It is certainly correct to say that the Gemara encourages living in Eretz Yisrael. And it is also correct to say that according to one's circumstances and resources, one should do so. (See the Pischei Teshuvah, Even ha'Ezer 75:6, who quotes the Teshuvos Me'il Tzedakah, who cites early authorities who emphasize that one should not move to Eretz Yisrael unless he or she will have sufficient means of livelihood there.)

As far as being obligated to do so is concerned, Rav Moshe Feinstein rules that although someone who lives in Eretz Yisrael performs a Mitzvah (indeed, with every four Amos that he walks, as the Gemara states), one is not obligated to move there if he is not already living there. His ruling is based on the Rambam, who forbids leaving Eretz Yisrael, but who does not mention any obligation to move there.

Concerning making Aliyah against one's spouse's wishes, the Halachah, as the Gemara states it, certainly permits this, and even penalizes the spouse who refuses to conform (with regard to the woman losing her Kesuvah if she does not want to go, or the man having to pay it if he does not want to go). Practically speaking, however, the Rema (Even ha'Ezer 1) says that nowadays the courts do not force such matters. Therefore, one would be well-advised to discuss one's personal case with a competent Rabbinical authority before making any decisions.

Rabbi Eliezser Chrysler