Depends on what your goal is. Consumer VPNs have been used for an assortment of reasons. Some of these you would need a VPN server that is close-by, while others should be far away:
0) Remote access to small business office
1) Connect to home router to access home network
2) To avoid ISP throttling of YouTube, etc
3) Download torrents, usenet
4) Commit crimes (routed through unallied nations)
5) To watch Netflix or Hulu from Europe
...
0) Remote access to small business office 1) Connect to home router to access home network 2) To avoid ISP throttling of YouTube, etc 3) Download torrents, usenet 4) Commit crimes (routed through unallied nations) 5) To watch Netflix or Hulu from Europe ...