NYCdreams

This seems very low for California standards. I am here now and, depending where you live, everything can feel expensive. My advice: continue searching. However, NedRN has a great point. You want this first assignment to be successful, too. You should be able to find another opportunity with higher pay here in CA.

Hey Jody! I am actually thinking about doing the reverse trip across the US as you. As far as California goes, I would definitely recommend the Northern California area. There are so many great things to explore: San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, and you can't beat the Fall weather! Housing in Northern California is also relatively affordable (with the exception being the Bay Area). You can easily find a nice place in Sacramento, Central CA, etc. for under $1200/mo. Would you mind shining some light on what I can expect in New York City? I have only briefly visited in the past and would love the hear your first-hand take on living and working in NY, too.