Poll: where should we move?

berriesnpie

Let's Play: Where would you move? 

We're starting to talk more seriously about moving from DC. The catalyst is our loser landlord but mostly, we just miss living in smaller cities with a more casual, friendly culture. All of our previous relocations have been directed by job/school/family. I'm really enjoying the idea of moving just b/c we like a place. So, here's a poll of some of the towns I'm thinking about. Where would you like to live, and why?

[Poll]

thiswillbe

I don't know enough about any of these cities to vote, but it sounds like you have some good places on the list! I think it is great that a move of this nature is even a possibility-- we're so tied to the DC area because of what we do for work, we feel like we'll never really be able to move... GL!

JoySeattle

I said Portland, but would also vote for Seattle (where we are), Oakland, Canada (not anywhere but certain cities depending on your preference for size, culture, etc). Good luck with your decision and keep us posted!

berriesnpie

Thanks ladies. Actually, we both really really like our jobs and that's been the main reason we haven't moved in the past 5 years. But neither of us particularly likes DC and that I think that dislike has finally become enough of a motivator to start thinking about moving, even if it means taking jobs we love less. 

I'd love your thoughts on Canadian cities...that's probably my long-term fantasy.

In general, our main priorities are: affordability, a good cultural fit, ethnic diversity and integration, second parent adoptions, small to medium-sized and minimal racism and homophobia.  

flexiblebride

You should give Anchorage, Alaska a try.  Seriously.

NicJen424

Sacramento is GREAT! I live in Roseville (approx 20 min from Downtown Sac) and while I LOVE Roseville I would also love love love to live in downtown Sacramento. Its a great urban area but still has a little small town, lots of trees and green feel to it. Plus you are 2 hours to the beach (and SF) and 2 hours to the snow.  

KatiesCats

You mention affordability.  I just moved back east from California (I was in Morgan Hill, in the South Bay) and we mostly moved because it was oppressively expensive.  We couldn't afford anything besides the necessities!

I hear that Sacramento is a bit better, but realistically, most of California is just insane.  I know DC is expensive, but I promise CA is more.  I didn't listen to anyone who told me this before I moved there...I wish I had!

I'm not telling you not to move there...just do a LOT of financial research before you do.

And if I could live anywhere right now, it'd def be DC   I grew up in Baltimore and always felt like it was the dirty stepchild of DC.  DC's got the culture, government, public transit, the history...Baltimore has dirt and crime.