Relocating is a daunting concept, particularly once you are up against a deadline, such as joining a new workplace; it is much more stressful. In such scenarios, many pursuits necessitate rapid or second-guessing decisions. But when it comes to moving to a new city, none would ever want to rush to your choice of where to live. Whether you are a location independent professional seeking the greatest areas to live and are working remotely or simply searching for a job within a commuting distance to your house, this crucial decision will shape the rest of your life.
Things to consider when finding a new resident city:
Certainly, there are numerous factors to consider, and they differ at a personal level, but some general things that should be considered while finding a new resident city to move in:
1) Prospects for Employment:
Before moving to a new city, think about your work possibilities and income potential. Some questions that you must find the answer to are:
- What is the state of the job market?
- Are there a lot of employment openings? If not, how do you intend to support yourself?
- What is the median household income?
- What is the average per capita income?
For many people, finding a new career first draws them to move to a new city. Others are attracted to career opportunities. Therefore, we recommend conducting comprehensive research of the organizations in that area that provide opportunities in your profession when determining job chances in a new place.
2) Living Costs:
The living cost in that particular city is critical when finding a new resident town. Remember everything ranging from the real estate pricing and transportation to the dining out and groceries’ average cost should be included in the living cost. The greater the living expense in the new city is, the more money you will need to live a life of comfort.
3) The Real Estate Market:
Before purchasing or renting a property in a new place, ensure to have asked yourself all the following questions:
- Is the housing market stable in the new city?
- Is it back on its feet after the Great Recession?
- What is the average cost of a home?
- Are you able to afford a property in a secure neighborhood?
- Are there a lot of renting options? Is now a good time to invest?
We recommend speaking with an experienced and reputable Realtor in the region you plan to move to. This way, you’ll get an idea of where the local market stands.
4) Demographics:
Before moving to a new city, find out the answers to the following questions:
- What is the average age of the locals?
- Is there a sizable population of residents in your age bracket?
- Is the city densely populated with families? Or do we have more singles?
These things matter because If you are single in your 20s, for instance, then you would think twice about moving to a new city where families and married couples are the majority. Whereas, if you are married and have children, you generally would not prefer living in a place dominated by students or singles.
Hence, finding more about the demographics will help you make the right decision when finding a new resident city.
5) Social networks:
It’s never a terrible idea to move somewhere with connections, whether social or professional. Moreover many prefer living close to their family and friends, if that’s the case with you then consider cities and surrounding areas where your loved ones live. However, if you don’t want to meet your friends and family, start over in a new place with more career opportunities. Make new friends, and expand your social circle because, after all, you need a company to sit within your leisure time. Moreover, it’s good for your health.
6) Education:
If you have school-aged kids, you must look into educational opportunities before moving to a new city. And for that, touring multiple schools to gain a sense of their environment and programs is always beneficial. Besides, we would also recommend researching local museums and other family-friendly educational places in the city.
7) Rates of crime:
Unfortunately, crime is inevitable in cities. There will almost certainly be some level of crime no matter which area you decide to go to. Hence, we recommend researching crime rates when moving to a new city. In addition, also consider whether the most common types of crime are property or violent crimes. The most serious types of crime are violent crimes, which frequently entail murder, assault, and rape. At the same time, vehicle theft and burglary come under the category of less risky offenses.
8) Weather:
Not everybody can withstand extreme weather, whether it’s cold or hot. On the other hand, not everyone enjoys sunshine all year. Therefore, before moving to a new city, be careful to research normal temperatures, precipitation rates, and climates. In addition, also check the pollution percentage and the air quality of the place. However, if your health requires you to reside in a specific climate, we recommend limiting your search to finding a new resident city that meets your weather-related requirements.
9) Travel Time & Public Transportation Alternatives:
Moving to a new city can turn into a nightmare if you don’t consider the travel time and look out for alternatives for traveling from one place to another. Such as seeing if your office and home have an acceptable distance or if you have train stations nearby to catch a ride to your office. Ensure that you have researched all the possibilities because, despite the new “work from home” system, rapid exurban and suburban growth has continued to lengthen typical traffic time and commute times.
These issues are particularly acute in high-cost coastal areas such as New York City and San Francisco. High property prices in the city and neighboring suburbs force throngs of “extreme commuters” as it takes more than an hour to travel, both the ways, compared to affordable houses and downtown businesses in these locations.
However, in big metro regions with adequate public transit choices for commuters, longer trips are not that unpleasant and are potentially less expensive, if not less time demanding. Therefore, if working from home is not your thing and you don’t want to commute to work daily, then be sure the neighborhoods or suburbs you are considering have reliable public transportation.
