Potentially moving from Detroit to McLean - have questions (apartment, to rent)

[aleaston]

Hi there everyone. I currently live in Detroit and recently interviewed with a very large corporation in McLean VA. I am a 35 year old professional female. I am wondering about housing/apartment prices in McLean and surrounding areas as well as neighborhoods. It doesn't have to be too fancy but of course I would like something decent. I am also wondering about the transporation system there. Being from Detroit, the automotive capital, there is no public transport (besides buses which I will not take). It is essential to have a car here. I hate driving, I hate being stuck in traffic and wonder if there is a good transportation system if I don't have a car there. Also, is $70 to $80 K a salary one can comfortably live on there? With this salary in Detroit, one can live comfortable but I have a feeling it won't go far in the McLean area. Your comments are greatly appreciated! Thanks!

[VRE332]

your feelings are true... you might be able to rent someone's basement

[DC Oldtimer]

Take the job! You will have no problem living here on 70-80K.

If there is any housing in McLean that fails to qualify as decent, I have never seen it.

You will need a car, but if you live close to work you wont have to drive far. You can arrange to live where you do a reverse commute ... going the other way from the traffic (which will be headed into DC). It shouldnt be a problem if you plan well.

I will be shocked if you dont like McLean better than Detroit. And as I tell everyone in your shoes, it is never (well, almost never) a mistake to get experience in D.C. It's one of the best things you can do for your career.

[DC Oldtimer]

For more specific advice come on over to the Northern Virginia thread. Some folks there know the McLean area better than I do.