Definitely consider the school district. We have family in PA with kids with various dx’s (ADHD, asbergers, PDD). Like your child, OT and speech therapies were very much called for. My BIL turned down a job that would double his salary when he realized that the school district in suburban Georgia would not offer any of these services. It was the right choice for his family – and the two kids are now in college having been able to mainstream and succeed with the help of therapy and IEPs. Having to pay for the therapy themselves would have more than negated the big pay hike.
Family support is another huge thing. You say your family is here. That could be a significant factor. Support and understanding go a long way in alleviating the stresses associated with dealing with the day in day out needs of a kid with autism.
