Top 5 Considerations Before Moving to a New State

Moving to a new state offers opportunities for change and growth but also requires careful consideration of how life may differ from your current location—research employment, finances, lifestyle factors, and more before making a life-changing decision. Going in unthinkingly can lead to challenges that leave you longing for home. 

These top five considerations will help you when it comes to moving to a new state.

Cost of Living

The cost of living is one of the most significant considerations when moving to a new state. Research the overall cost of living and specific costs like housing, utilities, groceries, and healthcare. Ensure you understand state and local income, sales, and property taxes in your potential new location. 

While some states may appear attractive for their lack of state income tax, other living costs, like housing, may be disproportionately higher. Compare your current budget and expenses to the projected costs in your new state. Make sure you can afford the move and will maintain a similar or improved standard of living. If costs seem higher, look for ways to earn additional income or reduce expenses before moving.

Employment Opportunities

Look into your new state’s employment prospects and overall job market, especially in your industry. Some states have a much stronger economy and job market than others. Look for trends in job growth and declining industries as well. Make professional connections in your new state and tap into local networking opportunities before moving. New York City has a wealth of job opportunities in finance, but smaller cities or rural areas will likely have less job diversity overall.

Moving to a new state with a job lined up or professional connections can be financially manageable. Do whatever you can to ensure employment before moving for income stability and career opportunities. If relocating for a current job, make sure the offer adequately compensates for significant costs of living differences and provides relocation assistance to help you make a smooth transition to your new state.

Quality of Life

Consider the quality of life factors like lifestyle preferences, values, climate, recreation, and safety. Your new state may differ substantially from your current location on these factors. For example, someone moving from California to a rural Midwestern location would likely experience quite a climate shock and more limited options for cultural experiences. Ensure the state aligns with priorities such as political values, outdoor activities, arts and entertainment availability, diversity, walkability, or community involvement. Choosing a state that matches your desired lifestyle as much as possible will help you thrive in your new home. 

Select appropriate cities, towns, or neighborhoods within the state to find like-minded communities. Research statistics on crime rates, air and water quality, traffic, and other factors contributing to overall quality of life. Some states score much higher on quality of life indexes due to strong healthcare, environmental quality, education, and public resources. Unless job prospects trump all else, prioritize the quality of life in determining your next location.

Education

If you have children, research the education system in your new state, including public school rankings, teacher-to-student ratios, and graduation rates. Some states have much higher education standards and funding than others which can directly impact your child’s learning and opportunities. Look into specific school districts and options like charter or private schools in areas you’re interested in.

Compare college and university choices in your new state to ensure prospective schools meet your needs or your child’s interests for continuing education. Out-of-state tuition, tuition rates, and financial aid packages vary between locations. 

Understand teacher licensing or certification requirements if you or your spouse works in education. Credits or degrees may or may not transfer between states, so research reciprocity agreements and compare education programs. The quality of local education should weigh heavily in your choice of new state if you have school-age children or work in the education field.

Auto Transport Service

If driving to your new state is not possible or ideal, you’ll need to make arrangements for shipping your vehicle. Research reliable car shipping companies that can transport your vehicle safely and on schedule. Compare quotes from multiple companies and check references and reviews from previous customers. Ensure the company is properly licensed and insured to ship vehicles between states. 

Clean, declutter, and prepare your vehicle before the scheduled pick-up date. Car shipping companies may assess any pre-existing damage to safeguard against undocumented damages during transport. This process takes one more task off your lengthy to-do list, allowing you to focus on other important move details.

Conclusion

While moving to a new state brings opportunities, doing ample research on employment, finances, lifestyle, and education helps ensure the challenges don’t outweigh the rewards. Connecting with locals, visiting your prospective new home, and understanding important differences in critical factors make for an informed choice and smooth transition. 

With the right preparation and partnering with reputable services like professional movers and car shipping companies, moving out of state can be navigated confidently, allowing you to embrace new adventures in your ideal place to call home.