Are You Ready to Move Across the Country for a New Job?

Having to start a new job is nothing short of challenging. However, having to move across the country in order to start a new job is even more nerve-racking. In fact, it is one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through.

Whether you are considering a promotion or looking for a fresh start in a new city, relocation presents a major life change. For this reason, it is important to approach the situation from different angles before making the final call. And if you do not know where to begin, stick around. We have prepared a list of ideas for you to consider before moving to the other side of the country for a new job.

Before deciding on your new job offer, you would do well to research the area you are about to relocate to. It is no secret that every city beats to its own drum, but knowing how to go about your move day will help you in the long run. 

“Relocating to New York City comes with its own set of challenges,” says Nancy Zafrani, the general manager of Oz Moving. “As a New York moving company with over two decades of experience under the belt, we always advise our clients to book elevators, disassemble furniture, and plan for traffic before their move day.”

With that in mind, you will want to get in touch with an established moving company that can help smoothen your relocation experience. After all, preparation is half the battle.

Even if your new job comes with the promise of a better salary, the costs of relocating could easily swallow it whole. Since relocation expenses cannot be deducted from the federal income tax, you should discuss the relocation terms with your employer.

While some are ready to offer full assistance, smaller employers will only cover your relocation expenses to an extent. Either way, keep in mind that you should always read the fine print of your contract. By doing so, you will know if there is room for negotiation. Moreover, the contract will state if the expenses covered by your employer will have to be repaid in the future.

Being unaware of the living expenses will only spell trouble. The cost of living plays an important role, no matter where your new job is located. To that end, the best way to go about this is to compare the new salary with your current situation.

Although housing is undoubtedly going to have the biggest impact on your budget, you have to consider the cost of other amenities as well. That is to say, your new salary will have to cover additional expenses such as taxes, utilities, groceries, and healthcare. Ultimately, if the numbers do not add up, you may have to reconsider your cross-country job offer.

What do you enjoy doing the most? Do you like large communities, sports events, shopping, commuting, and the like? Or do you prefer the peace and quiet of small-town living instead?

These are probably some of the questions you should ask yourself before accepting a job offer across the country. Getting out of your comfort zone may be necessary, but it will not bode well if you come unprepared. For this reason, you should gather as much information as you can about the new area. And if possible — plan a visit too.

If you are in a relationship or have children, this could further complicate the matter. Ideally, your family will be supportive of your endeavors and look forward to relocating with you. However, this may not always be the case.

Coupled with the previously mentioned relocation and living expenses, you should consider your partner’s employability. You may have found your dream job, but what about your partner? Will they be able to contribute to the financial security of your household? Furthermore, your children’s psychological well-being is another aspect you should not ignore. You need to understand that it may take some time for them to come to terms with your decision. Since relocation is bound to impact their social lives, it is up to you to ensure that their emotional needs are met. 

By and large, tending to family matters while keeping an open mind will help everyone in the process. Moreover, it will also reveal if your decision to take on a new cross-country job is the right decision for all parties involved.

Last but not least, it boils down to this — are you ready to explore and tackle the unknown? Even if you have all your ducks in a row, unexpected difficulties may arise. After all, your new job on the other side of the country could easily equal a complete life disruption.

Meeting new people and getting to know them is an exciting prospect. However, there are times when you will find a pre-existing social support system more encouraging. With that said, you should always be ready to stand in your power when combating the unfamiliar. Only then will you truly know that you can handle whatever a cross-country job throws your way.

All things considered, moving across the country for a new job will require you to take a leap of faith. In the long run, your ability to assimilate, remain flexible, and be open to new experiences will determine your success.

Also, remember that prudent choices go a long way. While there is nothing wrong with putting yourself first, you should consider your loved ones' take on the matter as well. Ultimately — we wish you the best of luck with your cross-country job. Safe travels!