seriously thinking about relocating

[WannaBrie]

ok, well, I'm getting sick of the deal here in Fl. My ins. co. just informed me that I'll be dumped and my agent says my only option if the state run ins. co. which wants double what I've been paying. I don't think I want to live here anymore, so I've been looking into relocating to somewhere else here in the south. (can't do cold weather!!) I'm thinking either Dallas/ft. worth or Pheonix. Anyone got any advise on this? I've never been to either of these places, but after doing some research on the job opportunities, both locations look good. Plus, cost of living and stuff looks good at either location. Anyone in these areas have any advice?

[SurfPark]

This isn't really related to graphic design overall, so instead of discussing it I'll point you to some resources. Money Magazine publishes their annual "Best Places to Live" list (http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bplive/2006/index.html), which might be a place to start. CityRating.com (http://www.cityrating.com/) and FindYourSpot.com (http://www.findyourspot.com/) are also sites that could help.

I'm a strong believer that you need to move somewhere for a reason. Don't just abandon your location because you're sick of it. Find a location that offers the lifestyle and the job possibilities you want before you ever consider moving somewhere.

I'm assuming you're a designer since you're part of this community, so I would strongly suggest visiting some locations and asking about their design communities. Unless you're a strict freelancer, it may be hard to move somewhere and find work easily. The DMOZ Directory has a graphic design company listings by state (http://dmoz.org/Business/Business_Services/Design/Graphic_Design/Designers/Multi-Discipline/North_America/United_States/). You want to at least build a relationship with a company or other designers in your desired location so that you'll have an idea of what you're getting into. In my experience, its good to be in a metro area because odds are in your favor. More people and companies usually means more job possibilities.

I understand your plight. I still consider moving out of my state into some dream-like tropical setting where I'm earning top dollar and have a lot of freedom and power in my career. Don't be an escapist. Everywhere in this country shares at least a few similar threads which translates to having the same problems no matter where you relocate. Be smart, do your homework, and make a wise decision.

[Riya]

Start putting out applications to anywhere that looks good anyplace. Make your desicion based on the offers you get. At least that's how I'd do it.