The Golden Bachelorette: After Doing My Own Research On Wichita & NYC, I'm Convinced Joan Vassos & Chock Chapple Would Have A Much Happier Life In Wichita

The Golden Bachelorette's Joan Vassos and Chock Chapple continue to live a jet-setting life together in the four months since their finale aired, but they still haven't committed to finding a place to live together. Joan and Chock first met after appearing on The Golden Bachelorette season 1, where they became engaged. They were the first couple on the inaugural Golden Bachelorette, and they've been an inspiration to people of all ages that it's never too late to find your person.

One of the biggest stumbling blocks for Joan and Chock has been where to settle. Joan originally hails from Maryland, while Chock has roots in Wichita, and they've expressed interest in moving to New York City. They've been flying around the world vacationing together, taking care of work commitments, and getting themselves integrated into one another's lives, but eventually, they'll need to take the leap and move in together. I've been doing some research, and the more I think about it, the more I think Joan and Chock should embrace the slow life and settle in Wichita.

Joan & Chock Can Buy A New House In Wichita At An Affordable Price

The Cost Of Living In Wichita Is Lower

Everyone knows a big city like NYC will be way more expensive than other parts of the country. According to U.S. News & World Report, NYC ranks #5 on the list of most expensive cities in the U.S. The real estate and cost of living in New York are astronomical, and even though Joan and Chock both do well for themselves (and have further monetized their brands since becoming public figures), the cost of living in NYC is still a barrier they need to consider.

According to Realtor.com, if Joan and Chock wanted to buy a new home together in Wichita, they could find a spacious place easily for under $400,000. Chock already has a gorgeous Wichita home, but if he and Joan decide they want to buy something together for a fresh start, Wichita would be more realistic. Of course, it would be a big sacrifice for Joan, who has an established life on the East Coast.

NYC Might Be Too Over-Priced For Joan & Chock's Liking

Joan & Chock Might Want A More Peaceful Life Outside The City

A quick search on Zillow proves buying a place in NYC would cost five times what a place in Wichita would, and it would likely be half the size. It's unusual to buy a home in NYC, so they'd most likely be looking for an apartment, which is a completely different way of life than what they're accustomed to. Big-city living has its advantages, but it also has its drawbacks, like less space, more noise, more pollution, etc.

If Joan and Chock want to bite the bullet and get a place in NYC, they could start their lives together in a fresh spot, which can be beneficial for couples, rather than moving into someone's already existing home in their city. But I'm not convinced Chock will want to give up his Wichita life for the big-city lifestyle. Chock is Wichita-born and raised, and he has an established business there. It would be a huge undertaking for them to start over in New York.

I Think Joan & Chock Would Be Happier In Wichita...Or Even Maryland?

Why Don't They Ever Consider Joan's Hometown?

From the moment Joan chose Chock, they've been open about their excitement for their futures, but they've also acknowledged their struggles, like deciding where to settle. They've always named NYC as a dream location, but Chock's attachment to Wichita is also a factor. There hasn't been much talk about setting in Joan's hometown of Rockville, Maryland, which is close to Washington, D.C. Maybe Joan doesn't have as many roots in Maryland as Chock has in Wichita?

I'm not sure NYC is the right place for Chock and Joan. Especially at their ages, the big city might be too much for them. They should embrace a slower lifestyle in the Midwest and start their lives together in Wichita. Joan has already met many of Chock's friends, and he's been busy giving her the Wichita experience each time she visits. I can't help but think Wichita seems like a more appropriate place for Joan and Chock to live out their golden years, and we love that for them.