good night life. Check out vacationinparis.com 5th arrondissement. The 6th is also good.

I would agree with the others....just south of the Seine in either the 5th, 6th or 7th would make you closer to much of what you want to see and safer.

The Marais district, in the 4th I beleive (someone correct me if I'm wrong), just north of the Seine, is another growing area with lots to do.

I've been to Paris many times, but have never stayed in the 18th. I have walked around parts of that area and found it varied and interesting. I'll be renting an apartment near the bottom of the funicular for a few days in April. Friends stayed in an apartment in that neighborhood a couple of years ago and liked it. I give myself leeway to enjoy it or hate it, but I think it will at least be interesting.

The Montmarte area around Sacre Coeur, Place du Tetre, etc is far up the hill from Boulevard Clichy and the red light district. It's fine. The Rue Abbesses is below and has wonderful cafes and markets.

I agree with Doug. My first trip to Paris we stayed at Hotel Tim which is very close to the top of Montmartre. My sister and I (we are in our sixties) wandered all over that area at night. Up near Place du Tertre there are many lively bistros you would enjoy. However lower down in Pigalle at Moulin Rouge every store is a XXXX sex shop.
We have since chosen to stay in the St Germain area around Le Deux Margots.. absolutely safe and also a busy place at night. Wherever you choose to stay I'm sure you will absolutely LOVE Paris..ENJOY

You might enjoy the area around the Oberkampf metro, as there are a lot of cafes and bars there, and rents will be a little less than Latin Qtr, for instance.
http://wikitravel.org/en/Paris/Oberkampf

As a student recently back from study abroad in Paris I would suggest staying in the latin quarter or in the Marais both are great areas.

We have stayed at the Hotel Eugenie in the Latin Quarter a few times, and found that to be a good location with many cafes and nightspots.

I dont think that Pigalle is dangerous, so much as seedy and not the best side of Paris to see and stay in.
That said, I find its worth it to spend a little more to stay in a more interesting neighborhood. I'm guessing if you're renting an apt then you'll be there longer than the average tourist. Since that's the case, I would highly recommend the Marais. I always stay there because it has this great village feel to it. If you go somewhere more than once, chances are you'll see the local regulars and I think that really gives a nice feel to the trip, like you're a part of French life, not just observing it.
The Marais is also a very nice area at night. Its relatively quiet but there are plenty of places open late. Plus, I love the location. Its within walking distance to a lot of sights and the Hotel de Ville Metro stop has a couple lines so you can get anywhere in the city in a snap.

I absolutely recommend an apartment. We (me,husband and 20-year-old daughter) just spent 10 days in was in the heart of things and close to the metro to explore other areas. I suggest, as others have, to stay in the 5th or 6th. Better to be safe than sorry...