Message #74881

[Katie G]

I would say you have to listen to your head and your heart together on this one.

For your head:  sit down and come up with a spreadsheet listing the costs of the move, as suggested by other posters.  Changes in living expenses, changes in commute, whether you rent or own your home could be a big factor -- if you own, could you sell without losing your equity?  Would it sell at all in this economy?  If you rent, how long are you locked into a lease, if at all?  Would your employer assist at all with moving expenses or is that all on you?  Would they provide some kind of temporary housing if necessary?  What's the job market where you are currently?  What are the chances you could get another job where you are?

For your heart:  Are you close to family/friends where you are?  How will a 50 mile move affect those relationships?  Do you have children?  What about their schools?  (In the US, public school districts can vary widely in quality from location to location and the local school distric is a major decision factor for a lot of families with children.)  Can you live with four hours of your day being taken up with commuting?  (as one who can easily spend up to 3 hours a day, a guaranteed 4 would send me over the edge!)  Do you have parents who need your help occasionally - or more than occasionally? 

I had this happen to me many, many years ago. I didn't move because I did not make enough at the job to pay for the extra gas, wear and tear on my car, increased tolls, increased taxes, etc.  BUT, I had an opportunity open up that was more money and closer, so for me it was a no-brainer.  Your situation may be far more complex.