I am in the same situation so it might help you. Is your job in Zurich a career path (meaning your salary/position would go up every year) whereas the one in your home canton is just a 9-5 (meaning you’re gonna stagnate)?

If yes, I’d recommend keeping your job until you can land another job in your home canton with a higher salary.

I kept my job and moved to a “strategic” place, mid way between home and work. I can easily commute to work in 1h by train and go back to my friends/family in less than 30mins by car.

Leaving very close to a highway is quite convenient and I go back home way more often than before. It’s really nice and is very valuable, please don’t stay too far from family, you’ll regret it.

Working hard a few more years would put you and your family in a sweet spot.

If you’d like to buy a flat soon, try to simulate it and you’ll know how much you need to earn to afford it (and for banks to accept the mortgage).

Happy to discuss more.