I can't decide what schools to apply to that are "in-between" longshots and safety schools. Help?

Given your interests in poli sci and economics, you should consider George Washington U. and American U. in Washington, D.C. Both schools are urban, liberal and don't emphasize sports, parties and frats. (Basketball is popular at GWU, but the school doesn't have a football team.) You'll find lots of people there who share your poli sci interests and you'll be positioned to take advantage of internship and volunteer activities related to poli sci and economics. There's also a lot of theater in the D.C. area, so you can stay connected to that interest, too. GW is right downtown near the White House, but doesn't have much of a campus. AU is further out in D.C. in a more suburban-type setting, but both schools are connected to the subway line, so you can easily get all over town. You might consider Georgetown as well, although it's harder to get into than GW or AU.