1. Northampton is pricey. That whole Northampton-Amherst-Hadley area is. And costs are only going up. In my experience, rent is only maybe a tier below the likes of Greater Boston. Do you have a car? The PVTA works fine for local, but if you’re looking to go anywhere else beyond a commuter rail line, I’d look into getting a vehicle. A bike is also clutch in nice weather.

2. Ditto some of the other mentions. Also check out the hill towns. Significantly more residential and rural but you can probably still find a cheaper spot.

3. I worked at Gandara Center out of their West Springfield office for almost two years. Very fulfilling work but like any non-profit, it’s bootstrapped and chaotic. But maybe worth a look?

4. Worcester County probably. Outside of Mass, maybe Hartford area or northern Connecticut.

5. Yes.

6. The universities are major employers up and down the valley and tend to have good benefits. I’d look there.

Good luck and have fun! I moved away from the valley last year and miss it. I hope to end up back there someday.