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My boyfriend an I are developing a reputation as nomads-we keep moving. Honestly, we're both getting sick of it. Right now we live in Portland, Oregon and although we like a lot of things about this place (restaurants, bars, outdoor recreation, dog friendly) we definitely want to leave. The clouds are just killer here. We both get really bad seasonal depression so we really need to live somewhere sunny. So we're moving somewhere this summer, we're just not sure where. I've been poring over maps and websites but I'd really love some personal advice and opinions from some real people.
So here's what we're looking for:
1. The number one thing that we want is to be near the ocean, preferably in a town right on the ocean.
2. We want to eventually go back to college in whichever state we are living (same town isn't necessary) so there should be a good college somewhere in state.
3. Sunshine and lots of it. We prefer a warmer climate with little to no snow and lots of sunshine.
4. People our age. I'm 27 and my boyfriend is 25 and although we don't mind an older population, we would like there to be a strong community of young creative people there.
5. Job opportunities. I know that jobs are sparse everywhere and I make a portion of my living online but we would like to be somewhere with at least some opportunities for young people.
6. Affordable rental opportunities. We aren't looking to buy and we are looking for somewhere that an $800 rental isn't going to be disgusting. (I am aware that coastal towns are by nature expensive.)
7. Walkable.
8. Dog Friendly.
9. That undefinable something. I know, this is, by nature, impossible to define. But we're looking for a special place, somewhere that we can put down roots and become a part of the community.
I know that's a lot to ask for. IT may not exist. But if you know of any place that sounds like this, PLEASE tell me about it! And please give some details about the place.
Your 800 budget limits you wanting to be near the ocean. Best bet mississippi (gulfport, biloxi) or alabama (mobile) might fit based off of that criteria.
I am going to suggest a place about which I personally know nothing but a friend of mine moved for the same reasons you are needing to.
She lived in Portland for eight years and developed serious SAD and although she tried medical treatment could not beat it. Her solution was to relocate to Jacksonville Florida and she loves it there. She is near a beach and was able to find a job right away with the Mayo Clinic.
Now I do not know if that would suit your needs or if that isn't a good place to be. I am only offering it as a suggestion because moving there made all the difference in the world for her and she is very happy with the COL, climate, her job and she even met the man she has been married to for the past ten years so I think she also likes the people.
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