Nurses relocating to the far suburbs of Philadelphia (Reading, Lancaster: crime, house)

[jms531]

Hi! My husband and I are strongly considering a move to the Philly area. I have relatives that live down there and loved it more and more every time I've visited. The area we're looking at is East Fallowfield, Downingtown, Coatesville, Parkesburg because we really want new construction and in our price range (preferably around 250 but up to 300) it seems like this is where we can afford it. Are there many shopping strips in the area? I think Exton is the closest Target? And I've become a Wegmans addict-I think Downingtown is the closest?
Our daughter will be 5 or 6 when we move and we are planning on Catholic school. We're looking at Pope John Paul..anyone have any experience with the school or hear anything?
Also in terms of job market-how are things looking for RN's in the area? I'll have 2-3 years experience in Critical Care by the time we move and my husband will be a new graduate. Where would you suggest looking for a job and if someone could shed some light on salary that would be much appreciated. I've looked at salary.com and those sites but I'm wary to believe much of what I see there.
Thanks for any help and if anyone has additional info that would be greatly appreciated

[Icy Tea]

I did read that about 80% of Pa hospitals are cutting service staffs but I don't think that applies to medical personnel. I'd avoid Coatesville altogether. Parkesburg isn't too built up but its a decent enough commute to Lancaster and has a Wal mart. Lancaster has many privately owned grocery stores and some are very upscale. The farther west and northwest you go from Philly go the less taxes you pay( for now) and more house you can afford.
Lancaster and Reading have some big hospitals, none actually in the city themselves I believe so commuting is a little easier and crime isn't an issue. Hershey and Lehigh are very well known for trauma care. Montgomery and Chester counties I can't offer much advice about.