For me, ATL is the closest domicile, and it's still 3.5 hrs away. Commuting will most likely be in my near future, no matter where I decide to hang my hat. I have already resigned myself to that fact. After that, if I still hate it, I can move.

As I said, upgrade and reserve times aren't a very viable target, but I added them to the list, because they ARE things to consider.

Hopefully, this list is generic enough for anyone to use to compare potential regionals, not just me. A lot of the good info I have picked up here on APC (domicile, QoL, not commuting, etc.) are still great things to consider, but may not be much of a factor in selecting that first regional for some. One could sit back and prioritize regionals for 6 months, and never make a good decision, or flip a coin today and get really lucky. One thing that IS certain about the industry is that NOTHING is certain, except sucky FO pay!