Quote:
Originally Posted by BleedBurgundy
Ok, I just was informed that I'll be getting a call from one of my higher ups later today offering me a job in McLean, VA (our corporate HQ). The position is similar to the one I hold now as IT Admin but with much higher visibility. I have some questions about the area and I'm hoping someone on here can offer some advice.
1) I make 75k now, this position would pay 80-90k. Moving from Lancaster, PA down to the greater DC area... will that bump make up for the increase in cost of living? Around here, 75k is a decent salary for someone in their 20's. Not sure about that area.
2) Housing. If I take the position, it's probably going to be with the understanding that it will lead to something else in the next couple of years. I currently own my home, but I think I'd be looking for an apartment, at least at first. Any good areas to look for (either renting or purchasing) that are not too terrible of a commute?
3) Wife is also in IT. How is the market in the area for the field?
Anyway, those are the big questions... Any help you guys can lend is appreciated.
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1)I doubt it seriously. I have no ide about the COL in Lancaster but I'd bet it's on the order of 25% less than NoVa
2)Coming from Lancaster you'll probably not have any idea what you're getting into here. The Metro area is huge. You can live anywhere in a two state plus DC area. There are numerous "areas" to live in. Mclean itself will be insanely expensive. Same with Vienna. Fairfax would be a little better. Those are right near Mclean. Going farther out will get cheaper but will exponentially increase your commute.
3)IT in Nova is second only to probably to Silicon Valley. There are tons of Tech companies...but what does she do? Getting a job right now in any field is somewhat hard. Without a Security Clearance too she'll find it a lot more difficult.