Moving down-market for work life balance / quality of life upgrade?

While everyone would prefer to work-less hours all else equal for similar money, how many of you have truly made a jump downmarket to a less competitive role (likely for less money)? Either from IB to corporate banking, or corporate banking to commercial banking? If so, at what cost? Any regrets? Do you miss doing the more complex transactions?

Context: I am currently in a tier 2 city in a solid corporate banking vertical on the PM / underwriting side (VP level). Hours aren't horrible but still typically ~50+ with pretty fast paced unforgiving environment since we run quite lean. I've learned a lot and exceled in the group, but not sure if this is what I imagine for the rest of career. Considering options closer to my hometown in a tier 3 city on the commercial side. Obviously would lose out a bit on the compensation upside but be in a true 40 hour a week job that may feel more rewarding. Pay is still $150k+ at this level so it’s still a comfortable life style if you aren’t living over the top.

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