Kalispell, Work, & College (rentals, employment, transferring to)

[MT-Bound]

I'm looking to relocate from San Francisco to Kalispell early next year (March/April). I plan on going to the community college after I have my one year in the state. In the meantime I will be telecommuting to SF City College before and after I move, then transferring to FVCC.

I've been doing a lot of research on the city and it seems to be what I'm looking for. I'm NOT looking to turn it into what I'm leaving, believe me. I do have a few unique questions that apply to my situation as I have never lived in a small town and don't quite know what to expect, especially being from San Francisco. I'd don't mean to offend and appreciate any honest answers you guys and gals can give me, thanks!

Jobs-
I only have a GED, but I have a LOT of work experience (I'm almost 30), especially computer/office wise. I'm also handy with a soldering iron, though it's been a little while, so I'm a little rusty. I'm a hard worker who doesn't make much in San Francisco (especially when you factor in the absurd cost of living), and knows how to live cheap.

My main concern is shelter, power, water, and food being covered by my paycheck. I've heard of people with multiple jobs, but I'm not sure if they're trying to support a family, or just themselves.

Rentals-
I'm looking to rent a 1 or 2 bedroom place. I've seen places in the local paper online, but as a rule, do they go fast?

Transportation-
I don't have a driver's license (you can live your entire life without one here), and will definitely pursue one once I gain residency. Is there any business in the city that can help with that, or should I get one in CA first. I don't have a vehicle of my own at this point in time and was looking at getting a mountain bike to commute around town (I know it sounds silly), is that feasible? Will I have people trying to run me off the road (that happened to me when I lived in Reno several years ago)?.

Cell Phone Reception-
I rarely use the phone, but I like being able to when needed. I use AT&T wireless. I've checked with online sources, but I'd rather hear from the residents themselves.

I will have about 3 - 4K in the bank when I move, should I save even more?

From almost all I have read, it seems like a friendly place that is growing fast. I would very much like to become another non-disruptive resident. I welcome any additional tips any of you might have that you think would help.

[jimj]

Let's see if I can answer these for you.
1st, get your license before you get here. There are NO driving schools here except for school kids and transferring your license here is easy. I guess you could get your permit here and have a friend take you for the driving test but if you've never driven before I highly suggest a driving school there first. During the summer a mountain bike might be ok but understand, there is virtually NO public transportation here and not many cabs and unless you have studded tires for your bike it will be almost impossible to ride from about Thanksgiving to Easter.

On the job front, the unemployment rate here is about 2% there are jobs that will support you if you're willing to work. Teletech is hiring big time and will train and there are many new restaraunts as well as other stores that are hiring not to mention the staffing agency's are screaming for people as well as health care. You won't get rich but you'll do ok IF you're willing to work (that's the biggest complaint here from employers). One other big shocker, the labor laws are way different here. In CA there are manditory breaks and lunch time etc. Not here...... It's not unusual to work a whole shift (like at a restaraunt) and get your lunch break AFTER you're done working.

The housing you're looking at should be doable on what you'll make. If you can make it in SF you can make it here. Most people who are working multiple jobs are supporting at least one child and maybe a spouse as well. I know several single people who are doing just fine....

Cell phones, I have found Verizon has about the best coverage and usually let my friends who are on other services use my phone when theirs cuts out. The local ones may be a little cheaper but are not consistant when trying to make a call.

Just realize, you are in for a weather and culture shock, this is not the hippy-dippy left wing city you are leaving where everything is provided for you if you get in trouble, you are probably more on your own here than anywhere in the nation and it's up to you to sink or swim! Many have come here, realized that it's hard to live here and only lasted a few months to a year but if you work hard you'll be in some of the nicest country in the nation.
On the savings question, the more you have saved the better! You will need a car, but you can get cheap ones here and it'll give you a cushion or safety net that most here don't have which will allow you to be at least a little picky in what work you do.
Good luck, buy warm clothes and have a safe trip!

[MT-Bound]

First of all, thank you Jimj, for the quick and informative reply.

It looks like I will do my best to get my license in CA, as I don't know anybody in MT, though I will wait to get a vehicle until after I get a job in Kalispell.

I lived and worked in Reno for almost two years and got a taste of non-CA labor laws, so what you're describing isn't completely alien to me. I think I'll check out the employment agency as I've always had good luck with those places, especially after I give them my resume.

I'm looking forward to leaving this hippy-dippy left wing city where, IMO, they do TOO much for people, regardless if they help themselves. The mayor might be able to hide the homeless from the tourists and the cameras, but there are a LOT of them here. But I digress...

Again, thank you very much for all your pointers and the encouragement, I know I can make it. I may be a city boy, but my parents are both from the country; My dad was raised in Moscow, ID.