**The Best Thing About Columbus?** The Ohio State University 

We put the Buckeyes as the #1 thing about Columbus not because the school itself is the thing, but rather what a massive, influential school like Ohio State brings to a city. It directly and indirectly makes Columbus younger, more tech-centric, more LGBT friendly, more culturally diverse, and more economically sound for jobs, real estate, and gives the population more overall confidence than other Ohio or other midwestern cities (apologies to Ann Arbor). 

**The Worst Thing About Columbus?** It’s Flat

Now this point might seem to go without saying if you’re thinking about moving here from another Midwestern city. However, if you’re thinking about Columbus from a coast or mountain state and are going to hold Columbus to a higher standard you are going to be disappointed with the topography. Some grow to love the plains of the midwest in the same way the desert has appeal but we’re just giving you the heads up. 

**How You Living?** Surrounded By Brick

Columbus has so many beautiful historic neighborhoods(they call them districts) that are dominated by sturdy brick homes, brick apartment buildings, brick rowhouses and renovated brick buildings that house much of the commercial district businesses. The Short North is a great example of all this; with lots of art galleries, boutique retail, bars, coffee spots and plenty of walkable housing (all made of brick). Whether you’re a young single looking for a social neighborhood or a family looking for bigger homes and some land you’ll find it here (and much of it will be brick). 


**Why You Should Move Here Now?** It’s A Pearl

Nearly everything you could want from your precious bigger city is available in Columbus: arts, sports, nightlife, diverse population, diverse economy and the rest but without much of the hassles of a high cost of living, or insane traffic, or the rest. You get all of the bigger city experiences without many of the downsides. If you’re looking for a better place to bail to and think the midwest could work Columbus is hard to beat. If you’re truly unsure about the Midwest (or at least Ohio) then remember that tagline they never adopted: Columbus: We Are So Not Ohio. 


Columbus

We Are So Not Ohio

**The Good, the Bad and the Ugly**

Cleveland has The Eastside and The Westside and the twain really don’t meet. These are clusters of many suburbs that are too many to name. The actual city of Cleveland is geographically tight and the ‘inner-ring’ suburbs are popular with people looking for a bustling, urban lifestyle and left-leaning politics. The Westside features Lakewood (lake shoreline, high LGBTQ quotient, solid public transportation and tons of millenials.) Ohio City (young professionals, juice bars and yoga) and Tremaine. The Eastside features Cleveland Heights, Coventry, University Circle and Shaker Heights all of which are pretty good for families. Downtown underwent a major revitalization many years ago and living downtown became a thing that was possible. A warehouse district called The Flats was massively developed (now East Bank Flats and West Bank Flats) with world class entertainment and sports the requisite loft-style, genuine artist- in-residence spaces and luxury apartments (Goldcoast) all of which house the professionals, the painters and the partiers. Oh and there’s professional sports like crazy. 

The Cleveland metro area is extremely diverse (though segregated -- The Westside is very white and can, in certain places, be downright racist.) Little Italy is the real deal, a system of metro parks called The Emerald Necklace is cool but The Lake Effect is not just a fancy term -- lots o’ snow.

**The Best Thing About Cleveland?**

An urban lifestyle is available well below the cost of other cities. Millennials have breathed new life into Cleveland and it shows. The ‘inner-ring’ of suburbs is pretty handy.

**The Worst Thing About Cleveland?** 

The weather really blows. Winters are grey and long and when the grey weather sets in, those notoriously friendly people lose their otherwise friendly demeanor. 

**How You Living?** 

A smorgasbord of options. Old houses, new luxury apartments, ranch houses, lofts. There are so many different living situations and types of communities. If you choose carefully, you could have the best of all worlds. 

**Why You Should Move Here Now?** 

They really want you to. Cleveland is still in a years-long effort to reinvent itself and it has attracted lots of advanced jobs in BioTech, IT and advanced manufacturing that pay well while the cost of living and home prices are a bargain. 


Cleveland

The Cleve

**The Best Thing About Toledo?**  A strong commitment to the arts

Toledo has a thriving arts scene in all media, but has a special emphasis on both commercial and artistic glass. Its Museum of Art includes a world-renowned Glass Pavilion and major glass manufacturers employ many of the city’s populace.

**The Worst Thing About Toledo?**  Crime

Toledo is considered one of the more dangerous cities in the country. But as with most cities a lot of that depends on where you live. In general, it has the kinds of ups and downs that any city its size would have but it’s something to be aware of when considering Toledo. 

**How You Living?**  It’s a mixed bag

Despite the crime, Toledo is a decent place to live. In addition to the arts, it has most of the amenities of a large city, anchored by an extended Metropark system, which provides great access to spaces within and outside the city. It’s a mid-sized city that’s still fairly affordable, and it’s located smack dab in the middle of the United States, offering easy access to other cities small and large. 

**Why You Should Move Here Now?**  Affordable and central

Toledo is affordable, and like a lot of midwestern cities is experiencing a renaissance of work-from-homers looking for a pleasant, family-friendly, cheaper option. Like any city its size, there’s plenty to do and lots for families to enjoy. Finally, if you have midwestern sensibilities about what is close, then you'll find the drives to Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, Louisville or Pittsburgh easy for a weekend trip. 


Toledo

Glass City

**The Best Thing About Cincinnati?** Easy to get a job

Cincinnati is a mid sized city with the amenities of a big one, without being crowded. There are a lot of Fortune 500 companies with plenty of high-paying jobs along with a low cost of living. Those companies attract people of all ages, and at all wages. 

**The Worst Thing About Cincinnati?** Hard to get around

Cincinnatians bemoan the lack of a central subway system and a poor transit system overall. Car ownership is a given, but parking is also hard. And despite the lack of crowds, traffic can get snarled and cumbersome. While you get the amenities of a bigger city it is missing the public transport of one. 

**How You Living?** Like a city mouse

Cincinnati has a lot of diversity in its neighborhoods. If you’re looking for fancy check out Hyde Park. Have a preference for a mix of beautiful housing and a great social scene? Head to the Clifton Gaslight District. Prefer a downtown nightlife with loft living, and the downtown ballparks nearby? Then you should look at The Banks. Finally, if you’re looking for a cool neighborhood with beautiful historic Victorians check out Columbia-Tusculum. It’s known as the “San Francisco of Cincinnati”.  

**Why You Should Move Here Now?** Growth

Cincinnati is in acceleration mode. The population is growing, the job market is growing, the downtown social and cultural scene are growing. If there is a reason to move here it is centered around the incredible energy and enthusiasm for the city that comes with that growth. Come here because the people that live here love it. 


Cincinnati

A Square Deal

Akron

Rubber City

Dice is the leading career destination for tech experts at every stage of their careers. Our client, Strategic Systems Inc, is seeking the following. Apply via Dice today!
Job Title: Software Engineer II (1288)
Number of Openings: 1
Start Date: 3/31/25
Duration: Contract 12/31/25
Work Location : Onsite - 5001 Kingsley Drive, Cincinnati Ohio 45227
Candidate Requirements
<ul><li>Top 3-5 Must-Have Skills:</li>
<li>Angular</li>
<li>TypeScript</li>
<li>Java</li>
<li>Kotlin</li>
<li>RDBMS</li>
</ul>Job Description
Full lifecycle application development
<ul><li>Designing, coding and debugging applications in various software languages.</li>
<li>Software analysis, code analysis, requirements analysis, software review, identification of code metrics, system risk analysis, software reliability analysis</li>
<li>Object-oriented Design and Analysis (OOA and OOD)</li>
<li>Software modeling and simulation</li>
<li>Front end graphical user interface design</li>
<li>Software testing and quality assurance</li>
<li>Performance tuning, improvement, balancing, usability, automation.</li>
<li>Support, maintain and document software functionality</li>
<li>Integrate software with existing systems</li>
<li>Evaluate and identify new technologies for implementation</li>
<li>Maintain standards compliance</li>
<li>Implement localization or globalization of software</li>
<li>Undergraduate degree in computer engineering, computer science, information technology or a related discipline</li></ul>

Application Software Engineer II in Cincinnati Ohio 45227

With a legacy that spans over 150 years, Bon Secours is a network that is dedicated to providing excellent care through exceptional people. At every level, everyone on our teams have embraced the call to provide compassionate care. Here, you can work with others who share common values, and use your skills to help extend care to all of our communities.
About Us
As a faith-based and patient-focused organization, Bon Secours exists to enhance the health and well-being of all people in mind, body and spirit through exceptional patient care. Success in this goal requires a culture of compassion, collaboration, excellence and respect. Bon Secours seeks people that are committed to our values of compassion, human dignity, integrity, service and stewardship to create an environment where associates want to work and help communities thrive.
Registered Nurse - RN - Physician Office - St Francis Med Center - Midlothian, VA
With a legacy that spans over 150 years, Bon Secours is a network that is dedicated to providing excellent care through exceptional people. At every level, everyone on our teams have embraced the call to provide compassionate care. Here, you can work with others who share common values, and use your skills to help extend care to all of our communities.
Primary Function/General Purpose of Position
Serve as RN Research (Exempt)Clinical Research Nurse Coordinator for Bon Secours Liver Institute of Richmond with occasional support during emergencies (if needed) of the Liver Institute of Hampton Roads research site.
<h3>Essential Job Functions:</h3>
Epic
<ul><li>Enroll patients in research studies, associating visits/ appointments/ admissions with research studies (utilizing both reporting workbench report and within the patient chart), and reviewing charges via the Research Billing Report to determine which are billed to Insurance and which are billed to the research study.</li>
</ul><h3>Project Management:</h3>
<ul><li>Review site feasibility surveys and assist with budget preparations for new research.</li>
<li>Organize and monitor clinical research observational and data collection studies.</li>
<li>Serve as Liaison between the Cancer Institute, hospital departments, and sponsoring agencies for multiple clinical trials. Serve as liaison with partner institutions for multi-center (national and international) clinical trials.</li>
<li>Work with other Bon Secours health system departments participating in clinical research to ensure adherence to study regulations and adequate patient care.</li>
<li>Set up and maintain process/procedures for ordering tests for patients enrolled in clinical trials (special billing mechanisms, etc.)</li>
<li>Coordinate/plan patient recruitment, prepare inclusion/exclusion criteria checklist, prepare list of allowed and disallowed medications, and flow sheets (if needed). Set up source document utilizing electronic Case Report Forms (eCRFs), protocol, schedule of visits and tests, and other materials to ensure proper recording of data.</li>
<li>Routinely interact with physicians, coordinators, clinical trials sponsors, and other individuals / organizations participating in clinical trials regarding patient care and related issues</li>
<li>Complete CRFs and other documents at the time data is collected or immediately after the data becomes available. Obtain physician investigator’s signature on CRF’s, test results, and other documents as required and maintain copy per sponsor requirements after sponsor has reviewed and taken original. Retain completed CRFs and regulatory documents for as long as required by sponsor.</li>
<li>Review adverse events and other data with Physician Investigator and ensure that information regarding adverse events is noted in documentation as required. Report serious adverse events to the Sponsor and IRB within the required time frame. Ensure all records related to adverse events are maintained on file. If the sponsor is paying for costs outside the scope of the original budget for a serious adverse event which required hospitalization or additional testing, work with Practice Manager to ensure all charges related to the SAE are billed to the sponsor.</li>
<li>Participate in pre-site-qualification meetings, site selection meetings, interim monitoring visits, audits, investigator meetings, and complete all training required for each clinical trial.</li>
</ul>Human Subjects Research/IRB/Regulatory Administration:
<ul><li>Complete paperwork and submit initial protocols and consents to IRB for review (ie protocol, investigator’s brochure, FDA1572 or investigator’s agreement, consent form, current CVs, advertising (if any), and IRB forms.</li>
<li>Handle IRB submissions related to clinical research, work with Physician and Practice manager and Bon Secours health system administration for contract review. Supervise work of Clinical Research Assistant(s) and other clinical coordinators.</li>
<li>When IRB approval is received, receive and maintain CRF books from sponsor, to be maintained by clinical research nurse.</li>
<li>Maintain regulatory binders with all required documents.</li>
<li>Complete paperwork for proper processing of charges, reviewing coding, and approving bills to ensure the correct grant is charged for care of patients enrolled in clinical trials.</li>
<li>Complete required human subjects research training and keep certification on file.</li>
</ul><h3>Patient Recruitment/Enrollment:</h3>
<ul><li>Assist PI and Sub-Investigator(s) in identifying patients for possible eligibility for treatment protocols.</li>
<li>Schedule appointments and evaluate patients for eligibility to participate in various programs to treat cancer.</li>
<li>Review medical records pertaining to these patients and present to the attending physician group for review.</li>
<li>Review consent form with patients, including explaining how charges will be handled (ie, what tests are covered by study, which are standard of care and will be billed to insurance), and answers any questions. Obtain patient’s signature on consent form.</li>
<li>Obtain required medical information from patients, advise patients of visits, assign numbers to the patients as required by protocol, and ensure that all study-related documentation, forms, CRF’s, are complete before patient leaves the office.</li>
</ul>Investigational Product (IP)
<ul><li>Work closely with pharmacy on dispensation of investigational product, including having access to pharmacy system for each clinical trial.</li>
</ul>Direct Patient Care
<ul><li>Educate patients concerning natural history of cancer and its complications. Educate patients concerning the side effects of specific medications and other treatment of cancer.</li>
<li>Complete study collection forms necessary to evaluate effects of treatment on cancer.</li>
<li>Answer phone questions for patients concerning possible side effects of the treatments they are receiving as well as complications associated with cancer or any other acute illness. Assess this information and present to attending physicians within the Cancer Institute as appropriate.</li>
<li>Triage patient calls, arrange for appropriate care.</li>
<li>Arrange for special procedures for patients enrolled in clinical trials, including biopsies, ultrasounds, endoscopies, etc.</li>
</ul>Completion/Close-out of Clinical Trials:
<h3>As each study closes:</h3>
<ul><li>Collect medications from patients, inventory study drugs, return to sponsor.</li>
<li>Explain to patient how to follow-up for their care when study is completed.</li>
<li>If patient terminates study early -note the reason for file.</li>
<li>Complete all CRFs.</li>
<li>Complete all requests for corrections and return them to Sponsor.</li>
<li>Complete reports required by Sponsor and send final report to IRB.</li>
<li>Review regulatory binder, make sure all documents are present.</li>
<li>Store documents and inform Sponsor of storage location</li>
</ul>This document is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as required by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.
Licensing/Certification
List the name of AND the accrediting/licensing body for both required AND preferred registrations/certifications/licensures. Fully write out any acronyms. For each listing, please denote if required or preferred, considering a candidate at time of hire.
<ul><li>BLS Basic Life Support – American Heart Association (required)</li>
<li>RN license current in Commonwealth of Virginia (required)</li>
</ul>Education
<ul><li>Bachelor of Science Nursing preferred); RN required</li>
</ul>Work Experience
<ul><li>5 years of nursing experience as an RN (required).</li>
<li>2 years of recent (within the last 3 years) research experience in a clinical setting (required).</li>
</ul>Many of our opportunities reward* your hard work with:
Comprehensive, affordable medical, dental and vision plans
Prescription drug coverage
Flexible spending accounts
Life insurance w/AD&D
Employer contributions to retirement savings plan when eligible
Paid time off
Educational Assistance
And much more
<ul><li>Benefits offerings vary according to employment status</li>
</ul>All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health – Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours – Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employers, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com
Many of our opportunities reward* your hard work with:
Comprehensive, affordable medical, dental and vision plans
Prescription drug coverage
Flexible spending accounts
Life insurance w/AD&D
Employer contributions to retirement savings plan when eligible
Paid time off
Educational Assistance
And much more
<ul><li>Benefits offerings vary according to employment status</li>
</ul>All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health – Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours – Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employers, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com

Clinical Research Nurse (CRN) - Physician Office - St. Francis Medical Center

A client of Insight Global in the Grand Rapids, MI area is looking for a Software Engineer to join their team.This individual will be responsible for working with other developers to design, develop, modify, and write code that meets requirements for various applications. They will participate in test review and analysis and be required to come up with unique approaches to different issues that may arise.This is a remote position, candidates are preferred to be located in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin, or Kentucky.
<h3>Compensation:</h3>
$60/hr to $66/hr
Exact compensation may vary based on several factors, including skills, experience, and education.
Benefit packages for this role will start on the 31st day of employment and include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as HSA, FSA, and DCFSA account options, and 401k retirement account access with employer matching. Employees in this role are also entitled to paid sick leave and/or other paid time off as provided by applicable law.
We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day. We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to HR@insightglobal.com.
To learn more about how we collect, keep, and process your private information, please review Insight Global's Workforce Privacy Policy: https://insightglobal.com/workforce-privacy-policy/ .

Insight Global

Software Engineer III

Ohio

California

Michigan

Minnesota

New Jersey

New York

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

Colorado’s appeal is multilayered. Of course, there are the Rockies—snow-capped peaks, ski resorts, and Instagrammable vistas—but beyond the obvious, the state reveals itself in its micro-regions and quirks.

Denver has grown into a full-fledged metro, attracting industries from aerospace to fintech. Neighborhoods like RiNo and Cap Hill pulse with murals, independent bookstores, and some of the best third-wave coffee west of the Mississippi. Yet, 20 minutes outside the city, you’ll find Golden, a once-sleepy brewery town now thriving with young families, hikers, and mountain bikers—all while still housing Coors’ giant facility.

Boulder, perched between rugged wilderness and intellectual ambition, is equal parts Patagonia fleece and startup pitch decks. It’s home to Naropa University (the country’s only accredited Buddhist-inspired school) and the National Center for Atmospheric Research, reflecting the state’s unique mix of spiritual curiosity and scientific rigor.

To the north, Fort Collins flies a little under the radar but boasts Colorado State University, a jumping historic downtown, and enough breweries to rival cities twice its size. Meanwhile, Colorado Springs feels like a different state altogether—home to multiple military installations, it leans more conservative but surprises visitors with epic natural landmarks like Garden of the Gods and the quirky artist enclave Manitou Springs, where mineral springs bubble out of old-timey fountains.

Then there are the mountain towns that get less attention than Aspen or Vail:

- Salida: An artsy river town known for whitewater festivals and a historic downtown dotted with galleries.
- Paonia: Tucked on the Western Slope, it’s where organic farmers, artists, and winemakers coexist—a quieter, greener slice of Colorado.
- Crested Butte: A former mining town turned "wildflower capital of Colorado," still fiercely local despite its world-class skiing.
- Leadville: The highest-elevation incorporated city in the U.S., with Wild West vibes, antique shops, and a reputation for producing ultra-endurance athletes.

- Even Pueblo, long dismissed as a steel town, is experiencing a mini-renaissance—check out its green chile scene, which locals claim beats New Mexico’s any day.


**Lifestyle**

Colorado is all about the blend: high-intensity outdoor pursuits and laid-back social life. People measure days by powder totals or trail mileage, but they’re equally serious about craft beer, local music, and farm-to-table brunch.

There’s a statewide obsession with gear—ski racks are practically standard issue—and the unspoken dress code skews toward Patagonia puffer jackets, trail runners, and trucker hats. Even at upscale restaurants, you’ll find Gore-Tex mingling with linen.
Summer weekends revolve around farmers' markets, mountain festivals (like Telluride Bluegrass), and patio culture, where people sip IPAs while their dogs lounge nearby. Yes, 
Colorado is one of the most dog-friendly states in the country—don’t be surprised to see pups on brewery patios, hiking trails, and even paddleboards.

The weed industry is fully mainstream here—legal since 2012, dispensaries now sit next to yoga studios, and CBD drinks are common on menus. Despite the outdoor glamour, winters can drag, especially along the Front Range, where weeks of “brown season” (dry, gray winter days) test your patience if you’re not skiing every weekend.


**Who’s Moving to Colorado?**

- Outdoor Diehards: Skiers, mountain bikers, climbers, and trail runners all build their lives around nature’s calendar.

- Remote Workers: Many are now settling in places like Buena Vista, Pagosa Springs, or Ouray for mountain views and coworking spaces that offer reliable fiber internet.

- Young Professionals: Cities like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins attract college graduates seeking startup jobs in tech and a social scene that is outdoorsy and active.

- Families: Suburban areas such as Louisville, Superior, and Castle Rock provide excellent schools, greenbelts, and proximity to both the city and the mountains.

- Military & Veterans: Particularly in Colorado Springs, where military bases and VA services have a significant presence.

- Artists, Creatives, and Off-Gridders: These individuals are moving to smaller towns like Paonia, Crestone (known for its spiritual retreats), and Trinidad, where former mining towns are being transformed into vibrant art communities.

**Worklife** 

**Major Industries:**

- Aerospace & Defense: Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and dozens of military installations fuel this sector.

- Tech & Startups: Boulder leads, but Denver is fast catching up with expansions from Google, Amazon, and a strong venture capital scene.

- Healthcare & Life Sciences: Anchored by the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora and countless health-tech startups.

- Outdoor Rec & Tourism: A massive industry—from ski resorts to bike gear startups like Yeti Cycles.

- Renewable Energy & Green Tech: Solar farms, wind energy, and electric vehicle infrastructure are booming, especially east of Denver.

- Craft Beer & Cannabis: Both industries are major employers and cultural forces. Denver’s Great American Beer Festival draws thousands annually.

The work culture here is serious about productivity but just as serious about play. Flex hours are common—so is the “Friday early out” to chase powder or head to the hills. People here don’t brag about work hours—they brag about the number of 14ers climbed.

**Why Move Here Now?**

Colorado’s mix of economic opportunity and lifestyle remains hard to beat, but the secret’s long been out. Housing costs—especially in Denver, Boulder, and mountain towns—are steep. Still, the “live where you vacation” dream is possible, especially if you’re strategic about location.

Remote work has made previously overlooked places—think Montrose, Rifle, or Florence—more appealing. These towns offer affordability, mountain access, and emerging arts scenes without the crowds or costs of Summit County.
Meanwhile, climate-conscious infrastructure investments and Colorado’s renewable energy push are attracting a new wave of green tech talent. If you’re looking for a place where your weekends feel like a vacation, your weekdays pay the bills, and your backyard is the view—Colorado still delivers.

Just be ready for the quirks: expect your weather app to lie, brace for spring hailstorms, and know that people here take their green chile—and their Broncos—very seriously.

Colorado

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Virginia offers a little bit of everything—beaches, busy cities, historic towns, mountain views, and adventures for the outdoorsy types.  Families can find charming colonial neighborhoods to settle in or a tech-driven suburb, and young professionals (or families) will find cities known for culture and lifestyle (tons of breweries) —and none of it feels out of place.

Northern Virginia cities like Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax get a lot of attention for their young professional scene, government jobs (shaky right now but still), and shiny high-rises. But head west, and things shift—Charlottesville, Richmond, and Roanoke are growing fast, thanks to lower housing costs, beautiful scenery, and thriving food and arts communities.
And yes, Virginia’s got beaches. Virginia Beach and Norfolk offer a relaxed coastal lifestyle while still keeping you within driving distance of larger cities.
Lifestyle 

Virginia balances history and modern life better than most. There are amazing historic landmarks and battlefield tours, but it’s also a growing tech hub, home to a solid craft beer scene, and packed with outdoor activities—from hiking in the Shenandoah Mountains to kayaking in the Chesapeake Bay.

Public schools, especially in Northern Virginia, are notably strong, with Thomas Jefferson High School (TJ)  in Alexandria frequently rated the #1 public high school in the country. You get four distinct seasons, plenty of small-town festivals, and easy access to both mountains and beaches. Outdoor lovers will feel right at home.


**Who’s Moving to Virginia?**

- Families: Especially to Northern Virginia and Richmond suburbs for the schools, safety, and space.

- Young professionals: Drawn to government (prepare for this to change), tech, and consulting jobs in DC-adjacent areas like Arlington and Alexandria.

- Retirees and second-home buyers: Looking for less expensive mountain views or coastal living.

- Military families: With large bases in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Quantico.


**Worklife**

Virginia has a strong job market with several major industries driving growth:

- Government and defense: Big in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads although federal jobs are disappearing. 

- Tech and data centers: Amazon HQ2 in Arlington and Loudoun County’s “Data Center Alley”

- Healthcare and education: UVA, VCU, and major hospital networks

- Tourism, shipping, and military: Especially along the coast

The state consistently ranks as one of the best for business. Salaries are strong, especially near DC, though the cost of living is higher there too. Farther south or west, your money goes a lot further.


**Why Move Here Now?**

Virginia is hitting a good stride—a strong economy, a cultural boost in mid-sized cities, and more opportunities popping up beyond the DC suburbs. If you want East Coast energy without New York or Boston prices, Virginia’s a great option.
There’s a lot to like: solid job prospects, a wide range of places to live, and easy access to nature. Remote workers are starting to notice cities like Charlottesville and Richmond for their charm and affordability. And if you’re in tech, Amazon’s expansion means even more jobs on the horizon.

Bottom Line: Move for the jobs, stay for the mountain views, farmers markets, and the fact that you can hike on Saturday and hit the beach on Sunday. Virginia’s got space for you


Virginia

Massachusetts

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Nevada

New Mexico

North Carolina is one of the fastest-growing states in the country, driven by a combination of economic opportunity, natural beauty, and a more reasonable cost of living than many large metro areas on the East Coast. For people looking to bail on expensive cities like New York, Boston, or D.C., North Carolina’s growing mid-sized cities hit a sweet spot—offering urban energy without the overwhelming cost or scale.

Charlotte and Raleigh remain the fastest-growing hubs, but what’s fueling the state’s appeal are cities like Durham, Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Asheville. These places have seen significant investment in arts, culture, and local businesses, creating vibrant downtowns and neighborhoods while maintaining accessibility and affordability. Wilmington, with its historic riverfront and proximity to beaches, adds a coastal option with similar momentum.

North Carolina offers a blend of lifestyles—from dense city cores to suburban communities and small mountain or coastal towns—all within a state that delivers four distinct seasons and easy access to both the Atlantic and the Appalachians.

**Lifestyle** 

Living in North Carolina means having access to almost every kind of landscape and lifestyle you can imagine. The mountains of western North Carolina, including the Blue Ridge and Smokies, draw hikers, climbers, and people looking for small-town life with incredible scenery. Asheville anchors the region with a nationally recognized food scene, music venues, craft breweries, and a progressive arts community—all surrounded by nature.
Along the coast, places like Wilmington, New Bern, and the Outer Banks offer a completely different pace of life—historic charm, beach towns, and maritime culture.

In between, North Carolina’s mid-sized cities have grown into dynamic cultural hubs. Durham, once defined by tobacco warehouses, is now a food, music, and startup center, balancing grit and growth. Greensboro and Winston-Salem have embraced their history while building arts districts, indie music venues, and foodie scenes that attract newcomers looking for quality of life without the price tag of bigger cities.
Outdoor recreation is baked into the lifestyle—weekends are often spent hiking, kayaking, hitting the coast, or exploring dozens of state parks. Meanwhile, urban centers keep adding restaurants, music festivals, museums, and farmers markets that make daily life feel rich and varied.

Housing costs have risen, particularly in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville, but remain notably more reasonable compared to cities like D.C., New York, or Boston. Mid-sized cities and suburbs still offer affordable homeownership options, which continues to draw families, young professionals, and retirees.


**Who’s Moving to North Carolina?**

Young professionals and remote workers: The combination of job opportunities and lifestyle has put places like Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte on the map. Increasingly, mid-sized cities like Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Asheville are drawing remote workers who want cultural amenities without the high price tag.

- Families: Good schools, growing suburbs, and attainable home prices make North Carolina a top choice for families leaving higher-cost states. Suburban areas around Raleigh and Charlotte, like Cary or Huntersville, are growing fast.

- Retirees: North Carolina is a retirement destination—particularly western towns like Asheville, Hendersonville, and Boone, or coastal towns like New Bern and Southport, where people are drawn to the mild climate and slower pace of life.

- Tech, biotech, and finance workers: Raleigh-Durham’s Research Triangle remains a major driver of growth, along with Charlotte’s powerhouse banking sector. Mid-sized cities are seeing a ripple effect as people seek affordability near these job centers.


**Worklife** 

North Carolina’s economy is diverse, which has helped it stay resilient and attractive to new residents:

- Tech, biotech, and healthcare: The Research Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) is home to major universities, research parks, and a growing number of startups and tech companies. This area competes nationally for talent.

- Finance and banking: Charlotte is the second-largest banking center in the U.S., home to Bank of America and major offices for Wells Fargo, Truist, and others.

- Education: With strong public universities and private colleges, education remains a huge employer, feeding into the region’s research and innovation economy.

- Tourism, arts, and service industries: The mountains and coast pull in millions of visitors each year, supporting a growing tourism economy that fuels restaurants, shops, and creative industries in cities and small towns alike.

- Remote work is also changing the landscape, as people relocate from expensive markets to cities like Asheville or Wilmington, seeking a better work-life balance without sacrificing culture or community.


**Why Move Here Now?**

North Carolina is in that rare window of growth where the state feels exciting but still livable. While housing costs are rising, they remain manageable compared to the Northeast or West Coast. Newcomers are often surprised at how much house—or quality of life—they can afford here.

The job market is strong, especially in tech, biotech, finance, and education, and there’s momentum in the arts, food, and cultural scenes, particularly in mid-sized cities that still feel accessible.

If you’re looking for a place that offers career opportunities, space to explore, and a more affordable cost of living—all without sacrificing culture—North Carolina’s cities, especially its rising mid-sized ones, are worth a serious look.


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Maryland might be one of the smallest states by land area, but it feels expansive in the variety of places, landscapes, and cultures you’ll find here. Locals sometimes call it “America in Miniature”—and it fits. Within a few hours, you can go from the crab houses and maritime history of the Eastern Shore to the rolling farmland and horse country of Howard and Carroll counties, then up into the Appalachian foothills in Western Maryland.

Baltimore—gritty, beautiful, and still deeply local—anchors the state with its historic brick row houses, growing arts scene, and a complicated but evolving identity. It’s a city of neighborhoods, from the cobblestone streets of Fells Point to the indie shops and music venues in Hampden. Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland draw researchers, students, and healthcare workers, while the Port of Baltimore keeps the city tied to global trade.

The DC suburbs—places like Bethesda, Silver Spring, Rockville, and College Park—are among the most diverse in the country. They’re fast-paced, career-driven, and home to major employers in tech, healthcare, defense, and international policy. Montgomery County consistently ranks high for public school systems, while Prince George’s County—once overlooked—is booming with development and homeownership among Black professionals.

Then there’s the Chesapeake Bay—arguably Maryland’s emotional center. Fishing villages, waterfront towns, and a deep-rooted culture of crabbing and boating shape life here. In places like St. Michaels or Solomons, watermen traditions meet weekenders from DC.


**Lifestyle** 

Maryland is a state of contrasts:

- Outdoors: Summers bring locals out for blue crab feasts, sailing regattas, and Eastern Shore beaches like Ocean City or Assateague Island, where wild ponies roam. Hikers find solace in the Catoctin Mountains or the Maryland stretch of the Appalachian Trail. In the fall, leaf-peeping in western Maryland rivals New England.

- Suburban Professional: Many Marylanders are commuters, with highways like I-270 and the Capital Beltway packed every weekday. Work-life here often revolves around careers in government contracting, federal agencies, or research labs.

- Cultural: Baltimore punches above its weight in music, art, and food. It's home to quirky traditions like the annual HonFest, while the nearby suburbs offer concert venues, museums, and some of the country's best public libraries.

- Education-Focused: With several nationally ranked school districts, plus colleges like UMD College Park, Loyola, and St. John’s in Annapolis, education drives many families’ choices.

The cost of living is high in the DC metro area—Montgomery County and Howard County are expensive but offer great schools and amenities. Meanwhile, Baltimore City and parts of the Eastern Shore remain relatively affordable, though income disparities can be stark.


**Who’s Moving to Maryland?**

- Government and Defense Professionals: With NSA, NIH, and countless government contractors, Maryland is a hub for federal careers.

- Healthcare and Biotech Workers: The state’s economy is built around giants like Johns Hopkins, the University of Maryland Medical System, and a growing biotech corridor around Gaithersburg and Rockville.

- Families: Strong school systems, safe suburbs, and access to both urban and rural life make it a prime target for families.

- Nature and Water Lovers: The Bay, mountains, and access to the Atlantic draw people who don’t want to choose between city life and nature.


**Worklife**

Maryland boasts some of the highest median incomes in the country, but it comes with a cost. Key industries include:

- Government, Defense, and Cybersecurity (Fort Meade, NSA, countless Beltway contractors)

- Healthcare and Life Sciences (Johns Hopkins, NIH, biotech firms in the I-270 corridor)

- Port and Shipping (Baltimore’s port is one of the busiest on the East Coast)

- Education (Universities, research centers, and public school systems)

Maryland’s job market tends to be resilient especially near D.C.—especially in recession-proof industries like healthcare, science, and in prior administrations, federal government work. High wages can offset higher living costs, particularly in areas like Montgomery County.


**Why Move Here Now?**

Baltimore is changing -- neighborhood revitalization, a growing arts scene, and affordable historic homes make it a city to invest in. The DMV’s tech and biotech boom means Maryland’s share of the tech and life sciences boom is growing fast, especially in Montgomery County and the suburbs along I-270.

Waterfront and small-town charm aplenty, with coastal towns offering an escape that feels worlds away from DC but still within reach for weekends or remote work. Finally, access without total commitment: Maryland lets you plug into DC’s energy, Baltimore’s grit, or nature’s calm—all without fully committing to just one lifestyle.


Maryland

Washington is not what most people around the country think if their view is based solely on the Emerald City. You’ve got Seattle, yes — the tech hub with glassy towers, expensive lattes, and endless cranes reshaping the skyline. But Washington’s story is bigger and weirder than that.

Head east and you hit the Cascades, where towns like Leavenworth lean hard into their Bavarian cosplay — full-on Alpine architecture and Christmas markets, even in summer. Cross those mountains and the state turns dry, golden, and wide open — apple orchards, hops fields, and wine country roll through the Yakima Valley and Walla Walla. It’s a different state over there, one that cares more about rodeos and crop yields than whatever Seattle’s latest zoning fight is about.

There’s also the pocket-sized, artsy cities people don’t talk about enough — Bellingham, tucked up near the Canadian border with its crunchy, outdoorsy vibe and a local ski hill just 30 minutes up the road; Olympia, the capital, where the punk music scene still has a pulse and the farmers market is the real social center; and Port Townsend, a Victorian seaport town known for wooden boat festivals and a whole lot of ghost stories.

What keeps people here is the geography — Puget Sound, the Olympics, Mount Rainier looming massive. There’s a certain stubborn pride about how many people own a kayak and know how to dig their clams. You don’t have to go far to find someone who will try to convince you their corner of Washington is the best — whether that’s a foggy coastal town, a moss-draped mountain pass, or a sunny plateau east of the mountains. And honestly, they’re all kind of right.



**Lifestyle** 

Living here means you learn to live with the weather — or love it. Western Washington’s gray season lasts months, but the long, golden summer days make up for it. The east side flips the script — hot, dry summers and winters that mean snow.

People are big on the outdoors, but not in a performative way. It's less Instagram hiking and more “this is just what we do.” Mountain biking in the Cascades, skiing at Stevens Pass, trail running in the Issaquah Alps, or mushroom hunting when the rains come — the connection to nature runs deep.

Sustainability isn’t a buzzword here — it’s baked in. You’ll see people line up to return compost buckets at the farmers market or debate which salmon run needs protecting. There’s a hyper-local food scene, from oyster farms like Hama Hama to foraged nettles making their way into restaurant menus.

Housing is a mixed bag. Seattle and the Eastside (Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland) are expensive, with median home prices well above $900k. But smaller cities like Spokane or the Tri-Cities offer more space and sunshine without completely unplugging you from the economy.



**Who’s Moving to Colorado?**

- Tech folks chasing jobs at Amazon, Microsoft, and the sprawl of startups. The Eastside suburbs — Bellevue, Kirkland, Sammamish — are full of transplants figuring out the PNW way.

- Families looking for good schools, parks, and the rare suburban neighborhood where you can still walk to a coffee shop (Issaquah and North Bend, looking at you).

- Outdoor types — climbers, paddlers, skiers — folks who want a job and mountains in their backyard. Bellingham and Wenatchee both punch above their weight for this crowd.

- Healthcare and education workers — UW, WSU, major hospital systems, and growing biotech hubs keep the state anchored beyond tech.

- And increasingly, people just looking for a lifestyle shift — artists, remote workers, folks burned out on California or Texas sprawl — are finding their way here.



**Worklife**

The job market stays solid, especially if you’re in:

- Tech: Seattle’s core, Bellevue’s new skyscrapers, and a growing remote scene

- Aerospace: Boeing’s still big, even if quieter than it once was

- Healthcare: especially in Seattle and Spokane

- Agriculture: apples, cherries, hops, and wine rule Eastern Washington

- Shipping and trade: major ports in Seattle and Tacoma keep global goods moving

The interesting thing is how the economy balances — world-class tech and scrappy farming towns coexist, sometimes uneasily, but it works.



**Why Move Here Now?**

Washington’s still growing, but in ways that give you choices. Yes, Seattle’s pricey, but places like Spokane, Bellingham, and even Bremerton are growing fast without feeling like polished suburbs yet. The access to nature is unbeatable, but what might surprise people is how distinct each region feels.
You could live where you’re skiing before work, or where you’re sipping wine on your porch at sunset. You could be downtown for an Amazon meeting or out in the San Juans watching orcas. Washington has range — that’s the real sell.


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