Woodlands or Midtown

[mkwensky]

Originally Posted by 2016Grad

I'm currently seeking to understand what would be the better choice for me: living in The Woodlands, where my work is located, or living in Midtown 35+ minutes from my job.

I'm worried that if I live in the The Woodlands or Spring I won't get the cultural diversity of the city but that if I live in the city, the commute will be too much. I don't want to be bored out of my mind, but I also don't want to spend 2 hours a day in a car.

Also, if within the city, what neighborhoods or communities are recommended.

For some info about to me to provide insight for your suggestions:
-I attended school in Austin and enjoyed the coffee shop atmosphere and Rainey but I hardly ever found myself on 6th.
-I'm 22
-I'll be living alone
-Renting an apartment for sure
-I have a great appreciation for African American culture
-I don't plan to spend more than $1500 a month on rent but ideally would spend less.

I'd appreciate suggestions, thanks!

Somewhere in the Heights close to the 45 is probably the best bet for you. You don't need to live in midtown to enjoy its amenities.
Do not move to the Woodlands - people who say it has enough city amenities have no idea what 22 year olds who appreciate cultural diversity and coffee shop atmospheres want. Ask yourself if you would rather be home at 5:30 only to be bored for the rest of the evening or be home at 6:15 but have tons of options for activities later.

[colcat]

Originally Posted by mkwensky

Somewhere in the Heights close to the 45 is probably the best bet for you. You don't need to live in midtown to enjoy its amenities.
Do not move to the Woodlands - people who say it has enough city amenities have no idea what 22 year olds who appreciate cultural diversity and coffee shop atmospheres want. Ask yourself if you would rather be home at 5:30 only to be bored for the rest of the evening or be home at 6:15 but have tons of options for activities later.

What exactly is a "coffee shop atmosphere"?

[3shipguy]

Originally Posted by colcat

What exactly is a "coffee shop atmosphere"?

I'll take a stab at answering this. So lemme see, coffee shop atmosphere....it's an eclectic array of boho chic, hipsterdom, students pretending to study, some random suits, and the occasional homeless whiff all mingled with some non-pop easy going music. Amirite?

[testmo]

Coffee shop atmosphere - multiple different coffee shops that represent different types - quiet work ones, social creative coffee ones, laid back solid cup types, quick on the go grab types. All having great locally or fine roasted coffees that sell beans. Walkable or bikeable but heck take your car if you need to. Some offering art work, music or event nights

[vwgto]

If hanging at coffee shops is your thing, sounds like in-town wins. Most people, after the daily grind, would love to have time to run errands, work-out, or just ease into their evening vs. a long commute home. Get-up in the morning, and know you only have a short drive - - and can even run home for lunch if you want to. There is a huge quality-of-life element to living around the corner from work. If you find yourself driving in-town often for the compellingly unique amenities, change later - - but I'll wager that you will find that drive, when discretionary, to not be worth it most days (and particularly during the week).

[testmo]

Hes 22. That may be the only stage in his life he can live the city life he wants. Man, to give that up? youll regret it later in life

[vwgto]

...or look for a job in the city, and then find an area to live with great walk scores. Not all city living is created equal.

[PedroMartinez]

Originally Posted by mkwensky

Do not move to the Woodlands - people who say it has enough city amenities have no idea what 22 year olds who appreciate cultural diversity and coffee shop atmospheres want.

AKA, way less Tender hookups close by.