New stage in my life - where to go?

[DirtMagurt]

Originally Posted by NewLeafAwakenings

Thanks guys - you have given me lots of places to start. Some places like VT and NH I would have thought were still hot in the summer - it hits 80's and I am melting. A dry 80's may be different but the cooler the better!

Seattle

[timeofseasons]

Try the Pacific northwest, northern Michigan, far Northeast, and Montana.

[BVitamin]

I'd also recommend the Pacific Northwest and possibly NorCal. Also, I would personally avoid Seattle -- it's a grey prison.

The Northeast gets hot and humid, don't know what other members are talking about.

[choosing78]

Somewhere in Colorado would meet most of your needs but you would have to be diligent (something off the beaten path or compromise being on a lake, etc) in finding a rental in the price range. Also what about the Spokane/Couer d'Alene area?

[TheKiwi]

I think Vermont or New Hampshire would be great for you!

Keene, NH is a great New England town with the conveniences of a city. They even have a PETCO! It's a college town so there are tons of things to do there - lots of shopping, restaurants, bars, etc. All seasons it's absolutely beautiful to photograph. There are beautiful autumns with all of the foliage colors, lovely snowy winters, and hot but not humid summers. The seacoast is a few hours away and the mountains are close too. Brattleboro, VT is another close-by and wonderful little city.

Best of luck!

[Swampbird]

I am inclined to say Oregon or Washington, except for your rental requirements. But maybe you can find something in your range....

I have to disagree with New England. It is one of the most expensive parts of the country.

[FarewellLA]

I'm not sure about the cost of living but I'd say the Northwest. Maybe Portland.

[TheKiwi]

Originally Posted by Swampbird

I have to disagree with New England. It is one of the most expensive parts of the country.

Not everywhere. There are areas of NH and VT that have pretty low rents, and in NH there's no sales tax.

[Pine to Vine]

Originally Posted by NewLeafAwakenings

Thanks guys - you have given me lots of places to start. Some places like VT and NH I would have thought were still hot in the summer - it hits 80's and I am melting. A dry 80's may be different but the cooler the better!

We have been in Portland (OR) in late May and it hit 100 deg, and we were in Montreal in July and it was humid for a week. There is passing humidity, which you will find at some point nearly everywhere in North America and the constant oppressive humidity you find in the Southeast.

Coastal California would probably be your best bet for climate, but it doesn't fit your budget. IMO, this leaves New England and the Northwest. For natural beauty, I believe New England outshines the Northwest (admitted bias - I'm a northeasterner). Between the two, you'll need to make the choice between four distinct seasons, including a pretty harsh winter (NE) and a pleasant summer followed by 7-8 months with primairly overcast skies (NW). As for costs, the cites are expensive in each region. The further you go form the coast, however, the less expensive it becomes. With your budget, it looks like you'll be in a small town.

Good luck.

[ckhthankgod]

Keep in mind with Upstate NY, many of the areas are average, if not below average, in terms of cost of living. So, don't let the fact that it is NY fool you.