MoneyWatch with Jill Schlesinger Will a Move Blow Up Our Financial Future?
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Dec 27, 2025 Justin from St. Louis calls in to discuss his family's potential move to the West Coast for family ties. He shares insights on their impressive financial standing, including paid-off loans and a robust retirement portfolio. The conversation covers the stark cost of living differences, budgeting strategies, and the wisdom of renting before buying. They emphasize the importance of conserving cash and using home equity wisely to ensure a smooth transition without jeopardizing their financial future.
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Family Pull Drives The Move
- Justin and his wife want to move to the West Coast to be near his family and the better weather.
- They currently live in the Midwest and see a 40% cost-of-living increase as the main hurdle.
Saved Up Despite Student Debt
- Justin built substantial retirement and brokerage balances after paying off grad-school debt.
- He has $580k in IRA, $305k in his Roth, $30k in wife's Roth, $400k brokerage and $134k in 529s.
Low-Cost Living Built Their Move Fund
- A lower Midwestern cost-of-living can let you accelerate savings for a future lifestyle change.
- That built-up equity and brokerage savings make an otherwise expensive move feasible without derailing retirement.