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Portland seems to fit a number of the OP's criteria. I'd be concerned about the weather, since she said she'd consider any place but seems to really prefer milder winters if all else fits. My other concern would be cost of living. Okay, I should talk, being the one who suggested Boulder, but even though Portland is less expensive compared to the larger urban areas in the Northeast, it's kind of pricey by national standards. If the OP can handle the weather, and if Portland would fit her budget, it would be a great fit with the other criteria, and in a state with gorgeous outdoor scenery.
It is time for me to move on and I'd love some suggestions from this knowledgable forum! Here's some background:
I'm a 25 year old single female currently living in TX in the DFW area. I have lived in all the big cities in TX and am VERY ready for a change. I have a college education but I manage a record store. I'd like to move someplace with an active music scene and interesting job opportunities-- though really big cities make me anxious. I have visited the standard towns for people my age with similar interests (portland, austin, sanfran, nyc, boston) and wasn't really taken by them. I have never lived in cold weather or spent much time in snow (not sure how my car would hold up) but willing to try anything. I would really like to find a cool gem of a town with a low cost of living and down to earth people who are active and fun!
Also I hear that there are places that don't have cockroaches/waterbugs like TX has (everywhere)... is this true? I am very scared of those kind of bugs and would be very glad to find a city/town that is not crawling with them.
Thanks for reading this post! I appeal to you all for your helpful suggestions!
my friend gloria says steve when you got money everyplace is mardi gras
Another vote to check out Portland, Maine. It's a wonderful small city, the climate is NOT as bad as people from away seem to think, there are lots of things to do there and a good job market. Plus if you are an outdoor kind of girl, the activity potential is endless.
And, Portland is an easy drive to Boston if you want to spend the day or a weekend and yet not have to live there.
Pretty old thread but perhaps useful to others in a similar situation. Midwest college towns are a great recommendation. They're typically affordable, offer a good quality of life and somewhat decent job prospects. Madison WI, Iowa City IA, Bloomington IN, Lawrence KS and Columbia MO are some good choices.
New Orleans! music is super appreciated there! and if you need to get some cash before starting your business, there are always service industry jobs in demand. seriously, lots of help wanted signs. and the city is super charming... its hard not to be taken by it. and affordable... although drinking there can be a bit pricey until you find the local hole in the walls.
but be prepared for stuff to be real slow (and hot) till october.
only downside to NOLA, is if by active you mean outdoorsy, its not the best city for that. but it really is a gem of a city (my favorite in the states.. so im biased i suppose) and there is so much to do its ridiculous. its small too, but there are so many easter eggs to discover in the city that there is no way in hell you will ever get bored.
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