Is it Worth it to Move for Your Job?

For many Americans, our jobs are our lives, and it's only logical that we are willing to make sacrifices. We work long hours, we forgo lunch breaks, and we even uproot our lives to follow opportunity. For those of us wanting and willing to move to a different city (or country) for our jobs, it's important to consider some questions before making the choice.

1. What will it actually cost me?

Knowing that you will have a higher salary in a job outside of your current city is not enough to guarantee a better quality of life. Your adjusted cost of living will have to take into account items like your salary, moving costs, and city-specific costs. Before accepting a position, always be sure to check rents in that area to make sure you will be able to cover your new expenses. For help calculating the cost of moving to another city, you can calculate it here.

2. Have I dealt with what I'm leaving behind?

We all have family, and have to remember that any major life choice we make will ultimately impact them. But where does one draw the line between following personal dreams and staying behind with family? Talk to your family about this decision, and make sure they understand why you will be going through with it. If they're down to join you, all the merrier. But if not, remember, you can always take time off to go and see them!

3. Can I find a new home near my job?

Commute time is a huge determinant of job satisfaction, so it's important that you are able to find a new home near your job. Start your research now and don't get shut out of prime renting opportunities. Here are some tips from Sparefoot about apartment-hunting.

4. Do I see long-term opportunity for growth?

Moving for a job is almost like moving for a significant other. While of course, it won't always work out, you want to minimize that chance. Make sure that you know exactly what you're getting yourself into. Ask as many questions to your employer as will make you comfortable to know you're about to embark on a long-term change for the better. Make sure that you know everything you can about the company so that you can avoid surprises during your first month on the job. Your new employer should understand that this is a big decision and be open to transparent conversation.

5. Have I weighed the pros and cons?

The decision to move for a job is personal, and there's no general checklist we can give you. However, you need to consider what's important for you in a new city. Is an urban landscape more important to you then accessible nature? Are you willing to raise your family in this new city if you end up keeping this job? Can you make friends here? Make a list of things that are important to you and do your research on this new city. For starters, here are some really smart ways to meet new friends in a new city.

Moving for your job can be a difficult choice, but it can also be extremely fruitful. Think carefully before embarking on this new adventure!

For more information about moving for a job, click here!

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