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I've been doing some research on where to move to next, and I thought I'd pop in here and ask just in case I missed anything. I currently live in Denver, but find it too expensive, with too many people (traffic) and too much construction.
Some things I desire in a new place.
-Affordable (this is relative, but let's say not too much over the U.S. average)
-Outdoorsy (plenty of places to hike, bike, kayak, etc). I'm more into summer sports than winter sports. That being said, even though I don't ski or board, I've still enjoyed the Rockies.
- Small city/big town desired. I would say anywhere between 25,000 - 200,00 people (the metropolitan area can be bigger)
- Relatively sunny weather. Denver will be tough to beat.
- 4 seasons or mediterranean temps. I'd consider both. What I don't like are really hot/humid temps or long winters.
- Fun downtown, or an emerging downtown with some energy. I don't drink much but I do like a vibrant downtown. And I love my coffee shops.
- Not too much traffic
- It would be nice if it had an entrepreneurial scene
- I like both beach and mountains, but prefer mountains. And rivers/forests.
- A community feel where people are friendly and say hello and get to know you.
- It would be nice if it were close to an airport and somewhat close to a larger city, but not necessary.
I realize it's hard or impossible to find a place that meets all of these criteria, but I'd love to hear your suggestions. I'm single, mid 40s, no kids and run my own online business, so jobs are not a concern. Not too concerned with politics either. I have family spread out over the country (California and Virginia). I will rent first and hopefully buy down the road.
Take a trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western NC. You've pretty much described it. Asheville is the largest city, can be expensive to purchase property right in Asheville currently, rent maybe or purchase within one of the other towns/counties nearby. Also within a reasonable drive to Virginia via Rt. 81. Or, one of the beautiful towns off Rt. 81 in Virginia. Lynchburg, Roanoke, etc.
Take a trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western NC. You've pretty much described it. Asheville is the largest city, can be expensive to purchase property right in Asheville currently, rent maybe or purchase within one of the other towns/counties nearby. Also within a reasonable drive to Virginia via Rt. 81. Or, one of the beautiful towns off Rt. 81 in Virginia. Lynchburg, Roanoke, etc.
Thank you! Have been to Eastern TN but not Western NC. Have heard that Asheville is getting a bit pricey and crowded, but want to take a look myself. Maybe a surrounding town would be better. Roanoke is on the list. I have family near there, have visited several times and going back in a couple of weeks. Thanks!
I visited Boise last year but there was something about it I didn't like. I actually like Ogden and Salt Lake City Utah much better, especially in terms of their beauty/scenery.
I don't hear Ogden getting much attention and I wonder why. Very affordable, 25 minutes to some incredible scenery/ski slopes and close to a bigger city.
Asheville is weirdly touted as "expensive" but similar locations such as Denver, Boulder, Salt Lake City and Boise for example are as expensive or more so. Seemingly there's an expectation of lower cost there for some reason which given the outdoor amenities, culture, food scene and gorgeous setting is at best a ridiculous assumption/desire.
Don't move to the TN, SC, or NC mountains. It's too hot and humid. The summers can get miserable. The mountains are classified as a rainforest which means the humidity can be off the charts.
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