Question about economy/jobs in Columbia, MO... (Kansas City, St. Louis: houses, school)

[HollyMaria]

My boyfriend and I have been trying to get our finances at least stable before considering the BIG kahuna of all steps... marriage. One thing we've been considering is where we'd like to live. Right now we're in Kansas City, but neither of us really have ties to it.

My top choices are St. Louis or Columbia. All my family (except my mom) are in St. Louis. My mom is about 90 minutes south-southeast of Columbia. None of his are even in the country, so that's not exactly an issue.

But anyway, about Columbia. Here's the deal. I like Columbia a lot. I like urban/rural feel. There are options there, plus the major cities aren't TOO far away. But here's the thing...

My boyfriend is getting his RN, and I haven't gotten to finish school yet (Bachelor's degree I man) due to some family and personal issues that came up. And I was looking at the data on Columbia, MO... it says more than half of residents have a Bachelor's degree or higher. Well that is well and good. BUT...

I am wondering if that will mean it would be too difficult for my boyfriend and I to find decent jobs. Decent means an RN job for him and something making at least $11-$12/hour for me until I finish school.

Can anyone from there... or from the area... offer some comment? It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. ~Holly

[huntman58]

I would almost believe Springfield would be a better bet. A lot of medical there and also being a bigger city I would think more what you’re asking. Plus a few chouses in finishing your schooling. I know what you mean about getting things lined up before the big m word but then again do any of us have that tell we are retired ? I know I did not and still raised two great kids sorry can not give you more then that and it is all based on google research as I can not move there yet as waiting for the wife to also finish school here then we be gone and to Missouri . we are in some what the same boat as you so have looked into this incase we can move sooner then later .this will be the second time for us each and we are in our 40’s so old folk have some of the same concerns as you .We have added one I am disabled and there for can not work a normal job. That is also why we are held back tell she finishes school also.

[jps]

Originally Posted by HollyMaria

.....I am wondering if that will mean it would be too difficult for my boyfriend and I to find decent jobs. Decent means an RN job for him and something making at least $11-$12/hour for me until I finish school.

Can anyone from there... or from the area... offer some comment? It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. ~Holly

Neither of you should have any problem. Good luck.

[cpoulsen]

What did you guys decide?