Deciding If You Should Move Across the Country for a Job in 2019
Not only do you need to consider important factors like happiness and lifestyle, but there are some very important logistical considerations as well. Today, we're here to talk about some of the more practical aspects of deciding whether a relocation is right for you.
The Climate
An important part in the decision of a cross country move is knowing if you will be happy in the new place. You may love the culture, shorten your commute, or move closer to family. But nothing can change your mind about the weather. Some people can't stand the heat, some can't stand the cold. Some get depressed under cloudy skies, some sneeze their heads off in the spring.
Know your climate preferences and think carefully about where you plan to move. You're more likely to be happy in a climate you have enjoyed in the past and trends toward your ideal temperature window.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in a city is a very serious moving consideration. Some cities are much more affordable or expensive to live in than others which will influence just how far your paycheck can go. A raise to live in a high-cost city isn't as much of a raise as it seems, while the same pay in a lower cost city can feel much more like a raise because you can do more with the money.
Know how the cost of living in your destination city compares with where you live now. If you live in a metropolitan area now and can walk to work, but are moving to a suburb or rural area, you may have to buy an automobile. This expense definitely needs to be factored into the decision. In addition, make sure you take into consideration, for calculations, housing, utilities, and food costs. Only then can you know if the move is worth the money.
Work-Life Balance and Commute
Next is to gauge how satisfied you will be with your lifestyle in the new city. While you can make new friends at your destination, you'll have to work around the work-life balance of the job itself. Everyone has their own needs when it comes to work-life balance. Parents usually want to get home quickly with guaranteed freedom not to work weekends. Others may enjoy the occasional late night and last-minute weekend project capped by late drinks with coworkers. But the wrong balance can result in unhappiness after the move.
The commute matters as well. Make sure your new commute will be short enough that you have time to enjoy any new lifestyle perks that come with the move.
Relocation Package Terms
Always take a very close look at your relocation package, if you are being offered one. Many companies make a new position more tempting by offering relocation funds to help you make the move. However, not all relocation packages are the same. Some have an expectation of repayment, some only need to be repaid if you leave the position before a specified number of years after the move. Some have no repayment clause.
There are also likely to be other terms. How moving costs should be paid or expensed, what is and is not covered should all be weighed so you can determine the total investment you are making and opportunities available. Don't forget to check for special offers in the package like a discount on local storage or a temporary housing allowance that can help you along the way.
Lifestyle Changes
Finally, remember that lifestyle can change significantly with a change in location. There are certain things about your life that are easier because of the region. Maybe it's warm enough to swim outdoors most of the year, or you live near some great running trails. And perhaps you can find a new place that is even more supportive of your ideal lifestyle.
The point is to make your decision carefully. Don't give up an essential part of your life and do look for opportunities to improve your lifestyle with a new living situation.
Should You Relocate for a Job?
Every move is a unique choice. Moving for this new job could be a fantastic improvement to your life or you could find yourself missing home. They key is to weigh the pros and cons of going versus staying and make the decision that's best for you.
If you're ready to make the move, it's time to start planning your relocation. For moving tips and professional long-distance moving services, contact A-1 Freeman Moving Group today!
Request a free quote