Which location is in your opinion better? I am single, female SWE in my 20s. I think it's nice in California and probably it's better to be in headquarters. I am tempted to take the offer to California despite the taxes and higher COL. Do you think it is a good idea?
For me Seattle weather was a deal breaker. However some people love it there. If you're one of them you'll be financially ahead there specially that there are many more companies there now compared to 10 years ago so mobility isn't as big of an issue anymore. Early in your career HQ vs not won't make a big difference. As you get more senior, you need to be near the decision making to have big impact and visibility. You can still grow remotely but definitely harder than HQ imo
Mountain view all the way
If the compensation were the same in both places, in Seattle you’d get 25% bump because of cheaper living and no state tax.
Single, female, 20s...MTV all the way...HQ is always way better for career growth. Seattle weather is not for everyone. I just moved from Seattle to MTV a year back and love it here. If you want to talk more msg me.
This. Prioritize learning, networking and growth at this stage over taxes and traffic. HQ is significantly better than satellite offices.
MTV for sure if you are interested in variety of projects... Kirkland or Seattle if you care about cost of living. Your compensation will account for the taxes and little bit of the cost of living
MTV Google is lit so many restaurants compared to other campus you are loosing that experience by not going to HQ
What’s the pay difference? Are the teams the same?
I don't know yet. Hoped that some people can help. But according to blind there is almost no pay difference and in Washington there is zero taxes and housing is much cheaper. I am in team matching phase, so didn't get the offer yet. Told my recruiter that I am interested in both location. So far talked to 2 managers with interesting projects in Bay Area. I am quite tempted to take it, but am afraid that I can regret it because of the higher costs of living and hence less money that I can save in CA.