Choose an affordable location.

Now I know - most people aren't just eager to jump up and move - it's not fun. Consider, though, what portion of your monthly spending goes to your housing payment and utilities. 25%, 50%, maybe 75%? Do you live close to work? Are you paying a high price for that prime location? Where I grew up this was not a significant difference but in a large metropolitan area living "in town" and 30 minutes away meant for us $1000 less in our housing budget.