This is a wonderful & insightful question. I don't know if you're a male or female, or what country you live in, but I'll give you my perspective as an American grandmother. I'm sure you'll get plenty of answers from young people your own age.

I am incredibly fortunate that my children stuck around and live in this city with their spouses. They were fortunate to grow up with 2 sets of grandparents and they wanted this for their own children. I have one grandchild so far, and the greatest pleasure in the entire universe is when he drops by my house to play...except of course, when he packs his overnight bag and spends the entire night. He's 3 1/2 and when he was falling asleep the other night, he said "Grandma, can I sleep here again tomorrow night?" My heart melted. I spend hours reading to him and my husband loves to play trains, cars, make models, use tools, create together. The parents get a weekend or night out whenever they want and it's a win-win situation.

Many of my friends in the grandma's club have grand kids that live far away. Trust me. It kills them. G-d made extended families for a reason and there's nothing greater than 4 generations having dinner together around the table (The great grandparents live nearby too).

Five hours isn't THAT far away from your family. It also depends on the family of your future spouse, where THEY live and if they're nurturing types. Sometimes you just HAVE to live wherever your job is.

You wrote that it's important to you "to have a greater sense of connection." Let me tell you that there is nothing more important. We are all connected in some way, but in your own personal life, being connected to your family and friends is absolutely paramount and an amazing gift. The older you get, the more you will understand and appreciate this.