If only economics were the only factor in commute time. Housing price, cost of living, and public school quality play a significant role in determining where t

If only economics were the only factor in commute time. Housing price, cost of living, and public school quality play a significant role in determining where to live for many people. I've avoided positions in cities like New York and Washington DC precisely because I didn't want to (a) live in a shoe box, (b) spend 3+ hours in a daily commute, and/or (c) pay for private schools. I would take a pay cut to reduce my commute and relocate to a lower-cost area. How much is almost entirely based on how much I can reduce my mortgage payment.