don't know where to go (Charlotte, Raleigh: apartments, low crime, new home)

[xraydude]

I have been considering moving out of NH for a while and have been looking at different states. NC has been one of those states. Other states I have considered are SC, CO, KS, and AL. I know that is a lot to take in. So I am looking to get as much info as possible to do my comparisons. The info I am looking to get is mostly job pay, ( I am an x-ray tech.) rent,( 1 bdrm apt. w/cat ) and overall cost of living for general areas. Anyone that would like to tell about there areas of living would be great. Thanks for all your help...
RB

[hymnsinger]

Boone is a great place to live, lots of medical services here, low crime, lots to do for single young adults, college town (Appalachian State, GREAT football!!!), mid to high priced housing of the size you need, larger housing (2 & 3 bedrooms) is almost unaffordable for families or single parents. You can live in town with a great city/college bus system (appal-cart), or out in the county for country privacy, peace & quiet. There are many apartment opportunities in country settings, esp. private basement apartments.

Before you move anywhere, put in your apps/resume' and get that job first! Don't try to move here (or anywhere) without firm employment already set. Many people move here expecting to find a job and before two months have passed they are living at the Hospitality House, and it's NOT a motel! It's the only homeless shelter in Watauga county, always full, and hard to get into. I have food pantry clients living in cars and campers that tried to make a move with no savings and no job. Have three months living expenses, MINIMUM, firm employment and you'll be ok. Good luck in your search for a new home!

When I first moved here, I contacted potential employers via email. I ended up working as an assistant director for a wilderness camp, housing and utilities included. It was just enough to get me established. My son and I lived at the camp until early October, then rented an empty summer home for the winter. That was in 1999, and I've never looked back! I absolutely love it here and would hate to ever leave it. Those low-landers can keep their heat, humidity, and bugs! I haven't seen a German cockroach in 8 years! Praise God, Hallelujah!

[brokensky]

The problem w/ Boone is that there is not a shortage of Xray techs there. I agree - wonderful place to live! My DS would like to stay there, but the pay is much lower for nuclear medicine in that region than in other parts of the country.

I would suggest any major city in NC - such as Charlotte or Raleigh. Again, your pay will depend on availability of techs. However, great benefits w/ the systems here . . . and excellent work conditions.

In addition - you mentioned Kansas. I would highly recommend that you check out Johnson County, Kansas (Overland Park area). Wonderful cost of living and terrific hospitals in the region. I have lived there and pay is good for techs. Housing is reasonable, very low crime and upscale lifestyle.

My son would love to move to Charleston, SC but again - no shortage there. However, check w/ the systems around that area and see what the situation is. Cost of living may be somewhat higher, but lifestyle is great if you like the coastal region. Other lowcost regions w/ good housing would be Greensville/ Spartanburg, SC, if you like the mountains.

If you consider AL - check out Huntsville and Birmingham.

I hope you will consider Charlotte or the RDU area . . . lots of great places to live w/ decent salaries and weather - and access to beaches and mountains, as well - plus universities if you want to pick up more education along the way . . .