First off, congrats on the job. I moved here for a job just last year and it sounds like we're pretty similar. Meeting people is hard here sometimes, but you just have to put yourself out there. I do RI Sports Club intramurals and have had some success there meeting local friends.

As for where to live, u/feelsmagical's map is absolutely perfect. Props to him/her.

As a 25-30 y/o male, I find the East Side just plain nicer. I have no problem when my parents visit or when my girlfriend's parents visit. In fact, I definitely scored some brownie points with the latter. The East Side is just so beautiful in some parts. I love going for runs/walks around my neighborhood. Can't say the same about the West Side, but if you're going for the humble apartment, hipster fixy-bike ride to semi-expensive speak-easy-cocktail-type places, the West Side has the East Side beat. (also, I meant no offense with that long, overly specific hipster comment. totally cool if that's your thing)

I think wherever you choose, you're going to end up having one or two local walk-able bars and then you'll be Ubering it downtown most weekend nights.

I suggest you visit an apartment and walk from it to the local watering hole. (I live in the Upper Hope Street area so for me, it's Ivy Tavern. Great craft beer selection and very reasonably priced, large portion meals) One place I wish I looked harder into was the Wickenden area, basically the Lower East Side. I'm a big fan of Hot Club and Whiskey Republic; both a little college-y but with a more welcoming crowd than some downtown bars/clubs. I've met basically my entire friend group at those two places. And with the summer months coming, they'll be hard to beat.

Also, not sure exactly where you're working but if it's in NE Providence, it sounds like the East Side would give you the better commute.

PM me with any questions. Would be happy to help! And Good Luck!