Guss,
I am a Senior Nursing student and currently work in a Cardiac ICU as a Cardiac Monitor Tech.

First - I moved away from my family 4 yrs ago when my wife and I got married. Its tough to leave your job, friends, family, and locality for a new life. However, when I look back I'm glad I did it. But, there are many times I miss my family - esp around holidays, family events, birthdays, etc.

Opportunities for nurses is booming everywhere - be they hospitals, doctors offices, clinics, home care, etc. The can be permanent positions, pier diem, or agency.

Most health care facilities want to see 1 yr of previous employment on the applicants resume prior to hiring them. Not always - but agencies do. Its shows the nurse has had some experience being employed in the hospital setting.

Just a thought - many agencies hire for contract positions with hospitals for 3, 6 or 1 year positions. Most offer housing assistance for their agency nurses as well as expense allowances.
I know a 36 yr old agency RN at my hosp that was receiving over $1200 per month in a housing allowance! Sheesh - thats a mortgage payment for God's sake! An agency position might give you guys an opportunity to see how you like it there and if you REALLY want to stay. Many times agency nurses are offered permanent employment thru the hospital directly at some point of their contract.

Today we have cars, trains, and planes making travel easier and less time consuming. Yes - you won't be hanging out with your family and friends every week - thats for sure.

Your sure faced with a difficult decision - I know I was.

When I go home to visit I know now that moving was the best thing I ever did. For me. But it isn't an easy thing going from a town you know to a new one and not knowing many people, and being in a strange community.

Good luck with your decision! Wish you the best either way!