Musicians in San Francisco (home, school, university)

[Ja Shwicka]

I live in Ohio, i'm 22, and i'm trying to decide between going to school for audio production at Ohio University, or moving to San Francisco with the band i'm in. We have some connections there and they'll have a place to live. I want to play music for a living more than I want to get a degree, I'm just worried about the odds of making a living playing music in San Francisco, as well as how long it would take to start making any money playing music. Any advice, tips, or thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Josh

[InterestedinSC]

I'd try some other cities first...

This is one of the most talent-saturated area I have lived in and I have lived in 6 different countries so far, including France, Italy, Czech Republic, England and of course USA, the San Francisco, Bay area.

Only England comes somewhat close to what you will find here; It is packed with musicians and nobody is making any money.

So, you'd need a day job.

At least two or three actually, one to pay for your living expenses, another one to pay for your studies.

Then if you have some time and energy left, you may consider getting another job to pay for band-related expenses.
When would you play music, well, during your vacation, when you go home to visit Ohio.

This is not meant to discourage you, but to give you a perspective.

Best of luck!

[Ja Shwicka]

Alright, thanks for the advice. I appreciate it.

[xGrendelx]

I say go for it. If it doesn't work out, couldn't you just move back home and go to college then? If it's your dream to be a professional musician and you have a window of opportunity and you don't take it, you're probably going to regret it for the rest of life. Try it now while you still have a chance. College will be there when you get back.