To me, your post reads like list of reasons you are using to talk yourself out of living the city life you've never experienced. At first I read this post as purchasing a home and I would have put my support behind living in the county. But renting? I'd do a year or two in the city (plenty of suggestions where in this thread), experience the good and the bad, then figure out what you want to do when the time feels right.

FYI, I moved out of downtown (fed hill) in my late 20's for some of the reasons you mentioned. Knew a kid was on the way, wanted a large yard, dog, room to host, etc. I'd lived in the city for 6+ years though, and got to experience a lot of great times in my mid 20's. We made the move to Arbutus (which I've recommended in the past) and are now looking to upsize yet again. Arbutus/Catonsville/Ellicott City are all areas that I'd recommend looking at if you decide against city life.