For a shadowrun character, I would prefer the flexibility of the lower lifestyle and more ready cash. For me, personally, though, I would take the high lifestyle option. The basic high lifestyle has more room, better security, a quiet neighborhood, more help (housekeeping, etc.) with day to day living - and the base lifestyle includes comforts and entertainment. Sure, the "allowance" is smaller (although 1,000 a month free and clear is still a decent sum), but conversely, more expenses (Netflix subscription, eating out at a restaurant, etc.) would be folded in under the base lifestyle cost.