[Skadess1]

I have lived in Florida my whole life... I have tried towns all over the state, I lived in Daytona, Orlando, Melbourne, Cocoa Beach, Boca, Boynton, and Lauderdale. I am pretty tired of Florida, I have wanted to get out of here since I was a teenager. I would love to be able to live in NY but I can't afford it and was thinking about moving to Burlington, Vermont. I love the cold and I love to snowboard so snow isn't a problem, but people tell me that its miserable and depressing there and nothing to do. Can anyone change my mind, because I am pretty excited about the idea of going, but lately, with what people are telling me, I am not sure.

[Sherylcatmom]

Originally Posted by Skadess1

I love the cold and I love to snowboard so snow isn't a problem, but people tell me that its miserable and depressing there and nothing to do. Can anyone change my mind, because I am pretty excited about the idea of going, but lately, with what people are telling me, I am not sure.

Regardless of what others tell you, I think this kind of decision depends on your own needs and wants. No one else can tell you where you'll be happy.

I'm a native South Floridian. In 1988 I moved to Northern New England and never looked back. I've been in Vermont for more than 12 years and plan to continue here for the duration.

I would never move back to Miami. I love my family but I never felt at home there: the weather, the flatness, the crowds, the paved-over-everything; it just didn't work for me.

I am very happy in Vermont. It's not a cushy or easy life, nor is it filled with the amenities I had in Florida. But while those things were sometimes pleasant diversions, they gave my life no meaning and I don't miss them. The only place I've ever really felt at home is Vermont.

But that's me. You can only answer this for yourself, and probably it will take research, visits to Vermont, and maybe even living here for a while. Good luck and have fun with it!

[7 Wishes]

I just wanted to note that Burlington is not as cheap to live in as you think. I am from NY and considered a move to Burlington and while I wouldn't call it "NYC expensive" it is not as inexpensive as many other areas of a similar population and job base. And posts from others who live here when I asked about this confirmed that as well. If it's possible for you to get a job before moving here I'd advise that.

[Skadess1]

Thanks!!! I have looked into places to live and the price is pretty comparable to South Fl. When I say I was thinking about NY I mean NYC and there is just no way I can afford that. I love New England, and have always wanted to try it, and always felt good about the move, but was starting to get worried because some people told me it was miserable, but I love the outdoors, so I thought it would be great!! But then again the people that live here and tell me that stuff are people that moved to South Fl from up north and are like 90 years old.

[flu189]

You will have to decide for yourself based on your own tolerances what may constitute misery. A couple of visits during various seasons combined with fact finding may give you a better picture. Your finances will also dictate how much quality of life you can afford which is really pretty much the same anywhere you go. As far as old people go, granted Fla in numbers has a very large segment of retired folks and one must remember that a majority of them originally made their livings and homes in northern states. There just comes a time when the ravages of time and biology creates a want and need to get away from the cold.

[FredsMom]

I am moving to VT in a few weeks and am orginally from the Cocoa Beach area (I've spent the last 5 years in Atlanta)... I'm very excited to make the move but I've also been researching and visiting for almost a year. Almost every day someone tells me I am crazy for moving, but I know I am ready.

BTW - I will never live in Florida again! I lived in Orlando for a few years, too. YUCK! One of my Vermonter friends said after visiting Jacksonvile, "You could put a roof on the state and create one huge strip mall!"

[LisaMc46]

I wouldn't move to Vermont without visiting first and spending some time here during the winter months (preferably in Feb.). Snow is great. Everyone loves snow and winter sports. But six months of it can be overwhelming. Not to mention that 20 degrees below zero weather that's not uncommon in February.

Vermont is a whole different world than Fla. as far as the weather, demographics, economy, etc. is concerned. While I think Vt. is a much nicer place to live, you should familiarize yourself with the state before making the move, especially now with the economy being pretty dire and unemployment rising.You're opnion may be different than mine, once you know the pros and cons.

Also, I don't know who told you that Burlington is depressing, but I disagree. We live about an hour away and go there for special occassions (anniversaries, birthdays, etc.) because we always have a great time on Church Street.

[maggiekate]

Have you considered either Maine or New Hampshire? They have all that Vermont has. Taxes
also are somewhat cheaper in New Hampshire.

[Skadess1]

Thanks everyone. The people that tell me Vermont would be depressing are the old people that live in Florida. I am so over the heat though. I do agree it is like one giant strip mall here with horrible drivers and no winter. I am going to visit Vermont again in three weeks to check things out. I have already been in the winter a few times and I loved it. Now time to check out the summer there Thanks for all the input so far!!

[Sherylcatmom]

Originally Posted by Skadess1

I have already been in the winter a few times and I loved it. Now time to check out the summer there

If you can do March here and still make smiley faces, you'll probably do just fine.