Lesbian family relocating (Pittsburgh, Lancaster, Harrisburg: real estate, for rent, insurance)

[momto6]

We are considering relocating to PA from Florida. We are a lesbian family with 6 children ages ranging from 14years-7months. Ideally we would like to live in an area with good schools, affordable housing (with some land) that is diverse. Finding secure employment is also a consideration. My partner is a home health administrator (RN) and I am and administrator in a human service organization (MSW.)
I have just started my research and would appreciate any suggestions. Also, how do taxes and insurance (property and vehicle) compare.
Thanks

[Pat_in_Pa]

Can you give a price range for rent/buy? That's the key up here.

You can have diversity for cheap, or diversity for big bucks.

[momto6]

I would like to keep the housing price under 400K. Thanks

[danwxman]

The Harrisburg area is a great option for you. Abundant affordable housing less then 400K, good economy and a ton of healthcare related jobs. Also the strongest gay community outside of Philly and Pittsburgh.

[teachbeach]

Your housing budget and occupations would probably be met best in the Harrisburg area, with a possible look at York. Geisinger, Pinnacle, Wellspan are the networks you may want to look in to for employment opportunities.

[Artie See]

Originally Posted by momto6

We are considering relocating to PA from Florida. We are a lesbian family with 6 children ages ranging from 14years-7months. Ideally we would like to live in an area with good schools, affordable housing (with some land) that is diverse. Finding secure employment is also a consideration. My partner is a home health administrator (RN) and I am and administrator in a human service organization (MSW.)
I have just started my research and would appreciate any suggestions. Also, how do taxes and insurance (property and vehicle) compare.
Thanks

Stay away from Lancaster County, unless you want to live in Lancaster City. Far too many Lancaster County residents react very badly to alternative lifestyles.

Wherever you go in south central PA, you will find people much more open in and near the urban areas. The ultra-conservative Mennonite and Amish influence means there are a lot of narrow-minded people in farming country and small towns.

Real estate taxes in Lancaster City are just over 34 mils, and tend to decrease as you get further away from the more developed areas.

[Pat_in_Pa]

I'm thinking you didn't mention a specific area, just someplace you'd feel comfortable with a gaggle of kids, diversity, decent jobs and under $400k.

SE PA is probably your best bet on the diversity. Nobody gives a cr@p (and actually you wouldn't be that "special"), around here. I think it has something to do with the Quaker foundation. We have two gay couples on our block, and from what they tell me, they've always felt comfortable here (near Philly). Now in our town, you only get lots...not acreage.

Around here, you'd be able to focus on school quality, I think.

Here's an idea for under $400k.
You could add on to this place...it's actually a good bit of land for the area. Excellent schools:
http://tinyurl.com/23etg7

That'll give you an idea of zip codes to search with good schools and open minds.

Good luck.

[momto6]

Thanks for the input...Geez Pat..that is a little house..We are in 3200 sq. ft. now...ugh..don't know if we can down size that much. Thanks though the search will continue.