There are over 180,000 members of the “Life After California” Facebook page, and likely similar pages for many other states where residents are seeking new places that may offer a better quality of life. A question commonly posted in such groups is a variation of, “I want to leave, but don’t know where to look”. There are a lot of factors that go into choosing your new hometown, and I hope these resources are as helpful to you as they were to us.
Moving to a new town is a significant decision that involves careful consideration of various factors. Whether you’re relocating for a job, family reasons, or simply seeking a change of scenery, it’s crucial to assess key aspects that can significantly impact your quality of life. You’ll likely be considering weather, cost-of-living, crime and personal interests in your search for new place to call home. In this guide, we’ll explore essential factors and give links to helpful resources to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right town to move.
Climate: Finding Your Ideal Weather
The climate of a town plays a pivotal role in your day-to-day life, influencing everything from outdoor activities to your overall well-being. You may be trading a temperate year-round climate for more defined seasons, but don’t let that deter you, as you will find wonderful towns from coast-to-coast. Before making a decision, it’s essential to understand the climate of potential locations. A town’s climate can range from hot and arid to cold and snowy, so consider your preferences and how well they align with the local weather patterns. Many people are afraid to move based on the weather, but you really do adapt and even enjoy the differing seasons, so don’t rule out areas with different weather patterns- embrace the change!
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Cost of Living: Balancing Finances
Understanding the cost of living in a new town is crucial for financial planning. It goes beyond housing expenses and includes groceries, transportation, healthcare, and other daily necessities. Research the cost-of-living index for different towns to get a comprehensive understanding of the financial commitments associated with each location. Your new town may have a lower average wage, but along with it, you may be paying lower utilities, taxes, vehicle registration fees, and less for fuel and other services. Put together a spreadsheet of all your current expenses and you will get a better idea of how to compare cost of living in other places.
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Safety: Prioritizing Your Well-Being
Safety is paramount when choosing a new town. Look into crime rates and neighborhood safety to ensure you’re moving to a place where you feel secure. Online crime maps and local police department websites can provide valuable insights into the safety of a town. I found AreaVibes to be an exceptionally helpful tool, as you can research amenities, crime, employment and other criteria. A home in the country may look great on the MLS listing, but a quick check of the town might reveal some red flags. It can also show you nearby areas with better scores. Take your time and dig into all the categories when researching a town to move to.
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Schools: Education Quality Matters
For families or individuals with children, the quality of schools is a crucial consideration. Research the local school districts, educational resources, and extracurricular activities available in potential towns. Look for reputable school ranking websites and reviews to gauge the educational opportunities each town offers.
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Natural Disasters: Assessing Environmental Risks
Understanding the susceptibility of a town to natural disasters is essential for your safety and peace of mind. Research the history of earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, or wildfires in the region. Having been evacuated for long periods of time due to fire, the last thing we wanted was to move to an area that may require evacuation due to regular weather events. Websites and tools provided by government agencies can offer valuable data on the environmental risks associated with different towns. It may take some digging, but it is time well spent, as these tools reveal useful historic data such as floods, number and category of tornados, earthquakes, and other weather events.
Useful Resources:
- NOAA National Weather Service- Tornado Data
- FEMA Flood Map Service Center
- USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
Other Considerations: Tailoring Your Decision
Beyond the major factors mentioned, consider additional aspects that align with your lifestyle and preferences. These may include cultural amenities, recreational opportunities, proximity to family and friends, and job market conditions. Assess the overall community vibe and whether it resonates with you. If you are within just a few years of retirement, you may consider a town with less employment opportunities. If you have more working years ahead, you may need to prioritize your job opportunities over other amenities. You may even want to research the cost of air travel from a potential new town, as they can vary widely, and may be a significant consideration if you plan to travel by air frequently.
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This country is filled with amazing places to call home, and choosing the right town involves a thoughtful examination of various factors that align to your values and preferences. Utilize the provided resources to gather data, take quizzes, and make informed decisions based on your priorities. Moving is a significant life change, and it’s worth investing your time and research to help ensure that your new town aligns with your lifestyle and goals. Best of luck in finding the perfect place to call home!
The Flaming Marshmallow 