If you’re looking for a fresh start, one of the most freeing things you can do is move to a new location. About 10% of people in the United States do it every year!
But with so many beautiful, exciting places around the country, it can be tough to decide where to go. If you find yourself asking, where should I move? We’re here to help.
Listed below are 4 factors to take into consideration before you begin packing your bags.
Let’s get started!
- Can You Afford It?
The first thing to consider in any move is your budget. When choosing a new place to live, one of the biggest deciding factors is going to be cost of living. Different areas of the country vary wildly in terms of how much it costs to rent or buy a home.
New York City, for example, has one of the highest costs of living in the country. Unless you’re moving there from another expensive location, such as Los Angeles, you might find it borderline impossible to live in the heart of the city.
- Where Will You Work?
If you have the luxury of working from home, you can skip this one. But for many people, the ability to work in a chosen location can make or break their decision to move there.
It’s a good idea to have a new job lined up before you make your move. It will likely even be required by a rental or mortgage company. This is why it’s important to look for a place that has job availability in your field of work.
- What’s the Weather Like?
This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, but the weather should absolutely be taken into account when asking yourself, “what state should I move to?”
Is the weather in your current location mild or extreme? Do you enjoy the thought of a temperate climate, or would you prefer four distinct seasons?
If the idea of scraping ice from your windshield before work every morning isn’t appealing to you, don’t move anywhere with a harsh winter. Alternatively, if you can’t stand the idea of 365 days of warm weather, you should probably avoid tropical locations.
- Is the Area Safe?
Even if you find what appears to be the perfect home for sale online, you need to check the crime statistics of the surrounding area. It’s difficult to get a feel for a neighborhood or town through the internet.
Try to visit the locations you’re considering before you pick one. If you can’t, there are a variety of tools available online that can help you determine if an area on your list is safe or if you should look elsewhere.
Stop Asking Where Should I Move and Start Packing Today!
Taking the time to answer the question, “where should I move?” by considering these factors is important. You want to give yourself and your family the best chance at happiness in your new home!
That said, at some point, you just have to start packing your bags and hope for the best. Once you’ve done your research and discussed the possibilities with your loved ones, it’s time to go!
For more tips on creating your ideal life, be sure to take a look at our blog!
Important factors to take into consideration before you begin packing your bags.