If you're a developer, like many here, you can work remotely. Of course you will have less opportunities that if you're willing to move to Bay Area or NYC, but

If you're a developer, like many here, you can work remotely. Of course you will have less opportunities that if you're willing to move to Bay Area or NYC, but that's a choice to make. Do you prefer to prioritize on your career completely or are you will to compromise on that for a better living environment for you and your family? Nobody said it's a obvious choice to live in a smaller city, but it's important to know that (if you're a developer) you have that choice. You can opt out of the rat race and make less, or work on less exciting projects, but still make a decent living.