Every now and then, a friend, colleague, or even family member will tell you they are moving to a new city to start over. This is not a new concept, and people do it all the time. Wondering which cities offer great opportunities for someone looking to start over? Here are a few suggestions you may want to try.
1. Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville is the largest and most populated city in Florida. This city is ideal for active singles looking to indulge in what it offers. From the urban park systems to the beaches and vibrant art scene, there is so much to explore here. The cost of living index is set at 91, which is 9% below the national average. In terms of housing, the prices are reasonable, at an average of 160 per sq ft. The houses have been built to standard, considering that Florida has one of the toughest building codes in the U.S. The unemployment rate is also below the national average, with plenty of job opportunities in auto parts and accessories manufacturing, and import-export operations.
2. Boise, Idaho
Every year, about 13% to 20% of the population moves. This is something that businesses take advantage of because it means they have a 13% to 20% chance of attracting new customers via signage. But business aside, Boise is a great choice for anyone looking for an active lifestyle. The city boasts over 180 miles of public trails for running, mountain biking, and hiking. Even better, this is a great place to enjoy wineries and whitewater rafting. In terms of work opportunities, the city has a three percent rate of unemployment, and the cost of living is at the same level as the national average. While tech lovers can look for jobs at MarkMonitor and Microsoft, the city is also advanced in food production, manufacturing, outdoor recreation, and energy industries.
3. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh is a great town to make your new home. The city used to be the hotbed for the steel industry but is now famous for autonomous vehicles, robotics, life sciences technology, information technology, and advanced manufacturing. The rate of unemployment is 6.6%, but techies should have no issue finding job opportunities. The cost of living is great. If you are looking to buy a new home, you have nothing to worry about, as houses are reasonably priced.
4. Portland, Maine
Portland is Maine’s largest city, with a population of approximately 69,000 people. The city has been ranked among the top 100 best cities to stay in, and if you move here, you’ll see why. The food scene is heavenly, with a wide range of meals from local lobsters, wood-fired pizza, French cuisine, and Korean barbecue. If you are a weed lover, you’ll be happy to know that it’s legal. In Maine, users can consume cannabis for recreational purposes, as long as it’s within a private residence or property. The art space is also vibrant, with multiple venues for different activities. The unemployment rate is 5.2%, which is below the nation’s average, and job growth has been positive over the last few years.
5. Cleveland, Ohio
There are so many things to love about Cleveland, starting with the affordable housing market. On average, homes listed in this city cost about $69 per sq ft. The cost of living is also sitting at 84%. Therefore, it goes without saying that if you are looking for a place to start over and recover financially, Cleveland is the place to go. The city has a great healthcare system and a robust economy with various industries like financial services, manufacturing, and IT. For your recreational activities, you’ll find Cleveland pretty accommodating, with multiple museums, art galleries, different types of bars and restaurants, and theaters.
People move to new cities to start over for various reasons. If you’re ready to take such a step, the cities mentioned above are some of the best places you can consider. Start exploring today!