As crazy as it sounds, its just as mcuh for easy access to things as it is to not have to live in the "downtown metro" area I work in. For example, my trip would basically be a straight shot on a less busy highway, whereas if I moved downtown it would take about 10-15 min to travel a few miles.

The walking is definitely something to think about. I have a tendency to stay in a bubble where I live so those things being close is nice. But you've made me realize that moving downtown I will be close to shops and such also. So that might be a wash.

I didn't mention before but the place I'm looking at would easily go for 150+ more a month to get a comparable close to work. That may be a wash also when you consider the extra miles on the car. Ugh! Its so hard to decide