Moving Across State Borders? Tips and Tricks for a Hassle Free Transition

There comes a time when many of us decide to just do it. Move to a new state. Just jump ship and try a new place, a new adventure, and leave all you have ever known behind for uncharted territories. Ahoy Mate!

Some people do it for a job, some for a spouse, some for the thrill or, the change. We really only do get one life, right, so let's see what else is out on this old earth!

But wait. Is it that easy? There must be some reservations. Can you just hop on a plane and go?

You probably should pick somewhere to live for starters- and some of us need to obtain some bartering tools (ex. Cash Mula). Whether your preference is farmland, or a hustling bustling city, you want to make sure the place you pick has the vibe you desire.

Maybe you have lived in the same town your whole life, or you went to college out of state, or did some traveling, but you have never actually uprooted your whole life and just replanted it cross country. Well, before you go on this turbulent adventure, maybe take these tips for the road.

Do Your Due Diligence to Find Your Perfect Sweet Spot

1. Cost of Living

A cup of Joe may not cost the same in neverland. In fact, if you look at the bestplaces.net index, overall cost of living in New York, NY is 81.7% more than in Laramie, WY. Home cost drives that number up in this case, so worry not, food is only 20.1% higher. It's important to check the stats on where you are going vs where you are coming from so you are prepared for the potential change in your financial situation.

2. Housing Market: To Rent, or To Buy?

We know that regardless of rising interest rates renting= paying 100% interest, so renting is never my vote for a long term solution. However, we have seen the market do quite a roller coaster ride these past years. Knowing the housing market where you are currently will give you important details on your net income from your current home. Knowing where you're going is just as important. You will need to know what prices are where you are looking to buy. Specific locations in certain states may have a higher cost based on different factors like proximity to a major city.

Talking to a local Realtor who knows the market can help you gage your options. (You can use well known housing sites such as Realtor.com, or reach out to me! I can refer you to a local agent who knows the lay of your land).

It may also make sense to rent for a year to give you some time to adjust to the state and find your perfect abode.

3. Employment

Did you line up your next money-making gig? You may want to dig into the availability of your job profile in the new location. More recently, many companies offer the luxury of remote work, so if you are able to do that it will help with the transition. Not all jobs are as prevalent in different regions so make sure if you have a niche that you want to keep, that it's available to you wherever you may go.

4. Transportation

However, you choose to go when you are on the go, make sure it's available. Traveling into cities can be burdensome, if you have to travel through one check alternative transportation methods such as trains and buses. Where is your closest airport? Do you need a bike friendly route?

5. Taxes

As Franklin once said, "Nothing is certain but death and taxes". Rest assured you can search far and wide but odds are slim of you avoiding this gem. Check out wallethub.com for some stats on state-by-state tax figures.

6. Weather

Disclaimer- I am a New Englander: Trust a weather report at your own risk. If you like some nice fall foliage, try New England- need sunny and 75? Ever thought of San Diego? USclimatedata.com has some data on average temperatures by state.

7. Proximity

Location, location, location! In reality prime location is different for every individual. Find some potential areas and use google maps to find how close your top priorities. Ex. Schools, grocery, work, parks, you name it, you want it- make sure you have it! If you can swing it, try to visit a few times before you make the move.

8. Moving and Storage Options: PLAN. AHEAD. Moving your 40 years' worth of accumulated treasures is no task for the weary. And with gas and diesel prices skyrocketing, so are moving costs. And if you cannot time your closing dates between locations you may need to consider storage options. Consider moving vans, full-service companies, pods and storage units. Find a reliable vendor with good prices, and book them ahead of time.

Don't Forget to Transfer….

1. Utilities. It's no fun moving in the dark. Call ahead of time for your gas, electric, cable, or whatever you deem a necessity.

2. Healthcare and Current Policies. Research the options in your new state. Your health plans may need to change, and you want to be sure there are providers in the area that meet your needs. Make sure you have enough of your prescriptions to hold you over during the transition.

3. Driver's License and Vehicle Registration. Your new state may have specific requirements on when you have to transfer your registration by, check with your states official website to make sure you are compliant and the local dmv.

4. Update Post Office Address, DMV and Register to Vote. You can do this online and put an effective date. It's recommended to put the request in at least 2 weeks in advance. After your move. Be sure to notify the DMV within their requested time frame, frequently 30 days. Voting is important! So add that to your to do list also.

5. Cancel or Transfer All Memberships. Gym, Yoga, magazines, etc. Don't pay for something you can't use!

6. Notify Your Kids Schools. Let their current school know as soon as possible and get that paperwork done. You will also want to contact the new school district to get then enrolled.

7. Auto and Home Insurance. Many times, with a home purchase the insurance is combined in that project but be sure your home and car insurance are active after your move.

8. Register Your Furry Friends. Needless to say don't forget about your companions! Some states have registration and vaccination requirements so be sure to double check your new state regulations.

There is a laundry list of to dos with a move, especially a move between states. Most importantly, familiarize yourself with area. Travel there any time you can. Use google maps street view to see where you are headed. We have unlimited resources at our fingertips nowadays. Preparing with research will make the transition and new adventure all the more enjoyable.

Best of luck, and happy travels!

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