Relocating from Miami to Austin or Richmond

[transferlh]

Hey all! I'm currently an ER nurse in Miami fl with a year experience in the ER and two years in the icu. I'm looking to locate to either Austin Texas or Richmond va (both locations for personal reasons). But I'm wondering if anyone can provide incite to either location, what the hospitals are like, pay, places to live in the city, ect? Any information would be greatly appreciated! The cost of living in Miami is getting ridiculous with the pay! And if it helps I'm 28 years old and moving with my bf who is a rad tech in the cath lab!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

The cost of living in Austin is high (for Texas standards) and the pay rates are piddling due to supply and demand. With three years of experience, most local hospital systems will offer you in the low to mid $20s per hour.

You'd be paid significantly more in other Texas cities such as Houston and Dallas. In addition, these cities have a lower cost of living so your money would stretch further.

[Horseshoe, BSN, RN]

Well, Dallas rentals have inched their way up to record levels. Which is surprising to me, considering the inventory SEEMS to be plentiful.

Dallas is The Most Expensive City For Apartment Renters, Plano Ranks Fourth According to ApartmentList | Candy's Dirt

[transferlh]

I was given a number around 26 an hour base pay which seems like such a pay cut from the 33 I'm making now, which is discouraging in Austin. But in Miami I'm currently paying around 1600 for a one bedroom/bathroom apartment. It seems like Austin is about the same? I definitely don't want to move only to find I'm struggling more financially than if I stayed in Miami!

[Horseshoe, BSN, RN]

Do make note of the fact that Texas does not have a state income tax, while VA does.