Quote:
Originally Posted by LAblondeGPhi
I think cost of living can vary quite a bit by location - there are so many variables. Gas, car use/public transit options, parking, entertainment, taxes and grocery options can be pretty different.
A friend of mine moved from Los Angeles to Austin, TX a couple of years after graduation. She obviously saved a lot on housing (rent was about 40-60% what she was paying in LA), but she noted that she spent a TON less on entertainment (bars, mostly) and taxes.
When I moved from LA to DC, hubs and I were able to go from two cars to one, and even drove a lot less on the one car we did have, which meant lower insurance.
*Winter* - depending on the government job, there still may be some leeway within a range - different "steps" within a level, etc. I think you should go through the application process, and if offered the position, negotiate. My philosophy is that women always talk ourselves out of negotiating better for our salaries (I'm completely guilty), and if you're at the position where they offer you the job, you have nothing to lose by asking.
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The big three are housing, transportation, and food, so those are the things to look at when comparing cost of living. The other stuff, like movies, bars, etc. probably doesn't make up nearly enough of your budget to make a difference. I guess if you go out a ton, you could consider that stuff, but this is why most financial advisers think the "give up your daily latte to save a bundle" is pretty much nonsense.
Anyway, even if the cost of living and the new salary mean a net loss, you have a very long career ahead of you. If you think you'd be happier in the new role, do it. The worst case is you hate it and end up going back to your old field.
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