Hi everyone, I'm a Texas native and have lived here my entire life. Im now 28 but have been kinda stuck in the same small conservative town I grew up in. Which as a cis gay man isnt the best. I was looking at Illinois because its considered a more popular choice for someone in the LGBTQ+ community. Also another reason is it being a colder state, I'm so tired of the heat here.
This would be my first time ever moving out of state, the most I've done is move across town. I dont know where in Illinois would be a good fit for me, Im a nerd for the most part, playing DnD and others games so maybe a place that has game/card stores or just an active community like that? I've tried your typical nightlife places like clubs and bars but overall its just not my thing.
Im currently a graphic designer at a print shop and live in a one bedroom apartment thats nearly $1400 a month before utilities. Im not sure how to go about job hunting from a different state but I guess that will require more research.
A couple of other questions I have are, what would be a good part of Illinois for someone like me to live? I've heard Peoria is nice but Im not sure.
What is colder weather living like in a place like Illinois? Winter here is 2 weeks of maybe some ice and sweater weather but thats it.
I know its probably not much to go off and probably sounds like Im rambling but I would love any other info that could possible be provided. Im nervous about moving someplace where I dont know anyone but the thing is other than my dad that raised me, I dont really know anyone in my currently town when it comes to friends and stuff.