Married? Single? Kids? Just out of college? or are you changing careers?
I agree - living in Manhattan is not the cheapest but you can find plenty of affordable places to live in the Northeast. Albeit not as cheap an IND or CMH but not that much more either.
Boston and Philly are both great towns with lots to do. Same with the DC area.
It all depends on what you want to do when you’re off. Culture? Nightlife? Outdoor activities?
Answer some of those questions and we can help you out.