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We are two 30-somethings. One is an electrical engineer who currently works at Intel. The other is a forensic social worker (I work in prisons) but can work in other areas as well. We both have masters degrees in our fields. We like cities with culture, good food, four seasons, and areas that are dog friendly. We need to live within 12 hours of Memphis, TN because that is where our family is. We can't deal with 100+ degree temperatures and are not keen on desert life. We currently live in Sacramento and are not in love with it. There's not a lot going on in this city and it's not very interesting/exciting. San Francisco is OK but much too expensive. These are the options we are considering so far:
NOVA (Northern Virginia)
Cleveland
Maryland (near D.C)
Chicago
Michigan (not Detroit)
DC is an excellent choice and winters are somewhat milder there than your other choices which you'll find another perk. I think Old Town Alexandria (VA) in particular would suit you well as it's a very desirable area with beautifully restored historic homes/apts and is very dog-friendly. Also check out the nearby neighborhood of Del Ray which is very popular with younger professionals.
If you go with MI, I'd look into Ann Arbor and Royal Oak, as well as other communities along the Woodward Ave corridor. Farmington/Farmington Hills and the Plymouth/Canton areas may be worth a look as well.
Culture, good food, and 4 seasons? It should be readily apparent that Chicago would be the best choice, by far, on your poll. It offers everything you want (not only quantity, but quality, too). Plus you have over 150 suburbs to choose from, the best public transporation, and most likely the best paying jobs. You could spend most of your life exploring Chicago and always find something new to do and see. I lived in the area for well over 30 years, and miss how much there was to do out there. Its an amazing city. Good luck on your move!
NOVA or Maryland. The location is ideal for traveling to nearby cities. Personally, I don't like being in a land-locked cities. Here in Texas I can drive for 8 hrs and still be in Texas.
Cleveland has a low cost of living. It has one of the best orchestra's in the world, world renowned museums, it is listed among the best places to visit in 2015 (LA Times, Fodor's, Leisure Magazine). Its restaurant is gaining national attention. We have the cleveland metroparks which are amazing, as well as a national park (Cuyahoga Valley National Park).
It's definitely worth a look.
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