Don't know... (Phoenix, Tempe: condo, home, job market)

[Daave829]

So, I've lived in Chicago for 24 out of my 25 year lifespan. I'm currently attending ASU, for Web Design/Web Development. I moved to Tempe a year ago, around this time. So, I've been doing some thinking, mostly about my next move. So, since I have one year left of my education to the point where I'll be graduating. I'm thinking of moving again, definitely wanting to stay out west of course. So, my question is does anybody have any recommendations for where I should move next for job opportunity wise. Now I do have friends in NYC (Eh), LA, and Seattle, and I have been thinking about moving to Austin, San Diego, or Seattle. But, I'm not so sure on LA, is it all it's cracked up to be? Also, one of my good friends who lives back in Chicago, is wanting to move to San Diego or Seattle and he's a massage therapist and a yoga instructor. I could definitely get a place with him of course in either of those areas.

[MZ9924]

Im from san diego... its a nice place but its super expensive here. the job market is tough and if you want to own a home in a decent area thats tough too. If you think you will make enough go for it. But definitely ask some questions on the san diego forum.

[sargeant79]

I don't think you could go wrong with any of those, but there are huge differences in cost of living.

San Diego is a great city...totally different vibe from Chicago or Phoenix. As MZ9924 said, it really is ridiculously expensive though. Not sure what part of Chicago you're from, but most of the city is on par with the Gold Coast or the North Shore if you're talking about the cost of a condo or a house, if not even more than that. If you could afford it, that's where I would recommend.

I've been to Seattle but not as familiar with it as some other cities. People who I know that live there absolutely love it, although my understanding is that the housing costs there aren't far behind what San Diego has. It really does rain a ton there though, so if you have gotten acclimated to the sun out here in AZ it might not be for you.

Austin is a great city with a very reasonable cost of living. I'm personally not a huge fan of Texas, but Austin city is not really like the rest of Texas. It tends to be more open minded and has a very good music/nightlife scene. Someone in your age range would probably really love it.

[BIG CATS]

Austin sounds like a good fit for you. Its cheap, fun for the younger crowd, has decent terrain nearby for outdoor activities, etc. I would recommend San Diego the most, but as others have stated, its overpriced to the point of being laughable.