NOVA to Columbia (Baltimore, Eldersburg, Sykesville: townhouse, unemployed, schools)

[movedoften]

I am considering moving to Columbia from NOVA. I work from home and the job will last another 6 months or so.

My reason for leaving here is the usual, cost of housing, horrible traffic, the general hassle of most events, etc. It also gets me closer to my family.

I don't hate DC/NOVA, I just don't enjoy it and now is the perfect time to make a move.

Eventually I will need to find work somewhere in the area. That is not a concern and I have the resources to be unemployed for awhile if I have to.

I am not interested in living in the City of Baltimore and I doubt I will spend much time there other than potentially working there. I am not a bar scene type or a "foodie" and usually ski, fish, hike, bike, etc. on the weekends.

Having access to Baltimore once a month or so to find a concert or go to a ballgame is about all that I need.

To all of those who live in Columbia and other similar suburbs of Baltimore, are you content?

To those who have made a similar escape to the Baltimore area from NOVA, how has your experience been?

[jtpindc]

Originally Posted by movedoften

I am considering moving to Columbia from NOVA. I work from home and the job will last another 6 months or so.

My reason for leaving here is the usual, cost of housing, horrible traffic, the general hassle of most events, etc. It also gets me closer to my family.

To all of those who live in Columbia and other similar suburbs of Baltimore, are you content?

To those who have made a similar escape to the Baltimore area from NOVA, how has your experience been?

I moved from Arlington to next to Columbia several years ago...you can't beat the traffic, affordable living, etc. compared to Nova.
we're about to upgrade from our laurel townhouse to a SFH in Howard county, Hanover, MD..signing papers on Sat.
it's even more affordable than Columbia but still in Howard county for resale, schools, etc. and only 5 miles away.
we think it's a hidden gem.

I do miss the plethora of happy hour options in Arlington, although now, my focus is with our infant.
if you want to talk to me or my realtor who works/lives in Columbia, let me know.... phanjt at yahoo dot com

[GoPhils]

I guess it may not be as bad as NOVA, but is the cost of living and traffic really that much better in Columbia?

[sandkrab]

Try going out to Carroll County (Sykesville, Eldersburg, or even Mt. Airy) for lower cost of living, still excellent schools and a much more laid back lifestyle. And (IMO) the people are friendlier too.