Orlando vs. San Diego (living, cost, places, population)

[nep321]

After tons of research and discussion, I have finally narrowed down my decision on which city/area to move to next. I have to move out of my current apartment in CT by Dec 8, so I have to make a move very very soon. So....Orlando or San Diego?

My main motive for moving is to live in an area with a larger gay population than central CT. I'm not interested in living in a super gay place like Provincetown or Ft. Lauderdale. Please don't suggest other cities, as I have thoroughly examined every single large metro area in the country, and I have already lived in NYC and would never move back. So, please keep the thread discussion to only San Diego or Orlando.

I am well educated, have an excellent resume and 5 years of experience in tax/accounting. I can afford rent or mortgage (including all other fees) of up to around $1,500 per month on my own, and will NOT consider roommates under any circumstances. I own a car and love driving instead of public transit. I prefer slower paced lifestyles and don't want to live in a stressful, fast-paced environment. As for weather, let's just say I hate cold weather. I like it mild or warm. I have family and friends in both places and they are willing to help me out in any way they can. I have no job but plan to look for one once I arrive in the new city. According to the BLS, both metro areas have an unemployment rate of 8.4%, so that's a wash.

Remember, my #1 concern is to have a large, quality gay population., but also personally enjoy where I live.

Your suggestion?

[fltonc12]

San Diego has more gays by population, Orlando by percentage.

I guess you could be well off in both, but you said you prefer a slower paced lifestyle, neither IMO are going to give that to you.

I'd probably lean more with Orlando, due to the fact it's a warmer than San Diego and has less people.

[ThinkingElsewhere]

I would say San Diego. I find San Diego much more well-rounded and exciting city than Orlando (although Orlando has come far in recent years). The only advantage Orlando has over San Diego has is a more reasonable COL overall, but then again many of vibrant residential areas of Orlando are quite expensive, so it can be a toss-up.

Accounting is a high-demand, stable field so you shouldn't have a problem finding a job in either city.

[nep321]

I know. The nice thing about Orlando is the low cost of living, although pay is lower too. In SD, I would probably have to pay $1,500 for a decent 1 bedroom apt, whereas in Orlando, it can be had for maybe $800. But in SD, the people seem more educated in general.