We’ve been staying and working at our beach home since March and enrolled the kids in local public. They love it. I love it. My husband not as much but he prefers this home to considering a traditional NYC suburb. NYC likely not an option as I’d ultimately like to SAH and stop working - and we can’t afford both on his income alone. So, am I crazy to consider big life decisions during a pandemic? Anyone else consider moving permanently “out East” or have any insights to share?
We moved out East a few years ago for a few reasons. Kept a small city apartment. Best of both worlds no regrets. Keeping a toehold in the city helps a lot though.
Curious what school district you are in - Sag Harbor and Westhampton are considered to be the strongest.
Westhampton
It seems like you genuinely enjoy it so I don't think it's crazy at all to consider big life decisions -- in other words, I don't think the pandemic would be affecting your perceptions on this issue. What would your husband's work situation be?
He works for himself so he can really work anywhere - just needs to be in CA for a week for six times per year.
@Anonymous it’s a quick trip to JFK
See what winter is like.
@Anonymous winter is the same everywhere in the northeast!
How’s the peer group in your neighborhood and school? Some of the communities are very small, and small minded. The lifestyle is great and it’s beautiful there but can be lonely if you don’t have peers
NP agree with this.
@Anon a lot of people who moved there from NYC are bitter and unhappy. It can be depressing if you don‘t have friends who chose to be there. But with all the new people the social dynamic might change. After 9/11 a lot of people moved out there, but most didn’t stay long. Remote work might change that
But she's saying she's loving it so clearly this is not affecting her. I know we are in a pandemic, but if she were missing like minded people, I don't think she would be having the time of her life with her kids doing the same. It sounds like she's perfectly happy either with the people around her, or alternatively, just avoiding them. (On a personal level, ITA, but I would never even consider moving to Westhampton permanently.)
It depends on you and your spouse. It’s not a place all year for everyone. I have several bnr friends who are not incredibly thrilled with the influx.
posted above about moving East a few years ago. Also in westhampton. ignore the haters here - you know the community and there is a LOT to love. Agree with another poster that it can be a challenge to find your people here - that is the only issue we have had, but you do find the people at some point. The schools are good and life is definitely easier here vs. in the city.
@Anon yes and You only need one or two friends to make it work. Good luck!