I'm considering a job offer in Ohio that offers a $15,000 salary increase but requires me to be in the office three days a week instead of the one day I currently go in. I make $125,000 as a senior system administrator and have been at my current job for nearly 20 years. The new company has a slightly lower 401k match—4% compared to my current 5%—and I'd also lose vacation time, going from 6 weeks down to 3 weeks. My wife works full-time as well, and we have a 3-year-old. Given these changes, I'm curious about the value of remote work and whether the offer is worth it.
5 Answers
Considering commuting costs like gas, maintenance, and even added meals out, I think going to the office three more days a week makes the raise feel less appealing. You might end up right back where you started financially, plus losing precious time with your kid. I would seriously consider holding out for another opportunity unless your current position is toxic.
To add to that, even with the raise, the real value of your time and well-being seems to drop with this offer.
Ultimately, if you’re content with your current position and have solid financial standing, this offer doesn’t seem worth it for the small increase. There are plenty of companies offering remote positions, and you might find better opportunities if you keep searching.
Right on. It’s important to consider not just the salary, but the overall lifestyle and benefits you’ll have.
Exactly! Stability and job satisfaction are as important as salary.
How much is that raise really worth after taxes? It’s likely less than it sounds, especially with the loss of three weeks of PTO. Plus, factor in any changes to your child care situation and how that impacts your family time.
Great point! If the new position shifts your lower budget for childcare, that 15k can disappear fast.
Most definitely. The commute can also add hours every week, which takes away from your family time.
Losing three weeks of vacation to get a $15k bump is risky. You should weigh how much each week of PTO is truly worth in your industry.
Agreed, losing that much vacation time can erode your overall compensation.
Exactly, add in what you're losing from the 401k match—makes that raise look smaller.
For me, remote work is a game changer. It greatly improves my quality of life—I save time commuting, can manage household tasks during breaks, and spend more time with family. I wouldn’t consider a job without strong remote work options. This job sounds like a downgrade, not an upgrade.
You can't put a price on mental health and time saved. I’ll take remote work any day over extra pay.
Absolutely! It’s not even just about the money; it's about the lifestyle.
Exactly, three weeks less vacation is a huge deal. That shouldn't be overlooked.