ScotnCan t1_j29zky2 wrote on December 30, 2022 at 6:46 PM

So there is a plateau when it comes to salary and happiness and that plateau is around $75,000 -$100,000 depending on where you are living. Even in an expensive market like New York where you used to live making more than $100, 000 generally speaking will not increase happiness. It sounds like your job comes with alot of flexibility and benefits. So if you are looking for more money to receive more satisfaction I would caustion you are unlikely to find it. However, if you are looking for more work satisfaction or a new challenge, you may find it, however, you may not find the same flexibility and ability to spend time with your young family.

TheDigitalMango t1_j2a7dsj wrote on December 30, 2022 at 7:36 PM

I understand the point about the plateau but $100k is just not it for HCOL/VHCOL areas. Here in SF Bay Area, rent for a 3bd can easily be over $3k (mortgage likely as much or more), and OP said childcare, though temporary, is $3100/mo. So that’s $73k+ already without accounting for any other expenses, savings, etc. at all. Bringing in $200k versus $100k for example would make a world of difference in quality of life and financial security.