Should I just give up on trying to find an apartment?

Nooope, didn't get an apartment till like 3/4 months of moving out ,lived in 3 bed and breakfast till I got my apartment, was up&downs but...was still away from family so didn't mind, maybe do that till u get one

I hope you find one soon

https://www.frugalforless.com/cheap-housing-options/ I really think rent control needs to affect many rentals. Also, petition your city to allow tiny homes zoned as homes & ADUs as primary homes.

I did hear your parents basement is lit 😣

Are they too expensive?

No