Deciding between VA Beach, Boston or Wash DC area- help!

[gmagg]

As I am now looking at places to live, yes DC area is expensive, but not as bad as NYC (Manhattan) and the surrounding which is insanely expensive. But Chicago looks like a big city bargain compared to the rest, unfortunately its not one of the places I am considering a move.

[dawnsnook2010]

I have lived in Va Beach for 2 years now, and am not impressed with it.
The wages are low no matter where you work ( whether it is a job that requires a college degree or just high school), and the housing cost is astronomical ( and quite laughable at what you get for your money here). I would not recommend this area.