[onewhippedpuppy]

Originally Posted by look 171

Matt, I know money doesn't always bring happiness, but in Jeff's situation, being out of work with bills beating down his doors, having a well paying job will take a huge load off. Without a well paying job or money, shouldering that weight can be a real btich in the long run especially if you are trying dig yourself out of a ditch. I have been there in my younger years but thankfully my immediate family is here in LA with endless support, just not financially. Lost my long time girlfriend, I had to let her go and couldn't drag her deeper in my mess no longer. Lost my shop and all my equipments, with no job for a couple of years and a few hundred bucks in my bank. The downturn of the economy kick my teeth in the mid 90s.

Trust me, I know how both you and Jeff felt. I was laid off in April of last year and didn't find a new job until December. That's a gut check moment when you are trying to support a wife and three kids. But I believe Jeff is at the moment gainfully employed.

My only point was to not make a move just for money. Having plenty of money removes a huge stress, but also does not alone create happiness just as having more stuff doesn't create happiness.

Jeff, how closely have you looked at salaries in the areas you mentioned? I know in my searching last year (aerospace industry) I found the salary in TX and AZ to be very close to CA salaries but with significantly lower cost of living. PHX is more expensive than TX, DFW is about as cheap as life gets.