Moving is one of the most stressful life events, whether it’s in a different house or an entirely different city or state. It’s also an opportunity for a fresh start and a way to create something incredible for yourself.
Every move comes with a lot of logistics, budgeting, and making plans. From packing one room at a time to learning all there is to know about your new neighborhood, it can get overwhelming fast.
Luckily, we’re here to help! Here are 10 tips for moving to a new city the easy way, without the stress and overwhelm.
1. Make a Plan for the Move
Figuring out how to move across the country starts with a plan. This is where you write down everything related to the move, from what to pack to plane tickets, budgets, movers, and information on logistics.
Having everything written down on paper (or your computer) will help you think more clearly and avoid a lot of stress and overwhelm.
Start making the plan at least a month before the move. This way, even if something gets canceled or derailed, you’ll still have time to think of a solution.
2. Purge and Declutter Your Stuff
Before you start packing, get rid of, donate, and sell as much of your stuff as possible. You’ll not only make some extra money but also save on moving fees. Getting rid of old things is a great way to start over in a new city.
3. Process Your Feelings
One of the best moving tips for relocating to a different city is to properly process what’s happening. Moving is a huge life event, especially to a new city where you probably don’t know anyone.
So give yourself time to feel all your emotions, grieve the life and people you’re leaving, and let the fear of the unknown come and go. Releasing these emotions is healthy for you and will help you adjust to the new environment better.
4. Hire a Reputable Moving Company
The biggest source of stress during a move can be finding a moving company that’s reputable and legitimate. It’s your precious belongings we’re talking about, after all. And if you’re moving to a new state, you’ll probably want to fly there and have your larger belongings shipped afterward.
The same goes for your car as well. If the new city is on the other side of the country and driving is not an option, learn more info on how to get your car shipped there safely.
5. Start Packing One Room at a Time
Wondering how to move your entire life in a few boxes? Start by packing one room at a time. Begin with the room you use the least. For example, if your garage is full of seasonal stuff that you won’t use soon, pack them and get them ready for moving.
Then, pack the seasonal clothes and any items you use for decor or don’t use often. When moving day comes, you won’t have to worry if you forgot something.
6. Get Your Savings Right
Moving to a new city, whether in the same or a different state, can be costly. You’ll need to have savings to get you by for at least 6 months. It’s important to start saving for the move at least a year in advance or keep your existing savings intact until you move.
At the same time, expect to have some unforeseen expenses once you move. This is why it’s essential to have healthy savings so you can have peace of mind.
7. Look for a New Job
One of the best tips for moving to a new city is to find a new job there before the move. This way, you’ll have something to look forward to and get some sense of safety to help you adjust to your new life better.
Even if you plan to look for a job once you move, it’s still a good idea to research the companies you’d like to work for, see the salary range, and the commutes you should expect.
8. Visit the Neighborhood You’ll Be Moving To
The best way to figure out how to get used to a new city is to visit the neighborhood you’ll be living in. It’s a great way to learn all the streets, stores, and amenities in the area, as well as the people who live there.
This will also help you ease into the move and won’t be a big shock when you finally get there. The reason why moving to a completely new city can be scary is because of fear of the unknown. If you get to know the area little by little, it won’t be an ‘unknown’ by the time you settle in.
9. Start Looking for a Home
If you’re trying to figure out how to get used to a new city, start looking for a place to live well ahead of time. This will help you feel confident in your decision and give you a sense of security.
First, think about who you may know in the new city. If you don’t know anyone, ask your family and friends if they have any close friends there willing to help you out. You can also research homes on your own, and if you plan to rent, check out the price points for different neighborhoods.
10. Do New Things and Go To New Places
Moving to another city means everything is new. You get to start over and find a new favorite coffee shop, a new favorite restaurant, a favorite gym, and new secret spots. This can seem overwhelming but it can also be exciting if you let it.
Doing new things will also lead to meeting new people and making friends. All of this can help you start feeling more at home and get you out of a funk. Big moves like this can be very stressful and nostalgia is likely to happen but having a goal to your day can be exactly what you need to settle in nicely.
Follow These Tips for Moving to a New City for a Fresh New Start
Whether this is your first big move or you’re an experienced mover, these tips for moving to a new city will help you go through the process more easily.
Need more moving tips? Check out our blog where we post regularly on this topic to help you transition into your new exciting life as smoothly as possible.