Want to get the H outta NoVA - but where to go? (Hampton: transplants, real estate) - Northern Virginia - Virginia - City-Data Forum

filmsniffer · 12-09-2008, 05:51 PM

I'm real tired of this Northern Virginia shenanigans. I want out. I grew up in Fauquier County when it was predominately rural. I want that back. So yes, I'm doing the stupid American thing - moving!

I originally had my heart set on upstate NY; a friend heed a friendly reminder that I should have back up if that ever fails. Problem is, I couldn't come up with one.

I prefer small/rural communities with lots of country settings that is not so far removed from civilization [I still need a job anywhere I move] I would like to stay in the northeastern region, but I'll be willing to try new places.

Since there are numerous transplants on here, I'd like to hear where you came from, and if you think I would benefit from it.

Don't say California; I hate that state as much as Idahoans hate them.

VRE332 · 12-09-2008, 06:42 PM

Move to PG county. should be a change of scenery for you. You may like it

tgbwc · 12-09-2008, 06:55 PM

How about Ohio? I grew up there. You can find some nice, small rural towns and still be close to some population centers/cities such as Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. That's not too mention a lot of smaller cities the size of Toledo, Canton, Akron, Youngstown, etc.

MacUser85 · 12-09-2008, 07:14 PM

How about Asheville, N.C., Charlottesville, Va., or Columbia, S.C.? Small cities, but with some sort of job prospects.

diertac · 12-09-2008, 07:22 PM

I got the H out of NoVa and moved to Charlotte, North Carolina.

I lived in Northern Virginia for 12 years (moved up from Atlanta, Georgia). What, exactly, is it that you do up in Northern Virginia?

I read that you want to stay in the northeast. The only issue is that up there you don't get quite as much house for your $$ as you do in the southeast. I also moved south for the warmer weather. I am a project manager in software and network engineering, so finding an industry outside of Virginia was pretty straightforward.

The Dissenter · 12-09-2008, 08:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by filmsniffer

I'm real tired of this Northern Virginia shenanigans. I want out. I grew up in Fauquier County when it was predominately rural. I want that back. So yes, I'm doing the stupid American thing - moving!

I originally had my heart set on upstate NY; a friend heed a friendly reminder that I should have back up if that ever fails. Problem is, I couldn't come up with one.

I prefer small/rural communities with lots of country settings that is not so far removed from civilization [I still need a job anywhere I move] I would like to stay in the northeastern region, but I'll be willing to try new places.

Since there are numerous transplants on here, I'd like to hear where you came from, and if you think I would benefit from it.

Don't say California; I hate that state as much as Idahoans hate them.

We moved here from Hampton, VA. With your criteria i dont recommend it.

I'm waiting to get the h outta NoVA too and plan to head to Kentucky (Ft. Knox and Louisville) due to a BRAC family move. That may be a good start with your criteria.

terrence81 · 12-10-2008, 07:38 AM

Maybe moving further out will help. Honestly, with the state of the economy I'd be careful about relocating right now unless you had a sure fire guaranteed job. What is it about VA that you hate so much? The traffic? cost of living?

Just moved up here. If anything want the opposite of what you want. The last thing I want is to live in a rural area. Yet at the same time I like living in Virginia versus DC because there are more trees and nature in general. Maybe a place in the moutains in VA or West VA. Went to Harpers Ferry a couple months ago and loved it.

homeschoolmama · 12-10-2008, 09:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by terrence81

Maybe moving further out will help. Honestly, with the state of the economy I'd be careful about relocating right now unless you had a sure fire guaranteed job. What is it about VA that you hate so much? The traffic? cost of living?

I agree. It is a risky time and I think we definitely need to know what you are NOT looking for in order to help you out. We moved to Lovettsville. We wanted a more rural aspect, but we wanted to be safe and be within travel distance to jobs. My husband works in Tysons, but if needed, he could work in D.C., MD or other parts of NoVa. He hates the drive, but it's worth it when home. Great neighbors, spacious pasture land, mountain views...

There are still issues, as Loudoun is into their government spending, ordinances and taxes (they passed an ordinance this summer that allows them to mow "unkept" lawns--4 inches tall or more--if less than an acre. Of course, they pay through the nose at almost $250 a yard and expect tax payers to pay the bill). But, if it is the government you are running from, you need to take a good hard look at America--it started in the big government and is trickling down to the local governments. Unless you head to the heartland of America, there aren't a lot of choices. I only throw this reasoning in because often (like us) when one is looking for "rural", they are looking for less government and more self-sufficiency and more neighbors-caring-for-neighbors.

I'd hate for you to move, just to find the same problems somewhere else.
So, please, tell us what you DON'T want, so we can help you out.

filmsniffer · 12-10-2008, 10:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tgbwc

How about Ohio? I grew up there. You can find some nice, small rural towns and still be close to some population centers/cities such as Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. That's not too mention a lot of smaller cities the size of Toledo, Canton, Akron, Youngstown, etc.

Ohio does sound like a good idea. I've been to Columbus & Cleveland. I liked them. It seems like besides the big three cities, Ohio is as deserted as it can be.

I'm not sure what's going on in that state. I haven't heard much about it. I get the impression the whole state is economincally depressed. NE Ohio has it the worst. What type of jobs that are available there? White or blue.

filmsniffer · 12-10-2008, 10:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by diertac

I got the H out of NoVa and moved to Charlotte, North Carolina.

I lived in Northern Virginia for 12 years (moved up from Atlanta, Georgia). What, exactly, is it that you do up in Northern Virginia?

I read that you want to stay in the northeast. The only issue is that up there you don't get quite as much house for your $$ as you do in the southeast. I also moved south for the warmer weather. I am a project manager in software and network engineering, so finding an industry outside of Virginia was pretty straightforward.

I was considering Charlotte, but then again, everyone and their grandmother is swarming to Charlotte. Must be the water! SC sounds better. I love their pecans. They grow the best peaches. What's in Columbia?

Currently, I'm a security specialist. Ideal for DC, right? I truly hate it, and I'm getting out. Considering a career change as well. I also will go back to school sometime soon to get my foot in the door for future salaried employments. Mind you, I won't be a full-time student. I'm a bit too old for that.

I prefer the northeastern area, yes, but if the job is lucrative enough, I'll move to anywhere as long as it's not similar to NoVA/DC. I'm fully aware of the real estate comparisons. Affordable housing can be had, but, you're going to give up a few things. I like having 4 seasons, but I'll be glad to live in different climates...but one day, I'll return to stay.