Do I stand a chance of landing a job as an administrative assistant if I live 4-hours away from the city?

I would apply from home. It is not necessary to live in the city you plan to work to. You could say you would move there if you receive the position. I've applied to jobs in other cities - Pittsburgh, Fond du Lac, Evanston, Orlando, all while living in NW Indiana. Granted I am an architect and for some professions igger companies will pay to relocate you. Your being out of college that probably won't happen especially since there are tons of people that will do anything for work right now. In this economy it is not worth moving somewhere unless you have a means to pay for it, I feel. Your current plan of moving there the second oyu get a job is the right one that the one your potential employer will want to hear. Good luck to you - and you won't be stuck there forever.

Interesting Situation. I would say, your chances depend on the company you are applying for. If you apply from home: Most big companies usually pay for the cost to get to the interview and provide relocation assistance - if they really want the person. If they find the distance is too far to invite you, they might suggest a phone interview at first and if you pass that round, invite you. Small companies might use it as a reason to take you out of the application process, but you could mention in your cover letter that you are willing to relocate at your own expenses. If you move before having a job: Job applications (even if there are many jobs around) can take weeks or even month and you need a plan how to finance your stay during that time. Make a financial plan. How much money do you have and how much do you need to live (for about 3 month without income - as conservative estimate). There are always low paying jobs that you can take temporarily to finance your living while writing resumes. Check out if there are temp agencies in that city which is always a great way to find a job quick and it get's you a foot into the door of some interesting companies. Check Craigslist for the city and see if there is maybe a "house sitting" job available which would help with the rent expenses for some time. Craigslist also is a good source for rooms to rent (but be vary of the crooks! and check if there are other online sites for resources. Good luck!

That's why people end up waitressing. Then you could live here and look at the same time. Nobody looks down on waitresses - they work hard at an honest living. Chicago isn't that way, we're a blue-collar kinda town.