Getting a near-by-bus job in your field isn't necessarily a drop of a hat thing either, although generally still easier than moving. I've been in the position

Getting a near-by-bus job in your field isn't necessarily a drop of a hat thing either, although generally still easier than moving. I've been in the position of choosing a half hour drive or a two hour bus ride -- from experience I prefer the former. This is partly up to differing values as well: Not all side projects are bus-portable, and for myself a consistent work schedule is a drawback. I'm also fortunate enough to covet few physical possessions, making moving easier for me than others, although it still took me a year to get around to moving right next to my current workplace. Similarly, some people find some physical work vs personal life separation to be important, to better do the same separation emotionally -- they would find my 60 seconds by normal walking pace commute intolerably close.