Hello, daddydon-ga!
As an east coast transplant to the West, I can sympathize with your
desire to escape the humidity. Most of the places I am suggesting to
you are towns or small cities that I am familiar with. For the most
part, they are western towns that are northern in location. Having
lived in the east and the midwest, I simply cannot think of any places
in those areas that lack the heat and humidity factor during the
summer!
My husband is also an avid fisherman so I am pretty aware of the
fishing potential of these locations! We are both outdoor enthusiasts,
so areas with hiking, biking, swimming, boating, cross-country skiing,
etc. are always tops on our lists. A safe, down-to-earth community
that has some vibrancy as well as a small-town feel is important to us
as well.
While there are many small towns that might interest you, these are
the suggestions that come to "my" mind. However, this is just a start!
I have included additional links at the bottom of my answer that
offer other "small town" or "small city" suggestions" so you can
continue the search! I am sure you will also find many suggestions in
the comments section once I post my answer so keep checking back.
***********
WASHINGTON
***********
LIBERTY LAKE
=============
Liberty Lake was incorporated in 2001. It is a nice, little, family
town on the outskirts of Spokane.
About Liberty Lake
http://www.libertylakewa.gov/about.asp
Community History
http://www.libertylakewa.gov/city_history.asp
Population Profile
http://www.libertylakewa.gov/documents/2005%20Statistical%20Snapshot.pdf
CASHMERE / WENATCHEE / LEAVENWORTH
====================================
I know people who live in this area and have heard nothing but good!
It is quite idyllic.
Map
http://visitcashmere.stores.yahoo.net/gettinghere.html
About Cashmere
http://www.visitcashmere.com/aboutus.html
About Wenatchee
http://www.wenatchee.org/
Relocation Information Quick Facts
http://www.wenatchee.org/quickfacts.htm
Schools
http://www.wenatchee.org/schools.htm
About Leavenworth
http://www.cityofleavenworth.com/
http://www.cityofleavenworth.com/communityinfo.htm
http://www.leavenworth.org/relocation/relocation.html
TWISP
======
"Located at the confluence of the Twisp and Methow rivers, the town of
Twisp is a year-around paradise that offers abundant sunshine,
generous snowfall and plenty of wildlife including bald eagles,
white-tailed and mule deer, cougars, bears, even occasional elk and
moose. If outdoor recreation is your passion, Twisp is definitely the
place to be with four seasons of fun that include mountain biking,
hiking, horseback riding, skiing, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing and
much more. Founded in 1897, Twisp is the largest town in the Methow
Valley with an eclectic mix of approximately 1,000 residents that
includes artists, musicians, writers, ranchers, farmers, entrepreneurs
and outdoor enthusiasts, among others. Needless to say, Twisp has a
dynamic - yet laid back - atmosphere and a refreshing amount of
culture and night life. Throughout the year, you can enjoy art
exhibits at a number of local galleries, as well as live music,
dining, shopping and our Farmer's Market, which runs from April
through October. Numerous events are also held during throughout the
year. Whether you're just passing through, choosing that perfect
vacation destination or looking for a great place to live, Twisp has
what you're looking for."
http://www.twispinfo.com/
http://www.twispinfo.com/services.html
http://www.city-data.com/city/Twisp-Washington.html
More demographics
http://homes.point2.com/Neighborhood/US/Washington/Okanogan-County/Twisp-Demographics.aspx
*********
MONTANA
*********
I don't think you can go wrong in Montana - seriously! But, it is
definitely a slower pace of life than the east coast. Consider areas
around Helena, Missoula, and Bozeman. While the population is growing
in all these areas, they still feel like small communities.
Map of Montana
http://visitmt.com/tripplanner/wheretogo/destinations.asp
BOZEMAN area (including Belgrade and Manhattan)
=================================================
This entire area is abolutely beautiful with plenty of fishing,
skiing, biking, hiking, etc, plus the educational perks from Montana
State University and a diversity of people - both old-timers and those
who have relocated from the west coast. Bozeman has gotten quite
expensive but the nearby towns of Belgrade and Manhattan are still
very affordable and all the amenities of Bozeman are within a few
miles.
About Bozeman and the surrounding towns:
http://www.bozemanchamber.com/relocation/
Bozeman Population: 32,414
Gallatin County Population: 78,210
Montana State University Enrollment: 11,314
Elevation: 4,810'
Average Cost of Home (3BR, 2BA):
Bozeman City - $321,519
Bozeman Suburbs Under 1 Acre - $275,829
Bozeman Suburbs Over 1 Acre - $419,464
Belgrade City - $200,131
Belgrade Suburbs Under 1 Acre - $200,838
Belgrade Suburbs Over 1 Acre - $233,400
Unemployment Rate: 3.2%
Per Capita Personal Income: $26,442
Median Family Income: $54,053
Airlines serving Gallatin Field: Delta Connection, Northwest, Horizon,
United Express
Surrounding Communities: Belgrade, Manhattan, Three Forks, Big Sky,
West Yellowstone, Livingston
Photos
http://www.bozemanchamber.com/photos/?CATEGORY_ID=39
Questions about Bozeman
http://www.bozemanchamber.com/FAQ/
Schools
http://www.bozemanchamber.com/business_members/businesslist/bycat/?buscode=SG
Crime (scroll down)
http://www.city-data.com/city/Bozeman-Montana.html
=
See Sperlings Best Places for more about Bozeman
http://www.bestplaces.net/city/profile.aspx?city=Bozeman_MT
"As of 2005, Bozeman's population is 32,414 people. Since 2000, it has
had a population growth of 15.75 percent. The median home cost in
Bozeman is $215,500. Home appreciation the last year has been up 10.58
percent. Compared to the rest of the country, Bozeman's cost of living
is 2.00% higher than the U.S. average. Bozeman public schools spend
$4,975 per student. The average school expenditure in the U.S. is
$6,058. There are about 15 students per teacher in Bozeman. The
unemployment rate in Bozeman is 2.40 percent (U.S. avg. is 5%). Recent
job growth is 3.53 percent."
HELENA
=======
Helena is another lovely location with a small town feel. It is the
state capitol and home to Carrol College. There are several reservoirs
for fishing, swimming and boating. The Missouri River flows nearby as
well!
About Helana (includes weather and crime index)
http://www.city-data.com/city/Helena-Montana.html
From Sperling's Best Places
http://www.bestplaces.net/city/profile.aspx?city=Helena_MT
"As of 2005, Helena's population is 27,196 people. Since 2000, it has
had a population growth of 6.39 percent. The median home cost in
Helena is $176,500. Home appreciation the last year has been up 10.58
percent. Compared to the rest of the country, Helena's cost of living
is 5.00 % lower than the U.S. average. Helena public schools spend
$5,101 per student. The average school expenditure in the U.S. is
$6,058. There are about 18 students per teacher in Helena. The
unemployment rate in Helena is 3.70 percent (U.S. avg. is 5%).
Guide to Helana
http://www.bigskyfishing.com/Montana-Info/helena_mt.shtm
MISSOULA
==========
Another lovely place! Lots of fishing, hiking, and upbeat atmoshphere
since it is home to the University of Montana. This is a growing area.
The only downfall is that it can get "socked in" during the winter.
Many westerners hate this. Easterners are used to it!
Quick overview
http://www.missoulian.com/uncover/about_missoula.php
Population
http://www.missoulian.com/uncover/population.php
Weather
http://www.missoulian.com/uncover/weather.php
Schools
http://www.missoulian.com/uncover/schools_k12.php
Outdoors
http://www.missoulian.com/uncover/outdoors.php
Click on all the links!
=
Missoula statistics from CNN MOney "Best Places to live."
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bplive/2006/snapshots/PL3050200.html
=
Missoula Real Estate Guide
http://www.mindypalmer.com/about.html
"Deep in the Montana Rockies, nestled in the heart of five valleys,
is a community along an ancient river bed. The town in this serene
mountain setting on the Clark Fork River is known as Missoula, a
Salish Native American term for "the area by cold waters.
"Montana is known as the "Sportsman?s Paradise," and the Missoula area
is no exception. Outdoor enthusiasts find a plethora of activities in
and just outside the city?s environs. Hunters pursue deer, elk, upland
birds, waterfowl and other wild game, all within close proximity to
town. Freshwater fishing off access paths outside of town or in town
on either the Clark Fork or Bitterroot Rivers, is noted as some of the
best in the nation.
"Also known as the "Garden City" for its populous trees and plentiful
flower gardens, Missoula is the shopping, recreation, entertainment
and education hub of Western Montana. Bike trails are so ample that
Missoula is rated as one of America?s top biking cities. Also, golfers
find sufficient variety in playing the five area courses."
Read further...
********
IDAHO
********
Map of Idaho
http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/i/travel/dg/maps/e7/750x750_idaho_m.gif
POST FALLS
===========
"Post Falls is located four miles east of the Washington-Idaho border
along Interstate 90 in Kootenai County and is bounded by Coeur
d?Alene, Idaho to the east, the State of Washington to the west, the
Spokane River to the south and the Rathdrum prairie to the north.
Post Falls is 20 miles east of Spokane, Washington and approximately
100 miles south of the Canadian border.
"The City of Post Falls has grown from 7,350 residents in 1990 to an
estimated 18,000 in 2001. This influx of new residents has resulted
in a strong construction industry, with total building permit
valuations in the City exceeding $28,000,000 for the past five years.
Residential and commercial construction activity has leveled off
somewhat, with a small spike in FY 01, but it should continue at a
level similar to prior years.
See http://www.postfallsidaho.org/citystats.htm
Relocation and Mortgage data statistics
http://www1.relocate-america.com/states/ID/cities/postfalls.htm
http://www.postfallschamber.com/postfallschamber/sub.aspx?id=4316
http://www.postfallschamber.com/postfallschamber/sub.aspx?id=785
http://www.nextag.com/home-mortgage/2/ID/Post-Falls.html
Crime Data (scroll down)
http://www.city-data.com/city/Post-Falls-Idaho.html
POCATELLO
==========
"The city of Pocatello is located in southeast Idaho and nestled at
4,448 feet in the western foothills of the Rocky Mountains along the
Oregon Trail. Pocatello has an unusually desirable four-season climate
where clear, sunny and dry is the norm."
http://www.pocatelloidaho.com/AreaInfo.asp
"The population of Pocatello is 51,466 and Chubbuck has 9,700. Bannock
County has an approximate population of about 77,181 in 1,112 square
miles (69 persons per square mile).
http://www.pocatelloidaho.com/AreaInfo.asp?ID=28
"Pocatello has an unusually desirable four-season climate where clear,
sunny and dry is the norm. Less than 15 inches of precipitation falls
annually. Summers are dry and warm with the July mean temperature at
72.4 degrees. The average daily temperature during the winter months
is 35.4 degrees."
http://www.pocatelloidaho.com/AreaInfo.asp?ID=21
"The cost of living in Pocatello is well below the national average
for groceries, housing, utilities, transportation and miscellaneous
goods and services. A median-priced home in Pocatello is less than
$108,000. Apartments rent from $400 to $600 per month."
http://www.pocatelloidaho.com/AreaInfo.asp?ID=22
Education
http://www.pocatelloidaho.com/AreaInfo.asp?ID=23
Crime Data (scroll down)
http://www.city-data.com/city/Pocatello-Idaho.html
********
OREGON
********
BEND area
==========
"Located in central Oregon at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains,
Bend is an energetic city with a fast growing population of over
70,328. Bend is noted for its vibrant downtown area, scenic setting,
mild climate, year-round recreation and growing economy. At an
elevation of 3,625 feet, the city covers 32 square miles."
http://www.bend.or.us/
Bend At a Glance
http://www.bendchamber.org/relocation/ataglance1.asp
Visit Bend
http://www.visitbend.com/
"Bend is a land of extremes and contrasts - desert and forest, lava
and snow, volcanoes and plains, rustic and urban hip. Everyone here
mixes and mingles in a big happy soup pot of snowboarders and
professionals, families in shorts and sandals and couples in casual
chic, locals and visitors. Maybe that's why people in Bend are so
friendly - because most of them were visitors first, too."
http://www.visitbend.com/Discover_Bend_Oregon/History_Facts_Information/default.aspx
Weather Averages
http://www.weatherreports.com/97701/averages.html
From CNN Best Places 2006
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bplive/2006/snapshots/PL4105800.html
LA GRANDE
==========
"Nestled at the feet of the Blue Mountains on the edge of the fertile
Grande Ronde Valley, La Grande is a pretty town with lots to offer
travelers. With a population of just over 12,400, La Grande is the
largest city in Union County and is the county seat. The community is
friendly, casual, and has its own brand of sophistication, due in
large part to the presence of Eastern Oregon University. The
surrounding national forests, lakes, and rivers provide some of the
best biking, hiking, skiing, fishing, snowmobiling, camping, and
sightseeing opportunities in the state."
http://www.visitlagrande.com/
About the community
http://www.el.com/to/lagrande/
http://www.citytowninfo.com/places/oregon/la-grande
http://www.ci.la-grande.or.us/cityorgchart.cfm
Crime (scroll down)
http://www.city-data.com/city/La-Grande-Oregon.html
********
WYOMING
********
SHERIDAN
=========
About
http://www.sheridanwyoming.org/index.php
Facts/Question (click to read them all)
http://www.sheridanwyoming.org/info/faq-faq.php
2000 Population: City of Sheridan, 15,804; County of Sheridan, 26,560.
1998 Ethnic Distribution of Sheridan County: White (non-Hispanic)
96.5%; White (Hispanic) 1.7%; American Indian 0.4%; African American
0.8%; Asian 0.4%; Hispanic (any race) 1.8%
Sheridan is the "warm spot" of Wyoming
Annual Average Temperature: 44.7 degrees F.
Monthly Average Temperature:
January - 20.8 degrees F.
July - 69.9 degrees F.
Annual Average Rainfall: 14.48 inches
Annual Average Snowfall: 74.3 Inches
Average Growing Season: 119 Days
Housing/Mortgage Statistics
http://www.nextag.com/home-mortgage/2/WY/Sheridan.html
*********
COLORADO
*********
LOVELAND
=========
Loveland is just outside the #1-ranked city of Fort Collins. It is a
bit slower and less-populated but close enough to Fort Collins to
enjoy all the amenities.
"Loveland, Colorado offers an appealing lifestyle from enjoying the
great outdoors at our parks and lakes to taking in the culture of the
arts. As the "Gateway to the Rockies," Loveland is nestled in a valley
at the mouth of the beautiful Big Thompson Canyon. Rocky Mountain
National Park and Trail Ridge Road are just a short drive away.
Highway 34, the main east/west thoroughfare through the city, becomes
Trail Ridge Road just 30 miles west of town. Trail Ridge Road is the
highest paved through road in the United States at above 12,000 feet
elevation at its highest point. For the outdoor enthusiasts, Loveland
boasts of 27 public parks, three public golf courses (including the
championship Marianna Butte), 14 miles of trails for hiking and
biking. Loveland is at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, which
provide ample opportunity for hiking, fishing, & horseback riding. The
many rivers and lakes in the area offer a variety of water sports such
as boating, water skiing, rafting and kayaking.
http://www.loveland.org/community/quality_of_life.shtml
More about Loveland:
http://www.loveland.org/community/
Demographics
http://www.loveland.org/community/demographics.shtml
SALIDA
=======
"In 2004, Outside Magazine named the "sweetly unpretentious town of
Salida" as one of the 20 "Dream Towns + Adventure Hideouts (& Sweet
Land Deals)." Located in the Upper Arkansas River Valley, Salida is
below the Continental Divide in the Banana Belt creating ideal
conditions for year-round outdoor recreation. Boasting 15 Peaks over
14,000 feet in elevation, Salida is known for its hiking, whitewater
rafting, mountain biking, skiing, hot springs, fly fishing and much,
much more!"
http://www.salidachamber.org/
Community Profile
http://www.salidachamber.org/profile.html
Population
http://www.salidachamber.org/profile/population.html
In depth profile, including real estate, health, schools
http://www.fourteenernet.com/salida/docs/community.pdf
Crime data (scroll down)
http://www.city-data.com/city/Salida-Colorado.html
LONGMONT
========
"Longmont, Colorado, located within Boulder County, is a city with 22
square miles, over 300 days of sunshine, and a spectacular view of the
Rocky Mountains. Longmont sits at an elevation of 4,979 feet above sea
level. With over 1500 acres of parks and open space, Longmont is
perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Longmont is also home to several
high-tech companies and a vibrant restaurant scene. It is conveniently
located 37 miles from Denver, 16 miles from Boulder, and 30 miles from
the scenic Trail Ridge Road. For in-depth information, including
quality of life statistics and employment and income data, see the
Longmont Community Profile."
http://www.ci.longmont.co.us/about/index.htm
About
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bplive/2006/snapshots/PL0845970.html
*********
ARIZONA
*********
PRESCOTT
=========
"Located in the mountains of north central Arizona the City borders
the Prescott National Forest to the south and west. Prescott and the
nearby towns of Chino Valley and Prescott Valley form what is known
locally as the Tri-City area. Dubbed "Everybody?s Hometown," Prescott
is home to the downtown Courthouse Plaza, famous Whiskey Row, World's
Oldest Rodeo, Prescott Fine Arts Association, Sharlot Hall Museum,
Phippen Art Museum, Folk Arts Fair, Frontier Days, and Territorial
Days. It has been officially designated as "Arizona?s Christmas City"
by the State of Arizona
http://www.cityofprescott.net/visitors/
Prescott, Arizona is a beautiful and historic town of about 30,000
people. It is located in the high country approximately 100 miles
northwest of Phoenix. The Prescott area is famous for its breathtaking
forests and its close proximity to well known tourist attractions such
as the Prescott National Forest, and the Grand Canyon.
http://www.relo-usa.com/Arizona/Prescott/index.htm
Prescott elevation is 5,347 feet above sea level.
Prescott per capita income is $20,643 (1998).
The Prescott median home price is $160,650.
http://www.usacitiesonline.com/azcountyprescott.htm#climate
"The climate for Prescott is mild. Summer temperatures are rarely over
85 with winter temps averaging about 50. The humidity is only about
45% all year. Some snow does fall, but usually melts rapidly.
Prescott average annual rainfall is 19 inches per year
Prescott average annual snowfall is 21 inches per year.
The average low temperature is 36.9 degrees F.
The average high temperature is 69.6 degrees F
http://www.usacitiesonline.com/azcountyprescott.htm#climate
Education
http://www.prescott.k12.az.us/
*****
UTAH
*****
Utah is a beautiful state with incredible weather in the higher
elevations, especially. Unfortunately, the predominant LDS religion
can be oppressive in some areas, especially if you are seeking
diversity.
If you want to consider Utah, I suggest looking at a small town like Heber.
Heber
======
"Heber Valley is located in Wasatch County, between the Wasatch and
Uinta Mountains. It's backcountry wilderness location makes it an
ideal destination year round. Once known primarily as a dairy and
mining community, the Heber Valley atmosphere is rural. Nevertheless,
it offers easy access to the urban cultural centers of Utah. Heber is
found only 20 miles south of Park City, or 50 miles southeast of Salt
Lake City."
http://www.hebervalleycc.org/
http://homes.point2.com/Neighborhood/US/Utah/Wasatch-County/Heber-City-Demographics.aspx
http://www.city-data.com/city/Heber-Utah.html
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
***********************
Have you tried "Find Your Spot?" I have! It's fun!
http://www.findyourspot.com/
The following lists might help you narrow down some other areas of the
country that interest you.
CNN's Best Small Towns - 2006 is a good resource. Of course, most of
these towns lie in very humid, or very hot areas. It doesn't hurt to
take a look, though.
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bplive/2006/
Boomtowns '06: Hottest Small Cities
http://www.inc.com/magazine/20060501/boomtowns-small.html
"Small towns become more appealing - ACBJ study finds best small towns
across the country." American City Business Journals - June 27, 2005
by G. Scott Thomas
http://www.bizjournals.com/edit_special/18.html
Cities ranked - "Least Humid to Most humid." - (this might give you
some idea of the areas of the country to consider)
http://www.weathertoday.net/weatherfacts/average_humidity_asc.php
For more rankings, see
http://www.weathertoday.net/weatherfacts.htm
"Murder Rate in 2004." (see rankings)
http://www.statestats.com/met04r.pdf
==
I hope my suggestions help you locate some areas of the country that
might provide a new home for you and your family.
Have fun searching!
Sincerely,
umiat |
