What appeals to you more in a place to live: character/soul or jobs/professional opportunities? (living, cost of living)

[Mutiny77]

This might have been discussed here, and I'd imagine that most people would ideal like an even mix of both, but which is more important to you in a place to live: soul/character/sense of place or a robust economy/jobs/professional opportunities/reasonable cost of living?

[bluescreen73]

The two aren't necessarily mutually exclusive. Take Denver, for instance. Robust, growing economy and a highly-educated workforce along with some of the most beautiful outdoors anywhere in the country.

DFW's economy is on fire right now, but I'll never go back there. Too bland and soul-sucking in comparison.

[Mutiny77]

Originally Posted by bluescreen73

The two aren't necessarily mutually exclusive.

I understand that, and as I said ideally a lot of people would like equal amounts of both. But the question is, which appeals to you more?

[bluescreen73]

Originally Posted by Mutiny77

I understand that, and as I said ideally a lot of people would like equal amounts of both. But the question is, which appeals to you more?

At this point in my life it's definitely the former. I did the rat race in my 20s & 30s. That was more than enough for me.

[Mutiny77]

Originally Posted by bluescreen73

At this point in my life it's definitely the former. I did the rat race in my 20s & 30s. That was more than enough for me.

Yes, I know much of this depends on one's age and station in life also.

[NOVA_guy]

I'm in my 20s and still moving up the ladder so definitely at this stage economy/jobs/professional opportunities is most important but I do want to "get out" at some point, I don't want to be in the rat race forever.

[Icemodeled]

I would say economy and COL is first to me. While I do not have a traditional job, but am self employed, the economy of a city will determine if I can survive, along with the COL of course. This is ultimately most important. Character is great, but 2nd for me.

[LexusNexus]

Describe what is meant by character/soul. Can't a place that provides jobs, opportunities have character/soul?

[Juxtaposition109]

For me personally weather is a huge factor. I grew up in the mid-west and hated the long gray winters. I now live in Southern Nevada and the sun is out all the time.

[SyraBrian]

Should be the latter but unfortunately I have the heart of a beatnik.