I've been nomadic these past few years and have been able to save a good chunk of money. reached coastfire last year, then the markets happened...so my net worth is not much higher than before but still coastfire.

long story short: the nomadic life has been fun and am really grateful I've been able to save this money but I'm tired and want to live somewhere on a more permanent basis.

the main problem I'm grappling with is that I'm planning on moving to a VHCOL city (most of my friends are there, my job is based there, tons of cultural experiences) but the rent is so high. I'll still be able to max out my retirement accounts and possibly have some for my brokerage account each month but it's just such a huge increase from what I'm averaging now that it's a little hard to grasp.

I guess I'm posting here mainly looking for any similar experiences, advice, or honestly even validation/encouragement.

thanks in advance!