In order to make a solid choice of where to move, you should consider a few factors and really get some data behind your analysis before making any changes. So what are some questions you should ask yourself before moving? Here are a few you want to research answers for and have details that will help guide any decision.
1. What’s the cost of living?
The cost of living is a measurement used to calculate how much it costs to live in a particular area. Before moving to a new place, make sure to check how much it costs in that city. You can use a CPI calculator from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to help you stay on track. But understanding this data can ensure you can obtain your financial goals and not be stuck living paycheck to paycheck to get by.
2. Do you have a job opportunity?
Make sure that your new salary will be adequate for the new cost of living; $70k per year is enough income for some cities, but not enough in a city like New York, for example. If you don’t have a job opportunity, make sure you’re going somewhere where you could find a job easily or that there is opportunity in your career path.
3. Do you have an overall plan?
If you’re moving somewhere long term, do your research and learn about the city’s school, crime rates, housing costs, and tax system. Get some things done in advance so the entire move isn’t so stressful. Many times when you are ready for a fresh start, you have this idea in your head of certain locations without really getting to know the area. Moving on that “hunch” or impulse is certainly not the best idea.
4. Can you afford it?
The overall process of moving can be quite expensive. You need to pack up your things, hire or rent a moving truck, other travel expenses, and will have to pay for a deposit if you are renting a new place. Make sure you have enough in your savings to pay for the move so it’s not as stressful.
5. Do you know anyone in the new city?
It really helps to have a couple of friends or acquaintances in the city you are moving to. It does take time to settle down, create a new group of friends and feel at home again, and having a couple of friends can speed up the process. They can also give you advice on where the best neighborhood to live in is, what are some good places to eat out or even nice hikes.
6. How much does it cost to register my car?
It’s a pain to register your vehicle, but the sooner you get started the better. Look up the information you need to transfer your registration details over and update your tags as soon as possible. Then you can rest assured you’ll never get pulled over for having out-of-state tags that aren’t up to date. Make sure you have enough to cover the cost.
7. How long do you want to stay there?
It helps to have an idea of how long you want to stay in your new city. Are you just going there for a couple of months to try it out? Or are looking for something more long term? Would you raise your grandchildren here?
8. What do I gain by leaving?
Before you start packing up, think about the place you currently live. What are you gaining by leaving? What will you learn and acquire in the new city? These kinds of questions can get you motivated and keep you inspired. Start thinking about the kinds of people you’ll meet, where you’ll be going and what you’ll be seeing. Again, it’ll help you get excited.
9. What is here that I’m going to need out there?
It’s likely you are used to a few services that you go to regularly in your current city. This could be your nail salon, your favorite pizza joint or a barber shop. You won’t find your favorite hangout places in the new city, so it’s worth thinking about what you want to find once you get there. It is true that it’s exciting to discover new places, and you’ll soon discover that every city has a special hangout place worth going to.
10. What is my goal for moving out there?
Once again, this question can help you give a sense of direction, instead of impending doom. Ask yourself what your short and long term goals are. Your goals can change over time, but having some in mind will help you make sense of what you’re doing. When you arrive in your city, what are some of the things you want to accomplish?