Hoping to relocate from TN (Gillette, Sheridan: rental market, mobile home, job)

[Deaconblues2]

Well....here goes.

We are a small family of three, (Dad, Mom, and 12YO son), hoping to leave the crowds, and lifestyle of East TN behind in search of "America, the way it used to be."

I traveled through Wyoming in 2002, (through Pinedale, Cody, Lovell, Sheridan, Buffalo and Gillette), and of the 40 states and 6 countries that I've been fortunate enough to visit in my life, I finally felt that I was where I belonged. I yearn for the wide open spaces, for the simpler way of life, but especially to be among "real" people.

My wife and I are anxious to make the transition away from our current lifestyles, and we have done some pretty exhaustive internet research, (investigating job markets, housing, schools, etc. etc.). Of course, no amount of research can compare first hand knowledge. So we are here to ask questions to those of you who live there, and we plan to visit this summer, 2008, prior to making the "leap". We have our sights set on the Cody/Powell area, (due to the recreational opportunities, the school system, and the proximity to Billings, MT), and would like to make the dream become reality sometime in the next 18 months.

Questions for any who might be interested in answering:
1. With regard to housing, since we would likely have to rent until we get established, are there more rental units available in the winter/spring months? Or is the rental market pretty flat year round?
2. Are there any mobile home manufacturers in the region? If so, what does lot rent typically run?
3. Job market, (I am a carpenter/contractor by trade), I understand that there is a fair amount of construction in the area, does it appear that the construction industry will grow in the next few years?

Thank all of you, in advance, for any help/advice you may give.

Regards,
Mark, Debi & Zach

[Mimijohnson]

So funny that you posted this. I was going to do the same. I’m from Northeast TN as well, (yep crowed…very crowed I get anxiety sometimes). I’m looking to go to school at the University of Wyoming because it is very affordable for the major I wish to pursue.
Anyway, I wish you much luck with your move. I’m nervous for my move. I’m 24 and only have a dog to worry about I could only image what moving a whole family would be like and so far away as well.
I think I’ll miss the rolling hills of Appalachia but I am very excited to see the high peaks of Wyoming’s mountains!