Advice on Where to Move (neighborhoods, university, living in)

[Gaudicia]

Hello,

I'm currently living in Hollywood, FL. I've been here for 3 years and I'm ready to make a move. By june of next year I'll graduate and I will need to find a home. However, I don't want to stay in Florida. And even though I still have 9 months until I'm able to do anything I would like to research my options.

The previous month I went to Washington, DC and I loved it. I loved that Icould take the bus or the subway, that everything was within walking distance, and the buildings. It's definitely the type of enviorment that I'm looking for.

However, I was wondering if there were other options that will allow me to enjoy living downtown, the transportation, and wasn't as expensive.

Th current states I'm looking at are Georgia, South Carolina, and Washington DC. Washington DC being my main option.

I was wondering what things should I be looking for before making a decision. How to narrow down, my state selection or if there's another state I should consider.

Also, how to narrow down my job search? I'm a web designer/developer.

Thank you.

[Minnehahapolitan]

It really depends on other factors. Chicago is cheaper, and is much more cosmopolitan. Just colder. Philadelphia is cheaper, and has better weather than Chicago, just has worse neighborhoods. Minneapolis isn't as big as Wash., but is cheaper and colder. Iv'e never been a fan of Atlanta. IMO, that would leave you Charleston and Savannah, which are uncomparable to Washington because of their size. Hopefully that can get you started. Good luck.
---Minnehahapolitan

[dullnboring]

I cocur with Minnehahapolitan's (I always have such a hard time writing that ) post. Chicago and Philadelphia are two cities which offer vibrant, dense, urban downtown living, but at a cheaper cost than D.C. Baltimore is another option to look into.

[compelled to reply]

I second Chicago!

[dullnboring]

Well, there ya have it. Chicago's your choice. We have decided. Move there. Move NOW!

[Gaudicia]

Thank you for the information.

dullnboring, I wish I could move now.

What areas of Philadelphia, and Chicago would you recommend?

I was looking at Center City, however, I have no idea what areas to look at.

I'm single, so I want a place that's relatively safe. I don't have children so that's not something I'm worried about.

[mead]

Center City Philly or University City (near U Penn) are the nicest downtown areas of Philadelphia. You should still be able to find a 1br for about $1,000. This might seem expensive by Florida standards, but compared to NYC ($2,000-$2,500 for a 1br in a nice area) or DC its a bargain.

[compelled to reply]

Originally Posted by mead

Center City Philly or University City (near U Penn) are the nicest downtown areas of Philadelphia. You should still be able to find a 1br for about $1,000. This might seem expensive by Florida standards, but compared to NYC ($2,000-$2,500 for a 1br in a nice area) or DC its a bargain.

Not really. where he lives in Hollywood prices are about the same.

[Gaudicia]

Thank you. Florida is about the same. I'll go check Center City and University City.