Don’t be afraid of $3k in debt that’s very attainable to pay down with some discipline. There are many that have much more, but it all starts the same. When I first moved out I built up credit by taking a few loans; furniture, tires, etc..I was actually right around where you are.

At the time I made $14/hr, and each paycheck was barely $1000. I managed to save $200/mo and chipped away. It was motivating to get down to $2000, then $1000, going through that helped me realize how quickly things can get out of hand. It was a life lesson learned early.

I personally would not move, and either pay back the bonus, or sort out the commute if possible. But, if you’re stuck and unable to pay it back you’re kind of in a tough spot if you want to quit.

A lot of companies are doing this, shocking, but they also are working with people. Could you ask if you could come in 2-3 days / week until you found housing? If you like your job, and it’s just an issue of distance I feel like there’s a pretty easy path forward if they will work with you on moving closer in.