5 Steps to Moving to a New City

So you’re thinking about moving? That’s awesome! I am all for adventures and new experiences and different cultures. But moving is different than traveling. A lot more goes into the process. Moving can be very exciting and nerve wracking at the same time. I’ve lived in three major cities in Texas: Ft Worth, Austin, and Dallas. When I left for Austin, I was 19. I moved there because I wanted to get as far away from Ft Worth as I could. As a young person, full of emotions, I didn’t really think about my decision, I just packed up my things one day and left my hometown. I have struggled with my impulsivity my whole life and it has led to some regrets. So here are some steps to moving to a new city that may be able to help you with your journey.

STEP 1: DECIDE

This step may seem obvious. To decide means to come to a resolution in the mind as a result of consideration. A resolution implies that there was a problem that needed to be solved. (This of course, is not always the case.) Make a pros and cons list! This has aided me a lot in making decisions that were not simply right or wrong. If there is more benefit in moving than in staying, go for it! However, if there are more cons, perhaps you should re-evaluate moving there. Something else I’ve learned in the decision making process, is that you can’t just think about all the “new,” you have to also keep in mind the “old.” Simply ask yourself this question: Why do you want to move? Sometimes the answer is easy, like work or school or if the move is temporary. But what if it’s not so easy. My move to Austin was an easy decision but a hard move. But if I could go back and not be so rash on that decision, it probably would’ve saved me a lot of heartache and friendships. Impulsivity can be great, but it can also be blinding. What I’m trying to say is really think about what you’ll be gaining and losing if you move.

STEP 2: SCOUT IT OUT

Visit this new magical place! Scout out all the good places to eat, hike, hang out, get drinks, go shopping, etc. Once you’ve found a couple go-to places, look for a place to live that’s near them. You don’t want to be living in a neighborhood where you have to drive 15 minutes just to get yourself some late night tacos. You’ll end up spending a fortune on Favor and Uber Eats. I have found that choosing a location that’s close to your hobbies is more beneficial than finding a place close to your work (not that living close to your work is not beneficial). Your hobbies are what make you happy! If you like to rock climb, but the nearest rock climbing gym is 30 miles away, you’re less likely to go. If you have friends in this new city but you move to the other side of the metroplex, you’ll never see them. Plus, if you find an amazing new home, the commute to and from work won’t bother you as much because you’re super happy in your new place.

STEP 3: FIND A JOB

This only applies for those of you who are not moving due to work. If you do not fall under this criteria, please skip to step 4: budget.

While looking for a job, take into consideration three things.

1. Will it provide for your lifestyle?

2. Is it something you will enjoy?

3. Will there be a commute and is it worth it?

If you are accustomed to a certain type of lifestyle, you need to make sure that your new job will support that. So if you choose to live in the penthouse don’t get a job at Starbucks. Make sure to also get something you will enjoy! It’s hard enough moving to a new city and meeting new people, you want your work to be enjoyable. Don’t get a good paying job doing something you hate, because you will NOT be happy. This is called a vocational fit. AND IT IS SO IMPORTANT!!!!! Look it up. Last and most least, the commute. Commute is important, but not as important as the other two things. If you find your dream job that pays bank but it’s a 30 minute to an hour drive, TAKE IT. But if it’s not a job you’re absolutely sold on, then it probably wouldn’t be worth it to drive that far every day.

STEP 4: BUDGET

Honestly, you could not spend enough time planning out a budget. So many times have I gotten myself into a financial pickle because I didn’t budget. First add together how much all your bills combined would be: rent, insurance, electricity, wifi, car payment, etc. Then add groceries and gas (make sure to include necessities such as laundry detergent, shampoo, toothpaste, etc). Then add any other monthly payments you might have, netflix, hulu, tanning, gym, spotify. After you add up all these expenses, subtract them from your paycheck and whatever is left over you can save or spend. My parents always told me to save 10% of every paycheck. But whatever works for your lifestyle. Microsoft has some easy to follow budget spreadsheets. I found mine on Pintrest. There are tools out there for you, USE THEM.

STEP 5: MOVE!!!

This is the final and most exciting step in your new adventure! Have your friends help you and entice them with an awesome pizza party afterward. Or hire movers to do the heavy lifting (literally). After your new place is full of boxes and smells like sweat, sit on the floor and enjoy an ice cold beer. Start making plans to explore the city, fantasize about all the adventures you’ll have here. Then sleep on the floor in a sleeping bag because you’re probably too tired to put together your IKEA bed.

Coming from someone who has moved 9 times in the past 5 years, moving can be mentally and emotionally draining. What I’ve learned is to be prepared and have a positive outlook! Allow yourself to be vulnerable and enjoy what new life lessons you will experience during this next chapter of your journey! Happy travels!