I understand, that phenomena happens all too often, real estate prices go up, people take out equity, move "somewhere nicer" and rent the old place to pay for the mortgage on new one.

That said, have you considered renting yours out and checking places closer to your friends? You could do a six month lease, get a feel for it, if you don't like it, try a new place. I'm doing that right now. I don't know where I want to live, so I'm looking for 6mo leases to try out he various places. And yes, I too am very depressed, that is why I'm limiting myself to 6mo leases. I've made some very stupid Real Estate moves under the influence of depression and alcohol.

Good luck!