Top 5 Things You Should Consider Before Moving

Moving is difficult, and there are certainly different degrees to it. A short move across town is a lot easier and less expensive than moving an entire household across the country. 

There is a lot to consider when planning a move, everything from the cost of living in your new location to where you will work, is the move right for your entire family and can you afford to move. Let’s have a quick look at a few things you should think about when considering a move.

Is the cost of living affordable?

Your finances are important in every move, regardless of the distance. While money may not be as much concern when moving a short distance, with a longer move there is a lot more to consider. A short move to a different location in the same area will usually be straightforward, you probably only need to worry about the cost of a moving truck and movers as well as some boxes. 

However, if you are moving to an entirely different city or across the country, you will need to consider the cost of living in your new location.

In most circumstances, the area you’re moving to will have a different cost of living than your current area. 

It’s vital to understand the cost of living in your new hometown before moving. We recommend checking out Bestplaces.net which is a great place to compare the cost of living between different areas and cities. The location you’re interested in may cost more for expenses such as housing, healthcare, and utilities which makes it very important that you understand the costs of where you are moving. The top expenses that are sometimes over looked is the cost of property tax, homeowners insurance and HOA fees. These home purchase expenses greatly vary depending on where you live.

The cost of these necessities could even change whether you’ll be renting or getting a mortgage to buy a home, so it is important to do your research and have a solid understanding of what it costs to live in your new location. It’s best to know these numbers and be confident you can afford your new location before taking concrete steps toward a move. 

Can you find work?

If you’re not moving for a specific job, you should look ahead for job opportunities in your new area. If you’re an essential worker, such as a  teacher, healthcare worker, or other always in demand worker, you will likely be able to find work just about everywhere. 

However, if you work in a lesser-known field, it’s a good idea to search out opportunities before the move. Check local job opportunities to make sure you will be able to find employment in the area you are moving to because you want to ensure you can actually make a living in your new city 

If you’re working remotely, there’s much less to worry about when moving. However, you might still face a change in pay if your employer bases their salaries or hourly wages upon the cost of living in your area. It is always a good idea to talk to your employer before moving about the possibility of your income changing based on your move.

Will you love the weather?

Geography will have a large impact on your move. You want to make sure you are comfortable and love the climate of your new hometown. Where you live can have a major influence on your overall happiness so be sure you are in sync with the weather in your new location.

If you don’t enjoy long winters with lots of snow or have never lived through one, consider how you will deal with the new weather, or if you even want to deal with it. Similarly, if you live somewhere near the ocean or a place with mountains, you’ll have to adapt to a new place without them. Carefully consider if you will enjoy the new weather and geography when you move and if the answer is anything other than yes, you may want to reconsider.

Is the rest of your family excited?

If you live with others that are coming on the move with you, you’ll have to consider how is this change going to affect them. Will your spouse be able to find a job, are there excellent schools and enough after school activities for your kids? 

Check the new location for job opportunities for your spouse or working children. Carefully consider the schools in the area if you have kids. Safely is also an important factor. Everyone should feel secure in their new home. Check out crime rates as well as severe weather statistics where you’re moving. 

Can you actually afford to move?

Finally, there’s no point in looking into future costs at your new location if you can’t afford the move itself. It is certainly possible to move cheaply, but moving is always easier with a moving vehicle, moving supplies, and movers helping you get to your new home. 

Ask your employer to help, if you’re relocating for a job, they may be willing to pay for some of your moving expenses. Calculate the cost of your move before making any plans, if you cannot easily afford the move, you may want to reconsider your decision.

While moving isn’t cheap or easy, it’s usually worth it. Always consider these factors above before making any a move.