I get few raises, and actually took a pay cut on paper to come here. That said, once I decided to stay here, I sold all my manufacturer specific scan tools, and paid off the Snap On truck account. All the rest went to Mrs. LAJ to do her savings and budget magic. Once I settled in here, I realized how much free time I gained, and that's worth more than one could imagine. Plus, the tool payments and the big one time expenses to keep abreast of auto technology stopped, which was a big ol yearly raise. What looks like less on paper could really be a whole lot more.
Can't put a price on a little extra free time!
Correct for my situation as well.. I'm technically taking a pay-cut moving back to CT from NY, but the housing situation (moving in with family) nets me an extra $7,200 for the year.. do-able for a year.