All regionals are not the same. I know you guys just got raises and a few good CBA changes but frankly it's still far behind the leading regionals. Compared to how things were in the 2000's and 20 teens, the current better regionals are actually darn good jobs. Picking a regional is as important as picking a legacy. They are not all the same.

Now, the LCC/ULCC and legacies all improved greatly too over the period. That said for many that live in the base, a regional career is very appealing and if you think all is sunshine and palm trees at the legacy your'e mistaken. They have their issues too. Long term career wise you can't beat the money at a legacy, but both the LCC/ULCC and Regionals are certaily legitimate options as well. Living in base at a regional is generally a much better QOL that any commuting. So, it comes down to what is most important to you? Money, or QOL? Now, if you can move easily.... get to that Legacy and live in base. Best of both issues.

Finally, I'll add that flying your own brand has long term security value. You aren't going to be subject to a whipsaw flying your own brand. This gives the edge again to going to the LCC/ULCC over the regional.