Reality check. It may be hard to find work in ski country.
While you might find some sort of employment, keep in mind; it may not be in
your chosen field. For the most part, people who live in or near ski towns are
both overqualified and underpaid for their work. If you are a ski or snowboard
professional, you may be in luck. But what will you do for the rest of the
year?
The following types of work may also be available:
Contracting work
Landscaping
Restaurants or fast food
establishments
Hotels
Real Estate
Retail
Selling ad time for
newspapers or radio stations
Bus driver
Housekeeping
UPS
FedEx
Teach School
Work in a bank
If you have a particular skill or craft that you feel would benefit a
mountain environment, you might consider starting your own business. But please
be aware that many people are not thrilled by the massive growth and
development in this area. Franchises and chain stores distract from the mood of
the town. You may need to rethink the idea of opening up another Summit County
McDonalds.
Even if your plans for moving to a mountain community involve starting a
business that relates directly to the needs of snow sport enthusiasts, you may
find that the local planning board favors franchises. If you were not active in
local politics in your hometown, as a businessperson in a mountain community,
you may need to have your voice heard. Otherwise, those that wish your town to
become a mini replica of a big city will win out.
You will probably not get rich by
moving out here, and most likely, you may spend some time being a bit poor.
However, that all depends upon what your definitions of rich and poor are.
Can you make the sacrifices in order to afford this lifestyle?