Looking to relocate. Advice?

Hi everyone! I’m hoping to move out of state within the next 1-2 years and would love some advice from teachers who have relocated, especially if you’re in your 20s.

I’m currently an elementary teacher and expect to have about 3-4 years of 4th grade teaching experience when I move. I’m 23, single, and would really like to move somewhere where I can meet other people around my age and have an active social life.

Here’s what I’m looking for:

• ⁠1-bedroom rent around $1,200/month or less (or reasonably close)
• ⁠Teacher salary around $55,000+ with 3-4 years of experience
• ⁠A decent job market for elementary teachers
• ⁠A good population of people in their 20s and early 30s
• ⁠Preferably a city or smaller city/suburb near a larger metro
• ⁠I don’t need public transportation and am completely fine driving (although public transportation would be amazing)
• ⁠I’d love somewhere with things to do outside of work: restaurants, bars, events, outdoor activities, etc.
• ⁠I’m open to basically anywhere in the U.S.

I’ve been looking at places in Texas and Tennessee, as well as North Carolina, Colorado, and other parts of the Southeast, but I’m definitely not limiting myself to those states.

I’m also open to living in a smaller/cheaper city and commuting to a nearby district that pays better.

Right now, I’m mainly trying to narrow down the huge number of possibilities and figure out which cities/areas are actually worth researching and visiting. I’ll eventually travel to and visit the places that make my shortlist before making a decision.

For teachers who have moved out of state: Where would you recommend for someone in my situation? What cities or metro areas should I be looking at, and are there any places you would avoid?

I’d especially love to hear from people who are actually living and teaching in these areas. If you could include your approximate salary, rent, school district, and what you think of the social life for someone in their 20s, that would be incredibly helpful!

Thanks! :)