Leaving the sell side to a Hedge fund

Hi guys,

I am currently working as a quant in the sell-side. My position is well established in this place and I have been there there for a while now but i am getting less excited with what i do. I see myself getting less motivated and more frustrated. I can honestly say my position is safe and i could probably stay here for another decade but probably wont be paid much more.

However, i have a new opportunity to join a pod in a hedge fund (pretty well established i would say). I know i am liked and really wanted

I was hoping to get your opinions and see what you think
I come from the middle of nowhere in the US where what i make now would blow the minds of people there.
Does it really make sense to leave a safe place and take a risk such as moving to a hedge fund?
Does it really make sense to risk my career for what could turn out to be short term gains?
The sell-side is shrinking so it would probably be tougher to get back into the sell-side?
Would i be condemning myself to what could turn out to be endless job hoping?

I have savings and while i take care of family i dont have dependents

I have weighed pros and cons and yet still cant seem to come to a decision

I'm interested in hearing what you guys think?

Thanks