UES/UWS Rentals- $2500

I was reading the earlier thread on apartments on the UES or UWS for $3,500. I am in a similar situation but looking to spend a but less- I was thinking $2200-2600 but after browsing online it seems there is a sweetspot around $2600 or so where things get much nicer. Two questions, for which I would appreciate your comments: 1. Is there a sweetspot at which value gets greater for the price, or is it something I'm imagining? 2. Any suggestions for nice rental buildings that meet this price range? A doorman would be great, but it's definitely not something I'd be obsessed with. Thanks very much in advance.