Ryan - Who do you work for? 10 years you have said? Wow. I've been a regional FO, who commutes, for the past 2.5 years. I've not made it home or to work 1 time in that time frame. Vast majority of trips are commutable both ends. Obviously not all regionals are equal, but damn. Very hard to
believe your QOL is that bad.

To the OP. Every regional and everyone's situation is different. I've had a really good career at a regional; all things considered. I do commute, but I live where I want to live and where I am happy. This is something BIG I want to stress.

On paper and from a logical sense, of course living in base is ideal. However, what good is it living in base if you are completely miserable living there? I did it for one year. Norfolk, VA. I don't care how you attempt to spin it. It was and is a collasal **** hole. I also have no desire to live in DC, Philly (gross) let alone afford NYC as fun as it would be.

I live back home in the Midwest where I am from. Born and raised. When I'm done working, despite a commute of course, I go back to a place I'm truly happy living and where my friends and family are. That is what is important. Live where you want! Most regionals, once you get some seniority, offer commutable trips at least one end.

At the end of the day, it's pretty damn cool and unique that you can live wherever you choose and still do this job. Some people are forced to move and live in, less than ideal places, for work.