[Andzia74]

We used to lived in NYC for 3 years and moved to Orlando, FL. We have been here for over 5 years and absolutely hate it. Weather, life-style are not for us. We have plan to move either to NC, Raleigh or somewhere in CT Hartford or Stamford) I prefer CT, my husband NC. And we really don't know what's to do. We have 3,5 year daughter, schools are very important for us, also we love fishing, we love to go out. My husband is a high class chef, he used to be executive chef in very famous deli in NYC, soon I will become RN. Do you have any suggestions for us, what should we do?? Where we should go??

Thanks!

[sgfludd]

Raleigh - particularly Cary and other suburbs have great schools. I lived in the Charlotte area briefly and enjoyed it. Perhaps surf job sites and see where the best gigs are for hubby - and go from there. You can get more house for your money in NC - but it just depends on what it is you're looking for. And if you didn't like the weather in FL - NC will be more of the same- mild winters with hot, humid summers. Lots of rain and thunderstorms too. As for you - the nursing field is wide open - so you will be able to find something in either state.

[Erin1264]

I'd suggest searching the forum for other long threads that compare CT to NC. There are at least two. That will probably be your best insight.

[JayCT]

I can't believe no one else responded to this one. Connecticut has great schools, some of the best in the nation. We also have some of the best restaurants, so your husband should have no trouble finding a good job. There are also a lot of opportunities for nurses here, so I would say CT would be a great choice for you.

As noted there was a debate about which is better (CT or NC). There were a lot of opinions each way. Some love the weather here, some hate it. Some love the charm of New England, others feel the people are too reserved or snobby. Some say that it is cheaper to live in NC, others say the better pay in Ct more than makes up the difference.

For myself, I love it here. Connecticut has so much to offer. You like city living, we have some great small cities or Boston and New York are just an hour or so drive away. You want ocean, Ct has wonderful beaches. You like to ski, great slopes a short drive away. You like hiking, great state or municipal parks all over the state. Shopping your bag, all the great stores are here or a short drive to NYC.

I prefer the schools here. Generally they are locally run by each town meaning they are smaller systems than you would find in NC where they are run on a county-wide basis. There are school system with issues but they are primarily in the more urban areas with mixed populations. Also NC seems to have a lot of hidden costs like taxes on food bought in a grocery store. Anyway, I would strongly suggest you and your husband give consideration to CT. I do not think you will regret it. It would be a great place to raise your child. JMHO Jay

[JViello]

JayCT: I think we are just worn out from the Raleigh vs CT threads. LOL

To the OP: Seriously take the advice and do a search for the other threads. You will find a spirited but informative read.

As Jay said, do seriously consider the Hartford metro...it's got a lot to offer. I spent 5 years in Orlando and then lived in the Charlotte area and moved back to CT myself without regrets at all.