With remote work all the rage, many people think they can land a job anywhere in the country. Though virtual work opportunities have certainly grown in popularity – finding a job in a different city or state isn’t all that easy. Many companies want to have employees within reach – available to come into the office on occasion and tend to local customers.
If you are interested in finding a new job, you may have to consider relocating. Here are some tips to help you plan and prepare to relocate, keeping the stress of moving to a new city or state minimal on you and your family:
Determine what your new cost of living will be.
While you may be excited to land a job at a specific salary in a new city – you may quickly find out that salary doesn’t go as far as it would elsewhere. So, to maintain your current lifestyle (or improve it), take some time to research the cost of living within various cities and states of interest, so that you are prepared to negotiate a fair wage.
Do remember to take into consideration the cost of housing and utilities, as well as food and transportation. For example, if moving to New York City, tolls and bus fares add up – costing many commuters more than $500 per month (as well as several hundred dollars in parking if you live within Manhattan). Not factoring in these expenses could be problematic, long-term.
Factor in the cost of moving – not all companies will pay you to relocate.
Though some companies may offer to pay some or all of your relocation fees, you will find that most won’t. In fact, some companies will not even consider your candidacy until you are a resident – making your need to relocate and then search key. As such, you will have to consider the costs associated with moving so that you can budget accordingly.
Here are some common expenses:
- The cost of hiring a moving company. While hiring a company for a local move could cost anywhere from $50 to $250 per hour, a move across state lines could cost more than $5,000 – depending on the size of the move and the distance. Remember to interview multiple moving companies and have a contract detailing items, services, and labor in place. Moving companies are notorious for jacking up the price before unloading your belongings – so do your due diligence beforehand.
• The cost of renting a truck to move on your own. Renting a truck to move on your own is far less expensive (at $3,000 for a long-distance move). However, there are some pros and cons. While you will save a pretty penny, labor will be a challenge. You may have the support needed to help you load the truck, but finding the support to unload in a new city may not be as easy to do. Hiring people to help could increase the price tag substantially.
• The cost of renting a self-storage unit. Storage units are located in cities and towns across the US. Many facilities offer 24-7 security, climate control, and drive-up access – making them super secure and convenient to use. Best of all, there are numerous sized units to choose from – from 5’x5’ to 10’x20’ – so you only pay for the space you need. Storage Seeker allows you to compare and reserve top-rated self-storage units for free, so finding one that works within your monthly budget is easy to do.
• The cost of moving supplies. Though some moving companies offer you the option of having them pack up your belongings (for an additional fee), most people choose to pack up themselves – paying for boxes and packing supplies (such as packing tape and bubble wrap). Boxes range from $1.50 to $3.00, or more, depending on the size. A large roll of bubble wrap can be as much as $40.00, and a large pack of tape could be upwards of $30.
• Moving Insurance: If you are moving to a new city or state, moving insurance may be in order – and can cost you several hundred dollars. Though it is a little expensive to buy, many find that the peace of mind moving insurance provides worth the price tag. This is especially true for a cross-country move. This way, you will be reimbursed for any times that are lost, stolen, or become damaged in transport.
• Additional expenses: The cost of a down payment on a new home or first month’s rent and security deposit for a new apartment – car registration fees, new furniture (if needed), or an additional mode of transportation may all be required.
While you may feel a bit overwhelmed moving to a new city, you will settle in your new home and career in no time. With a bit of research and planning, your move will be a success – personally and professionally.
