Which one would you choose?

[BMWL]

You choose to either;
Live in a very expensive area near family only, have no real friends in the area, a nice house, job and childcare with family support

Or

Live in a cheaper area, away from all family but surrounded by lots of friends and their children, a nice house, job and childcare but no family support

Just curious, as myself, DH and DS are in one scenario but thinking we may change to the other scenario in our 5-10 year plan.

Also if you have had to make the choice, are you happy it's the right one?

I’m very independent from my family and we are in option 2. I do get a bit jealous and upset we don’t have any family support. Friends aren’t the same for support esp if they have their own kids.

I think option 1 is great with young kids but as they get older option 2 would be better.

We chose the worst parts of both options except the nice house in a lovely area and haven't regretted it for a second.

No friends (yet), no family nearby, but we love it here.

Option 2 - to be honest I didn't even factor in having help from family when I made a choice to have a child ... we were already living in a totally new area, I quickly made friends and formed a supportive network.

I agree with @Pinkfrogs45 - option 1 with younger kids is a must for me. Then Option 2 could work well.

currently we are option 1! Would hate to not live near family just now xx