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Thanks for the help so far everyone. I've noticed that nobody has mentioned midwest cities. Let's put aside the weather criteria for a moment. Are there any in that region that work? Is the midwest really that unappealing from both a scenery and living POV?
Thanks for the help so far everyone. I've noticed that nobody has mentioned midwest cities. Let's put aside the weather criteria for a moment. Are there any in that region that work? Is the midwest really that unappealing from both a scenery and living POV?
I actually think that either metro Pittsburgh or metro Cleveland might work really well for you. They're close enough to water or mountains to get the tornadoes or severe hail very often. The Appalachian Mountains, well-known white-water rafting in West Virginia, and amazing lakes in Michigan and Upstate New York are within 4-5 hours of driving. Great Lakes beaches are very close, and even the Jersey Shore could be driven to in 7-9 hours. They've got symphonies and such cultural activities, and I think relatively low cost of living.
The one downside might be economic growth. I know Pittsburgh is rebounding quite nicely. Cleveland is a little bit behind, and I'm not sure about their unemployment rate. But either place might work out.
Note: People always recommend Austin, Denver, Seattle, Portland, and Minneapolis. So take it with a grain of salt.
Great NJ Philly suburbs include Moorestown, Cherry Hill, Haddonfield and Marlton. I don't recommend moving there based on your needs. Although close to the shore and mountains after driving several hours, So. Jersey's sell is its proximity to these amenities and the city. There's no nature to speak of in these towns except for small parks.
Thanks for the help so far everyone. I've noticed that nobody has mentioned midwest cities. Let's put aside the weather criteria for a moment. Are there any in that region that work? Is the midwest really that unappealing from both a scenery and living POV?
No, there are some appealing locations that meet most of your criteria except for the temps above 40 degrees and low humidity requirement.
I actually think that either metro Pittsburgh or metro Cleveland might work really well for you. They're close enough to water or mountains to get the tornadoes or severe hail very often. The Appalachian Mountains, well-known white-water rafting in West Virginia, and amazing lakes in Michigan and Upstate New York are within 4-5 hours of driving. Great Lakes beaches are very close, and even the Jersey Shore could be driven to in 7-9 hours. They've got symphonies and such cultural activities, and I think relatively low cost of living.
The one downside might be economic growth. I know Pittsburgh is rebounding quite nicely. Cleveland is a little bit behind, and I'm not sure about their unemployment rate. But either place might work out.
Note: People always recommend Austin, Denver, Seattle, Portland, and Minneapolis. So take it with a grain of salt.
Wait, are you saying that Cleve/Pitt DO get tornadoes or they don't? I want to avoid tornadoes if possible. I know some people like lightening storms but I can't imagine anyone would want to be in an area with twisters. Could be misreading what you're saying, however.
Quote:
Originally Posted by cubssoxfan
No, there are some appealing locations that meet most of your criteria except for the temps above 40 degrees and low humidity requirement.
Well, I can't imagine any place will meet all my criteria. I'm open to suggestions, especially if it's only a matter of weather. Weather is something I'm willing to trade for.
Wait, are you saying that Cleve/Pitt DO get tornadoes or they don't? I want to avoid tornadoes if possible. I know some people like lightening storms but I can't imagine anyone would want to be in an area with twisters. Could be misreading what you're saying, however.
I forgot a "not." Generally, Cleve/Pitt are at a low risk for tornadoes. They're possible just about anywhere east of the Rocky Mountains in the U.S., but not very common in these areas.
I would add Albuquerque to your short list. It meets or exceeds most of your list of "must haves" and is an hour away from Santa Fe (there is a commuter train). There are four seasons but it's generally sunny and mild...summers are warm but not hot or humid. There's plenty to do and home prices are low. Diversity is related to the three cultures here but it is a univrsity town (UNM) with an international district. The economy is struggling but that's largely due to government cutbacks -- it is highly dependent on government contracts and research (Sandia Labs, for example). The film/TV industry is growing. There is an Air Force base. There is a huge trail system and skiing is maybe an hour away. It isn't a huge place. The Bizjournal for Albuquerque can give you some business info.
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