Which DSLR camera should I choose?

Have an interest in photography, but am most definitely in the amateur category. I'm trying to expand my knowledge and skill set and would like to upgrade to an inexpensive DSLR. Been doing a lot of research and narrowed it down to either a Canon Rebel T1i, or a Nikon D3100 simply because they are trusted brands, in my price range and I've read many favorable reviews for both. The problem is I'm having trouble deciding which I should go with. Any guidance is much appreciated.

Arright so let me make it simple for you…

1) Are you a nikon minded guy or a canon minded guy? -- Most Important
2) Nikon performance in low light & night time is better compared to the same range for canon
3) Nikon 3100 has autofocus even in VDO
4) Nikon has a more ''functional'' body. Which means you get to use features more easily

At the end of the day since you'r goin for a DSLR for the 1st time in your life i guess, i'd say get the Nikon D5000. Its just a bit costlier than the D3100 but is way better than many DSLRs… Think about it… But i'm a Nikon Guy… I had a D40x & now a D90… I might get something in the future i don't know really haha

I'm a Canon guy so would choose the Rebel. There's really not much between the two brands, but you get a bigger range of third party accessories for canon.

I bought this Canon T1i camera a year ago, and it's been wonderful. Granted, if you are a professional photographer, you may want something with more options, but if you're anyone else, it'll do fine.
I have literally used it every single day since I bought it (doing a 365 project), and it's never let me down. If I do have a complaint, it's that the battery life is a little short, especially if you're shooting in video mode.