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6) Major Financial Decisions
Moving cities for income upside
In your 20s, your biggest asset is your mobility. Don't be afraid to leave a cool city (like LA or NYC) for a high-growth hub. In 2026, cities like Raleigh-Durham (NC), Dallas (TX), and Pittsburgh (PA) offer high salaries with much lower rent. A $100k salary in Raleigh often buys a better lifestyle than a $140k salary in San Francisco. Moving for a 20% raise while lowering your rent by 30% is a 'wealth shortcut.'
In your 20s, your biggest asset is your mobility.
- Don't be afraid to leave a cool city (like LA or NYC) for a high-growth hub. In 2026, cities like Raleigh-Durham (NC), Dallas (TX), and Pittsburgh (PA) offer high salaries with much lower rent.
- A $100k salary in Raleigh often buys a better lifestyle than a $140k salary in San Francisco. Moving for a 20% raise while lowering your rent by 30% is a "wealth shortcut."
Free Resource: Top 10 U.S. Cities with the Best Job Opportunities in 2025!
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