I have always commuted, I, as well as others don't mind it, we have our system down. Like anything you do the more you do it the better you get at it. Commuting to an outstation from CLT should not be an issue, commuting to a hub is a different story. DCA and PHL you will probably be on full main line flights. Of course there is always IAD and Scranton. I used to do 2 leg commutes to DAY, I really liked the crews and the flying there. Consider, when you upgrade you may be on reserve for a very long time in CLT, and that may mean lots or ready reserve. Not a big deal if you live a half hour away or less, but it could become old driving in to sit hot if your commute is an HR or more. I would write off other bases CVG and TYS both have great cost of living and are good places to live.