Any idea where I should go? (Tucson, Sierra Vista: rentals, home, live)

[FrozenWisconsinites2019]

Hey everyone! I could really use some help/advice. I have done a lot of research but when I think I narrow down a location, it ends up being a no-go.

My wife and I want to relocate to a different state. We honestly do not care where, as long as it hits our criteria.

This is what we're looking for:
* approximate population of around 10,000 or less (absolutely no more than 15,000)
* mild winters with little to no snow
* summers that aren't sweltering (low 90's are ok)
* no SEVERE storms
* LGBT friendly
* plenty of jobs for DSP's (working with mentally/behaviorally handicapped in group home setting)
* no breed specific bans (we have a pit bull mix)

Anyone know of ANYWHERE that meets these criteria?

[KurtAZ]

Could try Prescott? Probably a bit larger than your population requirements but I can't think of anywhere in AZ with a small population that would hit the "plenty of jobs" with the climate and population requirements.

[FrozenWisconsinites2019]

Originally Posted by KurtAZ

Could try Prescott? Probably a bit larger than your population requirements but I can't think of anywhere in AZ with a small population that would hit the "plenty of jobs" with the climate and population requirements.

It does have quite the the population, however I'm sure a suburb would be worth looking into. Thank you!

[teddyearp]

I don't know of any states with a population of less than 10,000.

[FrozenWisconsinites2019]

Originally Posted by teddyearp

I don't know of any states with a population of less than 10,000.

Towns within a state.

[gemstone1]

" plenty of jobs for DSP's (working with mentally/behaviorally handicapped" (yet a 15K population max ?) low 90's, no severe storms....you're going to need to pick another state.

If you are set on choosing AZ, figure out your maximum commute time, choose major metro areas (where the jobs are) and look within that radius. You will need to modify your absolute requirements, severe weather, low 90's for instance.
AZ severe weather includes, summer monsoon thunderstorms, and dust storms (snow in the higher elevations).
Dust storms, (for the most part) can be avoided by staying away from the area to the northwest of Tucson. Monsoonal influence can be avoided (for the most part) by avoiding the central, southeast part of AZ.

If I were to choose a place, given your requirements, I'd look at Benson, AZ....knowing it will not meet them all, but will meet some. It's close enough to allow for a commute to Tucson (or Sierra Vista if jobs are there), it's at a slightly higher elevation to moderate the summer heat, it will get some occasional snow, and there are plenty of rural settings for your dog issue.

Good Luck
Gemstone1

[FrozenWisconsinites2019]

Thank you Gemstone!

[mrshowtime3]

Bisbee is the only place that I think meets all those except the job. I have no clue what jobs they have available.

[FrozenWisconsinites2019]

Sounds great! I can deal with that. Thank you?

[meo92953]

I am retired and moved near Sierra Vista from Minnesota so definitely understand the wish to get away from snow!

It's nice here and I only found September really hot. I can live with that. As for jobs, you're going to have to search. A friend's brother was recently sent to one in Benson but I don't know the name of it. You might contact NAMI for suggestions.

As for the pit bull, that might be tough. Check the online newspapers for rentals. I know my complex doesn't allow them and a lot of ads I've seen do restrict them. That may be a tough requirement.

Good luck in your search. Keep in mind that you may have to make compromises. No place will be perfect or fit all your requirements.