Moving to a new state? Exciting times are ahead! But before you leap into this fresh chapter, there’s a “tiny” hurdle to clear: the actual move. Sure, it can seem daunting, but with a solid strategy, it’s nothing you can’t handle. Whether debuting your big decision or just needing a dust-off on the basics, these tips for moving out of state will help you secure a hiccup-free relocation.
Finding the perfect home in your new state
If your company orchestrates your move, they’ll likely handle the nitty gritty. But if this leap is your personal decision, it becomes more crucial to check out the following:
Cost of Living
Research the general cost of living. Online calculators are helpful for ballpark figures, but local intel is invaluable. Join social media groups or forums to get the lowdown, from real estate prices and income taxes to everyday expenses, utility fluctuations, and parking fees.
Housing Options
Searching for a suitable home in your new state can take a lot of work. You have to make sure that the online pics of homes you’ve googled match reality. So, one handy tip for moving out of state is to physically explore neighborhoods. Consider the vibe, the community, and the practicalities. You may also want to enlist a reputable realtor, attend local events, or join social media groups for insights.
Employment Opportunities
Network before you relocate. LinkedIn, local professional groups, and other forums can provide insights beyond the job boards. You’ll also want to scrutinize your industry’s presence in the area. Also, consider local economic health. Are businesses opening (any ongoing construction) or closing (empty storefronts)?
Healthcare
Quality and accessibility of medical services are non-negotiable, especially if you have specific healthcare needs. Check out local hospitals, clinics, and specialists in the area. Look up the insurance landscape, too, as coverage options and healthcare costs can vary significantly from state to state.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Gym rat, art enthusiast, foodie, or outdoor adventurer? Reflect on what’s essential for your lifestyle. Proximity to outdoor activities, arts and culture, education, healthcare, and nightlife can massively impact your happiness meter.
Safety and Education
Utilize online crime maps and statistics, but also seek out local community social media groups for residents’ experiences and perceptions. If you’re moving with family, school district quality can be a deal-maker or breaker. Tour schools if you can, meet with administrators, or connect with parents in the area.
Climate
Climate can affect your mood, wardrobe, utility costs, and even your car’s needs. So determine how extreme weather or regular occurrences of natural events like hurricanes, tornadoes, or heavy snowfall might impact your lifestyle or job.
How do I plan and execute a successful out-of-state move?
So, where does one start?
Dig into these beneficial tips for moving out of state for the first time.
Begin Early
How much time you’ll need to prepare for a smooth transition from one state to another depends on several factors. But regardless, start preparing three to six months early. Create a comprehensive moving checklist with timelines to keep track of tasks and set up reminders.
Budget Like a Pro
Moving to another state can be pricey, whether it’s a corporate relocation or a wanderlust-spurred decision. Thus, you must outline all potential expenses, including moving company fees, travel costs, storage, and immediate living expenses.
Hire a Reputable Moving Company
One critical tip for moving out of state is finding a licensed, insured, and well-reviewed moving company. Obtain quotes from multiple movers and clarify all terms before signing a contract. Don’t forget to check out your insurance options.
Sort, Sell, Donate
Now’s the time for a decisive clutter detox. Sift through your belongings and decide what makes the cut for your new home. Sell or donate things you no longer need. Be merciless—if you’ve forgotten an item’s existence until now, chances are you won’t miss it when you move to another state.
Notify and Update
Make sure to inform all the ‘VIPs’ in your life about your major move. We’re talking about your employers, schools, healthcare providers, banks, and utility providers. Don’t forget to update your address for postal services—yes, even in our digital age—and on all official documents. Keep all relevant parties in the loop, right down to your Great Aunt Edith, to prevent future headaches like missed bills, lost correspondence, and wayward online orders.
How to minimize the stress of long-distance relocation
Feel like you’ve already aced our tips for moving out of state for the first time? Then check out these next-level nuggets to make you a maestro of the move.
Stay Organized
Keep all moving-related information in one place, be it in a binder or a digital spreadsheet. Use color-coded labels for boxes for easy identification. You can also set reminders on your phone for crucial deadlines, like canceling utilities or booking movers.
Build a Moving Essentials Kit
Throw in a few days’ worth of clothing and essential toiletries in case you can’t unpack everything immediately. Add a first-aid kit, non-perishable snacks, bottled water, and disposable utensils. And if you’re a pet parent, remember your furry companion’s essentials, such as their fave squeaky toy.
Care for Yourself
Another vital tip for moving out for the first time is to keep self-care in the front seat. Plan your meals, perhaps by prepping and freezing them, to ensure you don’t live off takeout for days. Carve out “me” time in the mayhem; a brisk walk around the corner or a quick catch-up session with a friend can work wonders for your mental health. When the stress peaks, turn to relaxation apps or your favorite calming tunes to find your zen.
Stay Positive
Another essential tip for moving out of state is retaining a positive mindset. You can start an interactive map marking off must-visit eateries, hidden gems, and local arts and events in your new area. You can also throw a countdown to a housewarming party to spread the joy!
Seamless Transitions with Anyplace
You’ve decided on the where and the when, but what about the how? That’s where Anyplace comes in. We can help transform the daunting task of finding temporary housing in a new state into a breezy affair.
Anyplace simplifies your out-of-state move by offering a selection of fully furnished apartments. Each one is ready to become your next home for however long you need, whether 30, 63, or 93 days—with no leases and no strings attached.
Simply arrive and we’ll handle everything else. A fresh start, a dynamic career shift, or an exhilarating adventure—whatever it is—Anyplace is your key to an effortless transition.
Where to next? Find monthly rentals designed for remote workers on Anyplace.
