Location, Location, Location
Location remains a pivotal factor in determining success, even in an era of increasing hybrid and remote work environments. This principle extends beyond real estate to encompass various aspects of work and business. Positioning oneself at the intersection of opportunities can significantly impact physical or metaphorical outcomes. As social beings, we thrive on collaboration and connection, not just for basic survival but for the exchange of ideas and advancement across multiple domains. Therefore, selecting an optimal location should be crucial when deciding where to study, work, and live.
When searching for work opportunities, I carefully evaluated multiple cities in the US before settling on Houston. Given my educational background, several locations were potential candidates. However, Austin emerged as the clear choice after analyzing various tech hubs. I initially considered New York and New Jersey, having completed my graduate studies there and being familiar with the area. These regions are notably immigrant-friendly, and despite the typical big-city attitudes, people focus more on your contributions than your origins.
However, since completing my degree in 2021, the inflation rate has been noticeable. My past one-bedroom apartment in North Bergen, NJ, which cost $1,100 then, is now listed at $2,000 in 2025. Even at the original price, it felt overpriced. This pattern of increasing costs is evident throughout NYC and most of NJ, making it challenging for newcomers to establish themselves. Similar circumstances exist in San Francisco. Seattle and Washington, D.C., presented comparable challenges.
My first visit to the Lone Star State left a lasting impression. I recalled Robert Metcalfe’s talk at Rice University in 2012, where he discussed efforts to transform Austin into a tech hub. Those efforts eventually succeeded since they’re attracting many entrepreneurs and tech companies. Additionally, Austin, Houston, and Dallas have reasonable living costs and pleasant weather throughout the year, despite some warm periods, making them particularly attractive.
While I continue to explore my options, location remains a primary consideration when relocating. Starting anew somewhere is challenging, but choosing an area that allows you to utilize your skills effectively is worth the effort. Stay tuned for updates in my next post.