Moving to a new city, jurisdiction, or state is a big decision, but many of us make it to live a more fulfilling life. If you can’t find your dream job where you are now, you may want to relocate to a place that offers better opportunities. But how can you tell if making this step is worth it?
How to Decide Whether to Relocate for a Job
There are dozens of great reasons to relocate for a job, but that doesn’t mean the long-term benefits outweigh the potential negatives. You also have to consider your family’s opinion.
Can you work remotely? Is there a relocation package?
The ability to work remotely would be a win-win scenario for you and your family. Even if the job isn’t advertised as remote, there’s still a chance they’ll accommodate you. For example, if they have the infrastructure for video interviews, they may have other remote-ready tools in place.
However, some jobs can’t be performed remotely. If that’s the case, explain that your employer has to include a relocation package in your contract. It’s always better to have a job lined up before you move, so it’s a good idea to start the interview process and scope out the market.
Do you have a family? Do you have children?
Your decision affects you and your immediate family. If you move, that could make your partner unemployed or cause your children to lose their friends. Sometimes, moving anyway is worth these risks, but you have to speak to your family first to ease anxiety and build excitement.
Keep in mind that moving with a family will be much more expensive and may require the assistance of a moving company. This top 10 list of the best nationwide moving companies should help you make a budget. Opt for companies with transparent pricing plans and deposits.
Are you moving for a slight pay increase?
It’s not a bad idea to move for a bigger paycheck, but that paycheck has to keep up with cost of living to be worth it. If you’re making $55,000 a year in Idaho, but a job opportunity in New York pays $60,000 per year, you’ll be struggling, especially if you’re working out of New York City.
If you’re moving without a job, then it’ll be difficult to justify transitioning from a small town to a large city. The competition for jobs is fiercer, so there may be a long stretch of time when you’re unemployed. Have a plan B and C if this happens, or consider living with a close friend.
Does this job opportunity progress your career?
It’s tempting to accept positions that are similar in rank in new cities, especially when you’re unhappy. But if you’re going to move, it’s better to upgrade your job title. A promotion would help your career progress and make your job more secure, as senior positions are harder to fill.
If you’re unsatisfied with your current situation and you can’t make big career moves right away, apply for jobs nearby instead. When you know the area and the people, networking is easier. Plus, changing where you work can have a big impact on your mental health and wellness.
Are you making this decision, or is somebody else?
Maybe you’re reading this because your partner wants to move, but you’re happy where you are. In some cases, the move can be worth it. For example, if your partner finds a great opportunity with a growing company, even if the pay is lower, then consider going for it.
On the other hand, you may regret the move if things don’t work out. If your relationship is on the rocks, or one or both of you isn’t interested in a committed relationship, moving won’t improve your situation. Both parties must be on the same page to make the move work.
