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I'm from southeast PA and have been around nearly every corner of the state (except Pittsburgh), and I just don't feel much of a connection. Never lived outside PA so I have no comparison, but I've visited some places.
I'm in med school now so I have a few years to think this out, but my general criteria:
- City or near-city town. Not crazy expensive (read about some cities like SF, Portland, and Seattle radically changing due to spike in costs). Low crime (has anyone ever asked to live in a high crime area )
- Mild to colder areas. I sweat pretty easily.
- Walkable. I'm in a place now that's car-centric and it's bothersome.
- Culture isn't too insular. I know it's kind of vague, but I definitely felt like an outsider when stopping by New England. (Maybe it's more of an issue with me )
- Strong support for arts + music scene. I love everything from indie pop to jazz, and would like to help local artists. DIY scene presence is a plus.
- Laws are not too strict on firearms. I'm politically moderate though.
Considered the PNW for years but it seems like everyone and their grandmother want to go there, so maybe not...
Check out Pittsburgh is you haven't tried it. It's actually a pretty good area. I'd check out Cleveland and Cincinnati too.
I definitely want to swing by Pittsburgh sometime. I'm wondering if Amazon will pick it as an HQ. I wonder if that will make it like another Seattle?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Greg10556
Minneapolis is a great place. Checks most off your list.
I’ve been a handful times and always love it, very friendly city
My friend goes there all the time and loves it.
Quote:
Originally Posted by jrs2
Besides the strong gun laws, Chicago wouldn't be such a bad idea.
Despite the democratic machine, you'll find most people are individually politically moderate for the most part.
I'm surprised to hear that to be honest! I figured there was just an insane divide between Chicago and the rest of the state, but it's good to hear more moderate folks about
Quote:
Originally Posted by ckhthankgod
Cleveland may actually work...
I'll drive through it in a week or two. Get a look-see.
Places like Royal Oak or Ferndale would particularly meet your needs.
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