Option to move to San Diego

[Maighnuad]

So my career has finally taken off and I am 53 and potentially being asked to move to San Diego.
it would only be me. My son is 20 currently so would stay at home in Ireland.
Partner will remain at home for the interim.
The thought behind it is go and earn the big bucks for say the last 5 years of my working life. I’ve been with the company 26 years.

So what do I need to negotiate ?

Whats a comfortable salary ? And what else do I need to think of ?
Does it make sense to rent as opposed to buy - thoughts ?

As a single person? Don't settle for less than $150K (and I'd try for $200K), you'll want to enjoy your time and be able to take trips and do things. More would be better. Renting is a good option when you are single (no worries about finding a large place, school catchments etc) and lets you find where you like.

San Diego is gorgeous but pricey. Everything is expensive in CA and they have high state taxes. But with no kids to worry about? I'd absolutely snatch the chance and have some fun.

Oh - health cover isn't quite as much of an issue if it's just you (family insurance being much more expensive) - but find out how much of the premium you are expected to cover and what the deductible is; this can make a difference to what salary offer you accept (you can accept a slightly lower wage if they pay all your premiums, and it's a tax advantage that way). Holiday leave, and moving expenses. If you've been with the company 26 years, you should get at least 4 weeks leave. Don't let them treat you like you're starting from scratch in America. Also they should be sorting out the visa for you.

Thank you great points there. I’d want to keep my current vacation allowance and will negotiate the salary and check on the health insurance.

Do not be so attached to keep your vacation allowance as 3 weeks would be generous here in the US. Negotiate over salary rather than vacation allowance.

I would say go for it and yes 150 k salary- rent will be from 3-5 k for a nice apartment and it would be standard to contribute 5-700 a month to your health insurance even with a good employer, hence why you need the good salary.
SD is lovely and you could choose to live more frugally housing wise maybe share with someone? and save on 150 k a year I reckon. Go home in 5 years time with 200-250 k- that would be nice and worth the upheaval right?

Min $150k. I’m on just over $220k on the west coast. It’s comfortable but not mega bucks. And there are two of us. If I were single I would not want to be below $150k.

Thank you