City and/or state suggestions for relocation-4 seasons, scenery (hotels, private schools)

[bears0909]

Hello My boyfriend and I are planning on moving out of Chicago in the next 1-2 yrs. and I was looking for some ideas on new places to consider for relocation. Thanks in advance for any input.

Things I am most looking for:

-4 seasons (I like the change of seasons and would like some snow although I do not necessarily need as much as Chicago, but I also do not want to live somewhere that only gets a chance of 1-2 inches or so a year)
-A lower cost of living. I don't want to be spending ALL my salary on housing.
-great scenery(trees, mountains, lakes or ocean).
-lots of outdoor activities (We like to hike, ski, etc.)
-No Illinois, Indiana, or Michigan-no flatland. I would rather have access to mountains/hills even if it is a few hours away.
-A younger population (more young families/couples in late 20s to upper 30s)
-culture(museums, zoos, holiday events).
-pro or college sports teams

[Rachael84]

I'd say central NY, like Ithaca or Syracuse.

[needing more]

NC all the way.. Try Charlotte or Asheville area. Mountains but still only 4-6 hrs from the ocean. Still 4 seasons but less snow then Chi-town. Charlotte has a good younger population.. Asheville is more progressive.. lots of organic restaurants, great health care and outdoorsy type people but not a great bar scene or clubs.

[BPerone201]

Central Connecticut around Meriden, Connecticut.
Meriden is an absolutely stunning New England city.

[Jeromeville]

You want central or eastern NY state.

[synapse]

How about Denver? Great scenery with the mountains nearby; you still get snow and the four seasons, but none of them as dramatic as Chicago; great sports scene; several excellent museums and art shows.

[J'aimeDesVilles]

I would say upstate NY or New England. Also maybe Columbus, OH. It is flat but only 2-3 hours from WVa. and Kentucky and 2-3 hours from Lake Erie.

[DailyJournalist]

Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh Hotels, Attractions & Vacation Packages : Pittsburgh PA CVB

[Jax419]

I would have to say Denver also, Seems like a nice place. you get the big city feel still, with moutains, and they get all 4 seasons. Just don't become a donkey(bronco) fan.

[STLCardsBlues1989]

How about St. Louis? Granted, the city is fairly flat, but not far from the city, you run into the Ozarks. Lake of the Ozarks is a few hours away. I'm not sure about skiing, but it should meet most of your other requirements. A weekend or summer trip to lake of the Ozarks could meet your desire for mountains (albeit small ones), as well as hiking, and water sports.

St. Louis has one of the best zoos in the country, with free admission. Granted, city schools are not good, but there are good suburban schools, private schools, and charter schools. Cost of living is lower than Chicago.
Moderator cut: link removed, linking to competitors sites is not allowed
Cost of Living comparison calculator
The second link states St. Louis is 20% cheaper than Chicago.

Might wanna look into it anyway. Like I said, the city is fairly flat, but the Ozark Mountains are not far away.

You might get some ribbing if you are a Cub fan, but I would think most people wouldn't treat you too badly.