Considering moving back to Denver - friends vs cost of living?
I’m originally from the Denver Metro Area and have lived in Montana for a few years. I currently live in Bozeman where the median single family home price is around $715k and rent for a two bedroom is $1,860 to $2,248.
My husband and I want to move, and we are deciding between Denver and Richmond, VA. I understand housing costs are high in Denver, and we will probably end up paying around the same for housing, but all of my friends are in Denver and the job market is much bigger than what you get in Bozeman. I feel I’d be able to increase what I’m making in Denver as there are just way more opportunities, and Bozeman wages have not kept up with the cost of living, party due to to the largest employer being the university and costs being driven up by an influx of wealthy outsiders. Also, I haven’t made many friends in Bozeman and I think having a community will increase my quality of life drastically.
On the flip side, we are currently not able to afford a home in Bozeman unless we want to live in quad or duplex, which to me is just a glorified apartment. I really, really want a home as I’m tired of apartment living.
In Richmond owning a home would be possible, but it’s a smaller town and has a smaller job market. I worry about starting with an employer, not liking it and not having many other options. My husband’s family lives in Charlottesville, so we would be closer to them, but I still worry about being friendless and isolated.
Which is the better place to move? I’ve been leaning toward Denver/Colorado but worry it’s the wrong decision financially. I’m feeling like I’m having to choose between community and affordable housing. Which one matters more? I would appreciate any insights you have to share.