Move to Oahu or stay in Pensacola?

[Justin Jones]

I'm in the Navy and my wife and I are nearing the end of my contract here in Pensacola. I have the option to stay here for another 4 years or move to Oahu for 4 years. I'm looking for investing advice but also for some life advice.

Below is the breakdown of income in both areas as well as a rough housing cost breakdown. Long story short we will still be able to save a good amount living in Oahu but we won't be able to buy a house. Whereas here in Pensacola we will be able to save a good amount AND buy at least one house, maybe two (this would be our first house and we want to have multiple rentals across the country by the time I get out). We're both relatively young (both 22) and we're trying to decide what the best course of action is. Both places we would be able to save about $800-1000/month after all expenses besides regular spending money. We're trying to decide whether the lost time/ money investing in real estate is worth it considering we'll be getting paid to live in Oahu and will still be able to pocket some money. We're young and relatively free of responsibility so if we're ever going to do it this is the time.

Only debt is 13,500 on my wife's car.

Our total NW right now including the car loan is about $1,550 (We saved all of our tax return which brought us above 0!)

Thank you guys for the help and advice!!

Honolulu: 

Total monthly income: 5463.71

Average price of apartments we've been looking at: 2000

Pensacola:

Total Monthly Income: 4122.71

Average home cost 200,000 

We have access to the VA home loan.