Look, bud, as one who has lived for a long time on both sides of the border, I can assure you that you wont find it one whit easier in the US. Things are tough everywhere -- that should be no surprise to you or anyone else -- and in your field, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of people who thought making the jump to IT was gonna be their goldmine train to happiness. Well, guess what: youre one of many in a really crowded field, and unless youre really good at what you do, youre not going to shine any brighter than anyone else. That sounds cold, but its also true. And yeah, its more expensive in Canada, thanks to politicians who think that Revenue Canada is some sort of bottomless pit of money. But is that attitude any different in the States? Not really. Who do you think Canada learned the art of economics from, Great Britian? Your assessment of the medical services available... well, I can only guess that you live in Toronto. But out in Alberta, where I lived, the wait might have been long but the service was unequalled. The quality of care was never an issue. So I suggest you take your lumps and accept that youre not the only person in the world struggling right now. Things are tough all over. Thats how it is. If you think its gonna be better back in the States, then go back. But I can guarantee that we will see a DAMN THE US post from you about six months from now.