[Madamex1968]

I'm a massage therapist & baker who is thinking of moving to the NEK. Will I actually be able to make a living there, or should I plan on keeping my CDL and continuing to drive for a few more years, until the economy improves?

[Sherylcatmom]

Originally Posted by Madamex1968

I'm a massage therapist & baker who is thinking of moving to the NEK. Will I actually be able to make a living there, or should I plan on keeping my CDL and continuing to drive for a few more years, until the economy improves?

My spouse and I do bodywork in Rutland. It took us three years of treating tourists at the spas in Killington while building a private practice to make a go of it. Still, business is always up and down. (I also work in the nonprofit sector, too, which is by choice -- I prefer wide variety in my work, which is a good thing considering Vermont's economy.)

I think NEK doesn't have a Killington-type setting nearby to ensure some income. If you could build your practice while driving, it's possible you'll develop a viable business over time and be able to transition.

Do you plan on baking as well? I'm guessing there are always jobs for a baker, chef, and other skilled culinary folks, but I don't know what they pay.

[tkln]

I know that Jay Peak is doing some expanding - not sure if they are adding a spa? Could be something to look into...

[jackmccullough]

The Kingdom is both economically distressed and pretty sparsely populated, so it might be tough to make a go of it there.

I can tell you that massage therapists and other alternative healing types are pretty thick on the ground in Montpelier, so if you were to come here you might find the competition to be pretty stiff.