Lab Technician in research currently working in a grad school. I am learning web development in my spare time as well.
1) Budget-wise, I'm currently spending sub-$800 on my apartment here in TX and can stand to do the same in Canada. If I land the exact same job it means ~$2200 a month. Don't use cable but internet is sub-$100 and I spend $100-300 a month for groceries.
2) Haven't really thought about being close to the border or not. Any particular benefits to living close or far? I don't mind either way at the moment.
3) I like the cold better than the heat. The only thing that usually pisses me off is slipping on ice.
4) I can fuck with bagged milk
5) I'm learning it. Literally at the beginner stage.
6) I don't speak French but as for religion, I might look for a Baptist church and go once a month just to sate my parents. I myself am not a bible-thumper.
7) Amenities: Internet and watching movies. That's honestly pretty much it. Only time I'm ever into sports is during the Olympics. Don't watch live music. Not a big drinker or partyer so no need for a place with a busy nightlife.I do enjoy the fine arts so a museum and a playhouse would be nice to have nearby but not a necessity. All I really need is a nearby bookstore, theater & a mall.
8) At this point in my life, I'm 100% good with renting for the rest of my life.