I have a friend (single) who got a 1 bedroom apt at the pearl.
The others (married) who joined in the past year all went to Mansoura or Ain Khalid Gate. Mostly to the first one!
Pearl or West Bay is the place to be. Unfortunately looks like there aren't many school choices nearby for those with little ones.
If you're going to a fleet with many turnarounds, living in the Pearl may be an issue because of daily jams. Can't remember if West Bay is too far from the airport.