1. Cost of Living
The cost of living can vary dramatically from state to state. What feels affordable in one city could feel like a financial stretch in another. Beyond just home prices, factor in groceries, transportation, insurance, healthcare, and entertainment.
Tip: Use online cost-of-living calculators to compare your current city to your future one. For example, you might find that while rent is cheaper in one state, utilities or car insurance are significantly higher.
2. Job Market and Employment Opportunities
Unless you’re transferring with your current employer, it’s critical to evaluate the local job market. Is your industry strong in the area you’re moving to? Are companies hiring? What’s the average salary for your profession in that state?
Pro tip: Even if you’re remote, check state-specific labor laws and how they could affect your employment (some states tax remote work differently or have stricter employment regulations).
3. Housing Market Conditions
Whether you’re buying or renting, research the housing market in your new area. Look into average home prices, rent rates, property taxes, and how quickly homes sell. Also consider the kind of neighborhood you’d like—urban, suburban, or rural—and how much home you can get for your budget.
If you’re planning to buy, talking to a local mortgage professional early in the process can help you get a clearer picture of what’s realistic and what you can afford.
4. State Taxes and Financial Impacts
Taxes can have a huge impact on your monthly and annual expenses. Some states (like Florida, Texas, and Nevada) have no state income tax, while others (like California or New Jersey) have higher tax rates.
You should also consider:
Property tax rates (especially if you’re buying)
Sales tax
Vehicle registration fees
Retirement and pension taxation (if applicable)
Even a small difference in tax rates can add up over time.
5. Weather and Climate
The climate in your new state might take some getting used to. If you’re used to dry heat and you’re moving somewhere humid, or you’re trading snowy winters for hot summers, it can affect everything from your health to your daily comfort level.
Also, be aware of climate-related risks like hurricanes, wildfires, flooding, or extreme winters. These can impact your homeowners insurance and preparedness costs.
6. School Districts and Education
If you have children—or plan to—school quality should be a top consideration. Great schools tend to correlate with higher property values, and even if you don’t have kids, a strong school district can be a smart investment.
Resources like GreatSchools.org or local school board websites can help you compare ratings, test scores, and reviews.
7. Access to Healthcare
What kind of medical care is available nearby? Are there hospitals, urgent care clinics, or specialists within a reasonable distance? If you have specific health needs, be sure to research whether providers in your new area accept your current insurance—or if you’ll need to switch.
Healthcare access often gets overlooked until it’s needed. Don’t wait until an emergency to find out how far you have to drive or what’s covered.
8. Lifestyle and Culture Fit
Every region has its own rhythm and personality. Do you prefer a fast-paced city lifestyle or a slower, more suburban or rural environment? Are outdoor activities, nightlife, or cultural amenities important to you?
Visit the area if you can before moving. Spend a few days exploring local parks, grocery stores, coffee shops, and neighborhoods. Ask yourself, “Can I see myself living here day-to-day?”
9. Transportation and Commuting
Will you need a car, or does the area have public transportation? What are traffic patterns like? If you’re moving to a large metro area, your commute might be longer than expected—even if your new home is only a few miles from work.
Bonus tip: If you work remotely, still consider proximity to co-working spaces or easy access to airports, especially if travel is part of your routine.
10. Community and Support Network
One of the hardest parts of moving is leaving behind friends, family, and familiar support systems. If you’re moving somewhere where you don’t know anyone, think about how you’ll build your new social network. Are there local events, meetups, or organizations that interest you?
Also, consider how often you’ll realistically be able to visit loved ones or have them visit you.
Final Thoughts
Moving to a new state is a major transition, but it can be incredibly rewarding when done with the right planning and preparation. Take time to research, visit if possible, and weigh the pros and cons of each decision along the way.
And if your move involves buying a home, don’t go it alone—partnering with a mortgage expert familiar with out-of-state relocations can save you time, money, and stress.
Need help navigating the mortgage process in a new state?
Whether you’re moving for a job, family, or a fresh start, I’m here to help you find the best financing options and guide you through your next big step. Let’s talk about how to make your move a smooth one—reach out anytime!
