the cost of living is a bit high but not like a new york boston type price. i had a nice 3 bedroom appartment for 1200 a month for example. Reserve in sju a year ago went for 2-3 months but as long as you arent the last hot reserve (S3) youll fly a fair amount. I would imagine reserve time is even less now. Flying the atr will make you a better pilot once you get to the jet later. as BEEFF said the flying itself will teach you alot and the ATR is a great plane for that lesson.