Need advices.Moving from south Florida Boca Raton to Portland (best neighborhood, apartment)

[tachie]

I'm planning on moving to Portland. Im a registered RN, will be working @ the VA, single w/ 2 young girls 11&10. Im a carribean., looking for good public schools. Where is the best neighborhood w/ good schools?Heard about the diversity, hope it is a wise move. Thank you.

[Nell Plotts]

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You will have no issues at all. If you speak with a Caribbean accent you will be the object of fascination.

You haven't mentioned your housing budget. I assume you will want a 2 bedroom apartment initially. You should look for housing that works with your commute. Your commute to the VA hospital can be complicated because of the lack of parking on "Pill Hill". You should explore that with your HR folks. They may have established park & rides to the hospital. The VA does have clinics off of the hill so that may not be an issue for you.

The hospital is well located for either the Lincoln or Wilson High School enrollment areas. School-wise they will receive a quality education. Be aware that Portland does not bus students unless it is impossible for them to get to school walking or on public transit. Because you may be at work when your children are going to and from school try to avoid their crossing busy streets. Before you sign a lease walk their route to school. Middle school (6, 7 8th grades) students are usually bussed because of distance.

[things and stuff]

People in Portland seem far less pre-occupied and obsessed with ethnicity than the shallow folks of South Florida. Out of curiosity, people may ask you about your accent. I don't think you'll have any issues with anyone but yourself.

[tachie]

Thank you, very Helpful! Oh yes did not mention housing. which neighborhood will be best?

[Nell Plotts]

There are lots of great neighborhoods, not one 'best'.