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I'm originally from WI, but have been living in Las Vegas for the past 11 years or so. I like living in Vegas, but I've been here for so long that I kind of want to get out and try something new for a little while. Due to some obligations, I have to stay put until 2011, but after that, I'll have the opportunity to relocate for a couple years (or more, I suppose, if I end up liking my new location better).
I'm not 100% sure if I want to move or not yet, but I want to start researching some cities to see if there are any great fits out there. I was hoping you all could do your thing and recommend some places for me to look into.
Criteria:
-I prefer a more suburban environment. I'm used to living in clean, new, master-planned communities and I really like that aspect of where I am now. I'm open to considering denser cities, as long as the metro area includes some nice, well-manicured suburbs within a decent commute. (I know, I know, most of you are cringing right now, but urban living isn't for everyone!)
-There should be a good population of people in their 20s. I'm young and single and would prefer a place where it's easy to meet other people my age.
-Decent weather is a must. Although I prefer warm weather, I'd be willing to consider a 4 season climate. I just can't tolerate extreme cold. So I don't want anywhere with long, gloomy, frigid cold winters (so nothing like WI).
-I'm a pretty health-conscious person, so being in a place where people care about being healthy is a plus. Whole Foods type stores, biking trails, lots of gyms, etc. would be good.
-I want a total metro population of at least 500,000. No small towns for me. A healthy growth rate is good, but I'm not fond of overcrowding where they tightly pack in as many houses as humanly possible and force millions of people onto the same few highways. So I guess I'm looking for well-planned growth and good infrastructure.
-I don't care too much about political ideology for the most part. I'm not very political and can get along with almost anyone. That said, I have more moderate views and would prefer to avoid the absolute extremes.
-I prefer to drive, so public transportation isn't a concern. Schools aren't a concern either (no kids).
-Cost isn't a huge issue.
Any suggestions for places to research?
So far, I think I might like Denver and San Diego. I haven't researched them yet, but they sound like they could fit. Aside from those, I don't really know where else to look.
Beat me to it - exactly the place that came to my mind, too. Though it does exceed the 500,000 person limit, it's not an out of control large city, either. Younger folks/mindset. Funky. Strong music/entertainment scene. Warm climate, yadda yadda.
Why start now? With the way the economy is I expect things to be much different by 2011. GM and Chrysler are going into bankruptcy. What other major corporations will disappear? Losing a major source of employment can be devastating for a city. Gas prices will probably by WAY up and that will have a major effect on where you choose to live. One thing I am sure of is your going to want to get out of Vegas before it dries up.
Location: Concrete jungle where dreams are made of.
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Quote:
Originally Posted by atlantagreg30127
Beat me to it - exactly the place that came to my mind, too. Though it does exceed the 500,000 person limit, it's not an out of control large city, either. Younger folks/mindset. Funky. Strong music/entertainment scene. Warm climate, yadda yadda.
Beat me to it - exactly the place that came to my mind, too. Though it does exceed the 500,000 person limit, it's not an out of control large city, either. Younger folks/mindset. Funky. Strong music/entertainment scene. Warm climate, yadda yadda.
500,000 was actually a minimum metro size, not a maximum.
I don't mind large cities (my current metro is 2 million), I just don't like cities that feel super-crowded.
You know this how? God, you're unbelievable.
(Note to OP: she has not been to Texas ever before.) You will find just as many gyms and healthfood stores as any other place. Austin is where Lance Armstrong does his training to give you an idea that biking is a popular activity somewhat.
Last edited by Westerner92; 05-19-2009 at 08:51 PM..
-I prefer a more suburban environment. I'm used to living in clean, new, master-planned communities and I really like that aspect of where I am now. I'm open to considering denser cities, as long as the metro area includes some nice, well-manicured suburbs within a decent commute. (I know, I know, most of you are cringing right now, but urban living isn't for everyone!)
-There should be a good population of people in their 20s. I'm young and single and would prefer a place where it's easy to meet other people my age.
Suburbs aren't generally known for young singles. Suburbs are known for families with kids who come home, park in their garage, and watch TV.
Yeah. That's what I was afraid of too. But then I actually looked at some potential suburban areas and it seems that many have a good 15-20% of the population in their 20s and a good 25-35% single. Not bad.
Additionally, I wouldn't be opposed to going downtown for nightlife and social stuff.
Anyway, so far San Diego and Denver are still looking good, and I've added Austin to my list to research. Any thoughts on Dallas? I know that it's a lot bigger than the other metros I'm looking at, but if things are planned out well so that it doesn't feel super crowded (I'm basically trying to avoid LA-type scenarios), that could be a possibility. What about Sacramento as an alternative to San Francisco (my budget is fairly high, but SF may be a bit too expensive)? And I think I'll stop there, because I have a feeling that I'm starting to get into questions that would be better for the local boards.
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