I'm a recent master's graduate and currently in the final stages of interviewing for a Research Associate position at a firm in West LA.

The advertised starting salary is $75k. During an initial phone call, I mentioned my expectations were $85–90k. Before my in-person interview, the recruiter called to ask whether I'd consider a lower salary, and I said I was open to it.

I was flown out for the interview and genuinely liked the team. The role seems like a great opportunity for mentorship, professional development, and breaking into the industry. I have one final assessment remaining and haven't received an offer yet, but based on their timeline I think everything would move very quick.

My hesitation is that accepting would mean relocating across the country. I've always lived on the East Coast and was primarily targeting Boston or DC. I know neither is particularly affordable, but at least I could realistically live without a car.…