Might move West.. Discuss please..

[greatbuffalo]

That would be a big decision, where to move too.

I really like the southern hills, Hill City and south. I'd even live in Hot Springs. Then those things that you need to make a living come into the picture, to screw it all up.

[Fletch]

given the choice (no concerns over jobs/etc.) I would prefer spearfish. it is a nice town, kept young feeling by the college kids, has everything you need and great access to all the fun the hills have to offer right out your back door.

[chris_king]

I moved here (Rapid) about a year ago.  Here's my list of lesson learned:
* My TV is used much much less than when I lived in other cities.
* People here are less friendly, more honest and people stop and chat a lot
* The restaurant selection is so so and the sushi around town is dubious at best
* I've found that I'm suddenly interested in Skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, scuba diving, fly fishing, camping and rock hounding - never gave a crap about any of those before
* It's hard to find a decent housing rental, and when you do they get snatched up asap.
* Job market pays less but If you can make a living here, do it. 

I love it here but have the same complaint as most, its just hard to earn money.

[Hank]

Chris, where did you move from?

You say people are less friendly, but stop and chat a lot.   That statement makes me curious.    Less friendly than what?

[chris_king]

Sioux Falls and before that I lived in Kansas City.  It's just a tougher mentality here.  People seem to be less concerned about hurt feelings and are blunt and honest.  As an example when I first got here I inadvertently parked in a handicap spot at Subway and someone came in and called me out about it.  Thats a good thing imo, most people tell it like it is.

[Lonesome Dave]

Come on Chris, "inadvertently" were all buddies here!   

[chris_king]

Busted! haha

[greatbuffalo]

I've said many times since moving to SD that people are friendly but very difficult to get to know. A lot of very guarded people in this state.

[Hank]

I've said many times since moving to SD that people are friendly but very difficult to get to know. A lot of very guarded people in this state.

We all have stunted social skills from spending 7 months out of each year in doors.

[Fletch]

I've said many times since moving to SD that people are friendly but very difficult to get to know. A lot of very guarded people in this state.

I've never really thought about it, but apparently you are correct. I was talking to a guy in an airport bar a few months ago and after a few minutes he asks if I'm sure I'm from SD? I say yes and he say's that's weird because you are the only person I have ever met from SD that could carry on a conversation?

[plumber mike]

Political correctness is not high on the list of South Dakotans values, but honesty seems to be.

Much friendlier than the NY I grew up in.

Service oriented business and internet business seem to do best around here, but most restaurants don't survive. Very unusual area with regards to economy and local culture.

[Bogus Jim]

Out riding today, saw this place north of Spearfish. 4,000 sq. ft., 5 acres, nice big shed. Nice view to the south. Asking price $569,000. Yikes. This house didn't look that expensive (just big), I think the price is due to acreage and location. There are some fancy homes north of the interstate, must be where the movie stars live. Custom log homes, etc.

[Hank]

569?   That seems a bit unrealistic...

Sent from my Pocket Altair 8800

[Bogus Jim]

I thought so too. For sale by owner, maybe they're dreaming.

[Hank]

That is definitely on the high side..   We sure appreciate everybody's help, opinions, and housing leads.  Please keep them coming!

At this point we have a signed deal on our house, but it has a sale contingency on the buyer's end so there is no guarantee.