Relationships & Dating

Long distance while one of us is in DFW: Is it worth it?

My partner got a job offer in Austin. I can't leave DFW because of my job (in-person, no remote option) and my family is here.

We've been together 2 years. The options:

Option A: Long distance (DFW to Austin)

  • 3-3.5 hour drive each way
  • $60-80 in gas round trip
  • Or $120-250 flights (DAL to AUS on Southwest)
  • See each other every other weekend?

Option B: They decline and stay in DFW

  • $20K less salary than Austin offer
  • Might resent the decision later

Option C: Break up

  • Neither of us wants this but "be realistic" is what everyone keeps saying

What I need to know:

  • Has anyone done DFW to Austin long distance? How long did it last?
  • Is the drive actually doable every other weekend or does it get old fast?
  • At what point do you decide to close the gap?

I've never done long distance. I don't know if I'm built for it.

Am I wrong here?

Community ReportAutomatedSource: Community ReportPublished: Apr 2, 2026, 8:10 PM

3 Comments

Did DFW to Austin for 14 months. The drive gets old by month 3. Southwest flights are the way if you can swing it — 55 min vs 3.5 hours. We made it work and closed the gap when my lease ended.

The 35 corridor on a Friday afternoon headed south will test your relationship more than the actual distance. Leave before 2pm or after 8pm. Trust me.

My honest advice: set a deadline. "We do long distance for X months and then one of us moves." Open-ended long distance is what kills it.