When I moved 3 years ago I picked a place that was within walking distance of free transportation to my place of business.
Expect this trend to increase with gas prices (and jingle mail).
The real problem, however, is its not just a transportation issue. Oil is used in shipping, industry, farming, manufacture, etc. So even jerks like me that don’t drive every day end up paying for it one way or another.
I agree with kewp – homes close to employment centers will continue to become more and more valuable as energy costs rise. Whether it is oil or some other energy source, energy can’t help but become more and more expensive as time passes.
That is one of the primary reasons we decided not to buy or even look much in Fallbrook, Ramona or Temecula. Too far from our employment – and most potential future buyer’s employment – which would increase commute time/costs and decrease our future resale value.
Which energy source we use is something for the various technologies to duke out. Where you choose to live in order to be best prepared for future increases in energy costs is more a choice you can make.
One thing that may offset this somewhat but not completely: the increased use of telecommuting.
