Interested in Moving to Philly from NOVA-help! (Philadelphia, York: apartments, rentals)

[tarak88]

I was born and raised here in Northern, VA and the only time I was away was in college and that was just 4 hours down south. I graduated in May and just finished an internship and now I need to LEAVE!

I am looking for a city that is a hybrid between New York and DC, with a diverse population, great public transportation, a rich culture, favorable location (East Coastline) and relatively cheap living. I have heard that Philadelphia meets much of my criteria.

I am a very laid back person that wants to be around art, music, dance, and a young and educated population. I also would love to know what part of Philly to focus my attention on and where to look for room mates! Thanks so much for your help!

[FindingZen]

I've been living in NOVA for the last five years. Is there an DC/VA/MD equivalent that you'd like to find?

Also, what is your budget to rent/share a space? Philly is less expensive but the "best" apartments can still rise above $1000.

It would be helpful if you had an idea of where you would be working. It would be "easy" to recommend many neighborhoods in Center City (downtown) but not if you snag a job in King of Prussia, Philly's version of Tysons Corner.

[tarak88]

I'm not really looking for a VA equivalent....something new and fresh. But I don't mind similarities.

My job situation is an issue within itself-i don't know whether to try to find a job first and then move or move, find a quick temporary thing, and then search for something more long term. I am a marketing major and would like to find something relating to that but I really am not picky at this point.

My budget is a bit tight. What are your thoughts on my job concerns?
thanks so much for your help

[FindingZen]

Originally Posted by tarak88

I'm not really looking for a VA equivalent....something new and fresh. But I don't mind similarities.

My job situation is an issue within itself-i don't know whether to try to find a job first and then move or move, find a quick temporary thing, and then search for something more long term. I am a marketing major and would like to find something relating to that but I really am not picky at this point.

My budget is a bit tight. What are your thoughts on my job concerns?
thanks so much for your help

No matter where you relocate, it's always more beneficial to have a job lined up...unless you have family or friends here that would understand an initially uneven contribution to the household.

I'm not sure what jobs would specifically be available for marketing majors around here. (Perhaps others here have an idea?) Generally speaking, it won't surprise you that there are more opportunities out in the 'burbs, health care notwithstanding. Yet you will find neighborhoods in and near Center City to have what you're looking for during your downtime.

Without specifics on rent budget or job location, it's really difficult to give recommendations.

To be honest, as hard it is may be to hear it, you're already living in one of the better job markets in the country. Have you discounted enduring another few years in NOVA in order to establish your career?

[pman]

philly sounds right up your alley. idisagree with tone. once youre established it becomes harder to moce...the time is now. if you have a free place to stay in nova you could take cheap buses up to do your job searching

[kyle19125]

The job situation in Philadelphia is rather tough and there is a well documented "brain-drain" situation here where a high percentage of area college graduates move on because of lack of opportunity. Otherwise the city does somewhat fulfill what you're looking for although it would be good to get your interpretation of the descriptive diverse as the definition varies. Philadelphia has moved out of the category of "relatively cheap living" over the past several years as it's been "discovered" by many from NYC and to a lesser extent DC as a less expensive place to live. The most desirable areas of the city to live and that have the qualities you seek, are no longer cheap. Just as an FYI in terms of exploring all options, you might consider Boston. Neighborhoods like East Boston, Jamaica Plain and Somerville have the vibe you're looking for and plenty of decent rentals in the under $1000 range. I'm not dissing living here, just think you should explore all options. Good luck!

[pman]

Originally Posted by kyle19125

The job situation in Philadelphia is rather tough and there is a well documented "brain-drain" situation here where a high percentage of area college graduates move on because of lack of opportunity. Otherwise the city does somewhat fulfill what you're looking for although it would be good to get your interpretation of the descriptive diverse as the definition varies. Philadelphia has moved out of the category of "relatively cheap living" over the past several years as it's been "discovered" by many from NYC and to a lesser extent DC as a less expensive place to live. The most desirable areas of the city to live and that have the qualities you seek, are no longer cheap. Just as an FYI in terms of exploring all options, you might consider Boston. Neighborhoods like East Boston, Jamaica Plain and Somerville have the vibe you're looking for and plenty of decent rentals in the under $1000 range. I'm not dissing living here, just think you should explore all options. Good luck!

I am looking for a city that is a hybrid between New York and DC

I'd imagine the OP wants to be able to visit home easily and philly certainly offers that. the so called brain drain seems mainly to apply to the city itself, rather than the region. for what the OP is looking for, Philly is probably a better option for it than it's been in decades. boston is also a great town, though it is far more expensive and further away. you get a much nicer apt here for $1400/mo than boston. I'll always remember my buddy's north end apt ($1400/mo) that was a five story walkup, ancient, and had a hot water heater in the middle of the kitching/dining area!

[tarak88]

I appreciate all your suggestions. I definitely have considered other cities such as Boston but Philly seems to be an ideal location for me on many levels. Any advice on the best way to go about finding young roommates?

[FindingZen]

Originally Posted by tarak88

I appreciate all your suggestions. I definitely have considered other cities such as Boston but Philly seems to be an ideal location for me on many levels. Any advice on the best way to go about finding young roommates?

PhiladelphiaWeekly.com, CityPaper.net and that list that Craig compiles.

[pcity]

Interesting move. Most people I know (including myself) have done the opposite- moving to the DC area to find work, because the PA job market just can't compare. There are so many Philadelphia area natives here in NoVA. Best of luck though.