I live in Astoria and prices have definitely risen in recent years (I think as people get priced out of Brooklyn and come here). But it is a nice neighborhood and you could find something for less than you are paying now. You could take the N/Q and make an easy transfer to the 7 at Queensboro Plaza.
I also agree that Sunnyside is a great neighborhood. We have friends that live there. I've always found the 7 train to be pretty quick and reliable. If you search in the area by the 74th/Roosevelt Ave stop on the 7 (not sure if that's technically Woodside or JH), you could take the E train to Lex and 53rd. Only about 10 blocks from GCT. The E runs express from 74th to Queens Plaza. As well as have the option of the 7, F,M, & R trains for non-work related travel....and buses to LGA.
Also, biking to midtown from Queens is not too difficult. There are more and more lanes and I believe Citibike will have a station in the Queens Plaza area soon. I think you could get to the GCT area from Sunnyside in 35-40 mins by bike, which would save you metro card fare. Also, I find that the price of groceries, etc is cheaper here than in Manhattan. So while you may have to invest in a metro card, you may see savings elsewhere. There's also a year round Greenmarket on Sundays in Jackson Heights. Sunnyside may have a seasonal one, not sure.
@iosetavi...I hear you about LIC....who's going to pay to live in all those places? I think there are more going in. I actually really like that area, but the high rises are a drag.
Queens rules! It's the best borough for food and diversity:)
RedMaple, Just curious what you didn't like about Sunnyside. The feel, the people? I'll agree that there are some areas that aren't as nice, but I think it's mostly just a working class neighborhood. I've never felt unsafe there.