There are many factors to consider when comparing job offers - the salary and benefits, the taxes, the cost of living, the cost of leaving, and other costs incurred by taking the new job. Here are three job offers for similar types of work for which you are eminently qualified. You currently hold the job in Silicon Valley, but you are considering choosing the offers elsewhere. Location Silicon Valley, CA Seattle, WA Austin, TX Salary Offer $250K $200K $150K Retirement Benefits 8% contributed by employer 6% contributed by employer 7% contributed by employer Other Benefits Tax Rate 13% Cost of Living 60% above national average Cost of Leaving Not vested yet. You lose 4 years of retirement accrued Relocation Costs Up to $10,000 reimbursed 12% 40% above national average To break the contract will cost $50,000 penalty. Up to 4% of salary Stock option worth $200K 7% 20% above national average Not vested yet. You lose the stock option. Compensated an amount of $3000 You currently spend around $6000 per month in living expenses; you would live a similar lifestyle wherever you work. Project your total earning for five years into the future whether you stay put or take one of the other job offers. Which scenario provides the greatest accumulated earnings after five years?