Madison has better beaches, better youth sports facilities, and a brand new elementary school and community center in the works. Guilford has a new high school and better shopping and more restaurants/commerce. When I say “better” it’s not by much. They are very similar towns, and you won’t go wrong with one over the other. I would recommend walking around each down town and visiting the beaches (go to the Surf Club and Jacob’s beach) to see what feels best to you.

Yes, this is a problem, more than the salary I think. It’s one thing to be paid X for a part time job. But how are you supposed to find a career that allows you to work the other part of the year? It limits public service to people who can work for themselves or not work at all.