to go for a job with less money?

[Umbrella5]

Job is perfect in every way except salary (£3k less than I currently get). Pays £19k and I'm now on £22k.

Would I be mad to do it? Would you do it?

I did :)
Definitely a good decision. Money isn’t everything. Far from it in fact.

Can you afford the pay cut? If yes, go for it!

I don't think I would in the face of it

Unless you can tell me specific changes that would make it a game changer, maybe significantly less travel

What is different, that makes you even tempted ?

Can you afford it? Is there chance of payrises so you’ll get back to where you were eventually?

Being happy at work is worth a lot.

If you can afford it. If it’s closer to home. If it has good benefits.

It's less travel, under 10 miles away by car while I currently commute 40 mins on train

How does it compare when you factor in travel costs? And take home pay... Tax, pensions etc. And lunch costs?

The two salaries might be closer than you realise when you're talking net money in your pocket after expenses paid

Well calculate the amount of money you'll save in travel costs. And that's an hour a day you'll save time wise. And if you consider your time is worth £10 an hour you're saving £10 x 5 days a week. X 45 weeks working a year (for example) and that's £2,250 right there.

Your pay per hour outside your home would probably increase. And travel would cost you less.

On the other hand, future pay rises will be based on your pay. By that logic, though, you may find they can offer you a bit more if you negotiate.

I’ve got an interview next week for a job paying £7k less and unsure what I’ll do if offered. But it’s in the area I want to work in and the recruiter feels there may be some negotiation, so I have just decided to see what happens first.

Interesting post. I’m looking at a job worth £4, 500 less, less stress/responsibility, closer to home. BUT, I just looked at my pension projection and the last ten years of your earnings are what count, so I’m wary of dropping money. 🙁

I have done it recently and I don’t regret it for a minute. Closer to home, better working hours, less stress.