3 years ago I was a RJ Capt. bringing home $65,000 working about 16 days a month. I lived in my base and it was great, I was around the top 25% of my bases seniority so I could hold any type of trip I wanted. I could be home every night, or party on the layovers with my awesome crews. I was very happy and content to stay there. I was very lucky because when I was hirred the Regionals had sustained 30% growth of over 4 years. We where getting 2 plans a month a very long time. However there where a lot of guys that got stuck in the right seat which paid below livable wages. Those guys had it really tough, I dont know they did it. I guess the answer to your question is it depends on your seniority.