I live in the Los Angeles county. I live 24 miles from my job. That distance is equal to 1.5 to 2 hours commute time. Throw in a sig alert and you are skrewed. Choose an area to live where you never ever ever have to travel the 405 freeway.
Everything is more costly in CA - the houses, gasoline, insurance -- everything.
This native suggests you move to Texas. ;)
You might want to explain to DC what a SIG alert is.