How far is too far to travel for work?

Question

I recently moved to a new state to take care of my elderly father. Since this is a college town, finding jobs that pay more than 10.00 per hour is hard. I don't have a college degree and I have an 11 year old child. I found a job that is 35 miles away. They are paying me 12.00 per hour. Gas prices in Kansas are around $2.03 per gallon and I drive a Saturn with a 13 gallon tank. I took this job b/c I needed something asap with medical benefits. Now I am have second thoughts. Is this job worth the traveling distance? There is no room for growth here, but it pays my bills. This is my first experience with traveling this far for work. I adverage 30-35 dollars a week in gas. Let me know what you think. Thanks

I can't leave the town I am in. My father lives here and he needs help with errands and other household things. I am in Kansas, and there is no public transportation to the city I work in. I have to drive. I leave at 6:20a m and arrive at work around 7:15ish. My job is ok, but i wanted other opinions regarding my travel. Someone told me I travel too far and the pay isn't worth it. Also people at work give me the crazy look when I tell them what town I live in. They say "man you must really get paid well" or "why do you travel so far?" I am confuse and need some input. Thanks

Also I don't think I travel too far. I lived in a major city and it took me 1hr by train to get to work. However since everyone here thinks I am nuts for traveling this far, I decided to ask you guys. Thanks for all your input

Answer 1

I live about 30 miles from where I work. A lot of people I know do the same thing because the city is where the jobs are. The gas prices balance out with what we are saving in taxes. (The property and sales taxes are higher in the county where the city is). Try making up a budget. It can help you decide. It is all up to you and what you are willing to do.

Have you thought about trying to get a job at the college? Even if it pays a little less, you probably can take classes for free. Getting college credits and perhaps a degree someday can help you find a better paying job.

Answer 2

Let's see -- 35 miles away, that should take you about 45 minutes. I used to travel by bus 1-1/2 hours one way. Left at 7 am, got home about 6:30/6:45 - that was normal commute from NJ to NYC. What seems to be the problem. Bus fare was around $80.00 per month.

Answer 3

Please don't worry so much. It's not the gas that's hurting you - it's the worry. If you do not think you travel too far, and if you like your job - that is all that matters. Look at other sides: you have a job, with medical benefits; you are kind enough to be there for your Father; and in doing so you are a wonderful roll model for your daughter.
I think you are a champion, and that you have all of your priorities in the right order! Hats off to YOU!

Answer 4

If it causes you to miss all 3 meals with your family then it's too far. If you're single, move closer to your job.

Answer 5

I believe if it is more than an hour away from your residing place then that is far too distant.