I'm currently renting my friends place out for the next month until he and his wife get back from Europe. After that I need move out no later than mid September as they are expecting and time to get the room ready for the baby.
I've got a couple choices and I need help thinking this through
1. Move closer to work (5-10 minute commute by car but I'd probably try to bike), a park I visit a lot, a kickass library, grocery store, shopping, and a cool bar that holds free events that I like. Of course this comes at a cost of nearly half my month's income or close to it depending on the apartment (can't find cheaper already looked). Would have to be an apartment complex, no houses for rent in the area. Estimated rent 750-1000
2. Stay basically in the same area I am, far from just about everything, except a semi decent library. But is reasonably priced but not cheap and is safe. Estimated rent 550-750.
3. Move to the other side of the city. Means roughly the same price as the area I currently live in. Comes with most of the perks of number 1 but will easily add 30 minutes to my already 20-30 minute commute due to traffic and having to go through the city. Estimated rent 550-750.
4. Move slightly closer into the city. Means rent will be about the same. Area is slightly more dangerous but would be within biking distance to downtown which has everything I would want and only add 10-15 minutes commute to work. Estimated rent 600-800.
If you can't tell I'm emotionally leaning towards number 1 but the rational side of my brain is saying you’re an idiot and to consider the other options. Number 2 is not really desirable as I'm rather bored here but may be the smart play for now. Number 3 while desirable in some areas, the commute is the one thing that's turning me off. Number 4 is sort of an ok idea but I'm not thrilled about it either way.
I will be getting a raise August 1st but don't know if it'll be a standard living raise or more than that.
I would really appreciate some advice and a face punch from the people here at MMM forums.