Eh, sure those things could be better. Staying near to friends and family, keeping daughter close to some of the top medical for her condition, school choice, cost of living, not having to commute long term to achieve those things. In 10years these things won't likely change much, whereas pay, work rules, and even the ability to have a job can change overnight. Having seen and experienced both the 9/11 and 08 drops, I'll hedge my bets to where my family can establish happily versus chasing a different version of pay check.