Out of State Relocation
Whether it’s for a new job or simply a new adventure, moving to a new state is both overwhelming and exciting at the same time. Out of state moving comes with many benefits, but don’t forget the downsides before you start packing your bags.
The Benefits of Relocating to a New State
- A New Start: Many people move to a new state simply to broaden their horizons and enter a new chapter of their life. If you’ve lived in the same state for over twenty years, you likely have a natural eagerness to change up the scenery. This could mean opening the doors to new friendships and networking opportunities, or simply moving to a state with a more enticing climate.
- Better Job Opportunities: Let’s face it, not all states are equal when it comes to job opportunities and career advancement. It’s no surprise that a job seeker would have better luck finding employment in Vermont, where the unemployment rate is 2.2%, compared to Mississippi, where the unemployment rate is 5.4%. Depending on your line of work, you may have no choice but to relocate to a new state.
- Lower Income Taxes: State income taxes can take a huge chunk out of your paycheck. For example, Californians have to pay 13.3% in personal income taxes, while residents of Nevada and South Dakota don’t have to pay any personal income taxes at all. States with the highest personal income tax rates generally have some of the highest costs of living in the country (California, Hawaii, and Oregon).
The Downsides of Relocating to a New State
- Moving Costs: Residential moving comes with numerous costs, many of which people overlook. Moving supplies alone can cost hundreds of dollars, depending on how many belongings you have to move. You can find affordable moving supplies at Uline and free supplies on U-Haul Customer Connect. Before pulling out your wallet, it’s always a good idea to see if you have supplies lying around your house that you can reuse.
- Finding the Right Moving Company: Placing your valuable belongings in the hands of a moving company takes a lot of trust. Figuring out where to look for movers needs to be one of the first steps you take. Move.org is a free resource you can use to find moving companies near you and get quick and easy moving quotes. Another useful tool is Angie’s List, where you can search for real estate movers near you and read reviews.
- The Paperwork: When you move to a new state, you have to get a new driver’s license, register your car in the state, and establish domicile in the state. If you’re wondering how to change your address, that’s one of the easiest steps. Just go to the United States Postal Office’s website and fill out the change-of-address forum. It only takes a couple of minutes and costs a small fee.
Moving out of state is a headache for many, but if you’re well-prepared and know what you need to do ahead of time, the transition is much smoother than you think. Don’t overlook the power of the internet when it comes to finding a mover, searching for moving supplies, and establishing your legal residence in the new state.
