For some, it's a harder decision to make. Should you move to gain access to better job opportunities? Obviously I can't tell you what to do; it's something you have to figure out on your own. But here are a few things to consider:

• What's most important to you? What gives you the most satisfaction? Is it your career that fulfills you? Your surroundings that make you happy? Being close to your family? This should be your primary determining factor.

• What are you willing to sacrifice for your career? Are you up to making a new network of friends in a city where you know no one?

• Does your prospective new residence actually present the opportunities you think it does? Thoroughly research the market. Visit. Check out job boards. Set up information interviews with prospective employers.

• Does your current locale really have a dearth of opportunities? There may be fewer jobs, but there's also likely to be fewer qualified candidates.

In addition, I'd recommend taking a look at Richard Florida's Who's Your City? The whole book is about deciding where to live, particularly in relation to your career. The accompanying website has a place finder quiz, which may help in making a decision.