Moving to Bainbridge?? (Seattle, Vancouver: for rent, home, employment)

[thurlbu]

O.K. - Here's my situation. I am a single father with 2 kids. My daughter is 8 and my son is 11. I have been living in Southern California for the last 6 or 7 years. The reason most people like Southern California does not apply to me. I grew up in Denver so I miss the natural wooded scenery that is not part of southern California. I am self employed from home so employment opportunities are not an issue for me. What appeals to me is being close to a large city but far enough away to have some place to raise kids in a healthy environment. I came across Bainbridge on accident exploring Seattle, Portland and Vancouver B.C. I live a pretty secluded lifestyle so I dont think the small town feel of Bainbridge would be an issue and if I did I'm only 30 minutes from Seattle. All that being said, it feels like Bainbridge could be a perfect fit for me. I'm 34 years old, very mellowed out and just want to have beauty, scenery, good food, good schools and a great place to raise kids. My girlfriend may accompany me and if she did would possibly go to school in Seattle. Any issues that I am not aware of when it comes to actually living there? I'm prepared to spend between $2500 to $3500 for rent which seems like would get me a nice, decent sized home. Any information positive or negative would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[JustCallMeTC]

Bainbridge is a wonderful place to raise kids and they have fantastic schools. The only knock is in fact part of what makes it special.

The Ferry. You can drive around if need be. But that is a major ordeal. If you understand the monetary implications, and the logistical complications of living with a Ferry System, then Bainbridge is a fantastic fit. You will get caught in Ferry lines. Not a matter of if, but rather when. Make sure you can deal with that. And then there are the times you have to leave events early to catch the last ferry... and so on.

Your girlfriend may find it quite challenging however, depending upon where she goes to school.

[cabocurtis]

If you can walk or bike or motorcycle the ferry is not an issue. You can walk on and bus to catch the new light rail link to the airport and also you can walk to many restaurants, concerts and sporting events in Seattle. I think based on your criteria and being self employed Bainbridge could be a perfect solution. Coming from CA the housing prices will not be a shock.