Would you quit your job if you're absolutely miserable, while also knowing there are no other jobs available?

It really isn't, but I wish it was.

it IS better to look for a new job when you have a job instead of being unemployed. think of it from the potential employers point of view. would you rather hire someone who is working or someone who can't hold onto a job? you are a much better option for the new company when you are working.

@testbutton: A fair point, but that scenario can't exist if a job opportunity doesn't exist. There's no spots open in any area where I live.

@maybesomeday: but you still have a lot of options:
- keep looking, maybe nothing today but maybe something tomorrow
- look in other areas
- look at other types of work. no matter what you do, you probably have skills that can be used in different areas of work.