Moving to a new place - what do you look for?

[PMJ]

I'm definitely thinking IN ADVANCE, but wanted to know what you all consider when you move to a new place (new city, new state).

DD is only 9 months old now, but I don't think we will be here for too long.
I need to move on this and do some research so we have a plan in 1.5 yrs or so.

Here is what I was thinking I'd like to consider as our top priority:


1) Good public-school system (Feel free to share any good links. I found one, but the ranking differed w/elem, middle and h.s.).


2) Of course DH and I must be able to find jobs there

3) Good standard of living (balance of income/cost of living)

4) Climate (We can't stand the cold - so anything North of DC/MD is probably out).

Would love your input.

Many thanks!

PJ

[Momof3Labs]

Commute. Traffic, public transportation, etc.

[vonfirmath]

Proximity to favored people (relatives, say)

[HIU8]

Definitely commute and proximity to family (whether you want to be close or far) and proximity to things like parks,playgrounds,community centers.

[SnuggleBuggles]

Proximity to favored people (relatives, say)

That's a huge one for us and the reason we made our last move.

We want to be close to "things"- theater, museums, outdoor activities, major sports teams, parks, shopping dining... I don't like feeling like I live in a land of strip malls either. I like a more urban vibe.

I want to be where there are seasons. I can handle the cold b/c I know that summer will be great!

Echoing transportation, commute time (that is really big for me too- I don't want to live somewhere that I have to live way far out to afford it thus having a long commute and missing out on family time).

If you want to stay there, consider states that have good public universities.

Beth