Hello - My current TC is 120K in the midwest for non-tech program management. I have an opportunity in the bay area for TC of 190K. The role is similar to what I do today - it's not a career jump but rather lateral. Should I consider the move in anticipation of better roles (in tech) and opportunities in the future? My house hold TC will be close to 350K (both me and spouse are in non-tech). #bayarea #relocation #tech
I wouldn’t say $350k for a couple is very poor. If you don’t have kids, I’d say you’ll be fine and yes more opportunity in California.
We have 2 kids, they'll be going to public school. So they won't really affect the finances a whole lot. Again for non-tech roles you really need the right role and company - it's hard to get the high TC's you see on blind moving into the bay area. It happens but not very usual.
@blinddpre: even if they go to public school, the school ends at 2PM. So you'll need to find a private school from 2PM-6PM, which cost you shit ton of money.
Yes, you're going to be poor. Ask for at least a million for the $120k job in the midwest. Employers are willing to pay you that much for the weather. That's what people who haven't loved or earned in the Bay Area before 2010 will confirm. /s You can manage with half of it even after max 401k.
350 is more than enough for both of you. Idk if you’ll like it here, but it’s not because you’ll be “poor”
Don’t!
Stay in mid west
If you’re looking for different challenges, than yes. If you’re looking for more TC, don’t. Those insane TCs on blind are from SWE. Everyone else is more “market rate”. You’re seeing it with your offer of 190k but with housing being 8X Midwest prices. Also how do you value your sanity? Traffic, homeless, aggressive tech bros, etc
What is your current household income? You shared just yours. Your 120k on Midwest or let’s assume 240k with your spouse is much higher than 350k in Bay Area. I wouldn’t move.
My wife and I have 250K in the mid-west. The move to bay area adds 70K for me (new opportunity) and 30K for my wife (location adjustment) in total comp. At this moment, the only reason I'm considering this is for prospective opportunities and career options going forward.
You'll probably come out about even financially assuming no private school for the kids, people overblow the CoL adjustment here a lot. 3-4k extra post tax per month will cover it.
Stay put
Also came from the midwest a few years ago. Making very good money now, but looking back I wouldn't do it again. Its too congested, polluted, manners and that altruistic midwest charm of others doesn't exist here.
Prepare to be very poor for as long as you have this job. And jump 18 months later.