I could use some advice about relocating.
For background, I live in a medium large, very nice midwestern city that’s highly rated for being a great place to live. I have a nice house, a spouse and young children (infant and 4 yr old). I make a good living here as a senior engineer (web ~90k). For the last 2 years I’ve turned down invitations to interview with several highly regarded, established names in the Valley. I’m 40 years old (but appear 5-10 yrs younger). The job options where I am now are limited to a handful of small start-ups and very large financial/insurance (where I’d stagnate). I’ve worked hard and had great luck. I really like where I am now (medium sized, well-known company) doing app development in a rich problem domain, under a great manager, team, stack - you name it. Our Business is finding it’s way through some rapid change though (layoffs, etc), and I’m not sure how much longer the current environment will last. I feel like in 3-5 years I will regret having passed these invitations up.
Reasons I haven’t made the move:
1. My son has a serious health condition. It will likely require a major surgery in the near future (3-6 months). We have great insurance and get great care from a well-respected hospital 20 minutes from our home.
2. My wife’s job is great, but it’s tied to the area. Financially, any increase in salary I might make out there, wouldn’t make up for the loss of my wife’s income and the increased cost of living. Longer term, her earning potential much greater than mine.
3. I love where I live. I grew up near NYC. I’m doubtful I would enjoy the same standard of living & quality of life I enjoy here, there.
I feel like I have some options here for the next few years, but I’m losing sleep over it now. What would you do in my situation?
