Relocating to another city can be difficult, particularly when that city’s located in a different state. Leaving behind familiar surroundings to set yourself up in a new place isn’t easy. However, some 8 million Americans migrated to another state in 2021 for many reasons, including high rent.
For instance, Miami has been declared the least affordable region in America. A typical tenant in Miami spends 60% of their income on rent. So, if you plan to leave Florida and resettle somewhere else, consider these important factors before pursuing your relocation plan.
Following these suggestions, you can make your move out of Miami, Fl, a rather smooth transition.
1. Plan in advance
A little attention to detail and advanced planning can turn relocation into a nice adventure for your family. Start planning your upcoming state-to-state move in advance. Avoid switching homes in the summer, as it’s the peak season for movers all over the country. Instead, move in autumn or winter to cut down moving costs.
2. Hire reliable local movers
When it comes to short-distance moving, you can just ask your family and friends to lend you a hand. They may even let you borrow their truck/minivan to transport your belongings to your new home. Long-distance moves, however, need professional assistance from local movers. Many residents of Miami left between 2020 and 2022, and the city’s population has dropped by 0.8%, as of 2022 reports. It means many professional movers offer services to customers like you in the Magic City.
So look for the best Miami state-to-state movers & experts and contact them to get a free quote. Read online reviews, such as the ones posted on Better Business Bureau, and check the company’s license on the FMCSA’s website.
3. Research your new state
If you are moving to another state because of rising unaffordability, increasing crime rates, or another reason, you must research your destination before relocation. Researching your new state ensures you won’t face the same problems in your new home. For instance, many Florida residents leave the Sunshine State because of extreme weather, changing politics, or crowded beaches. Are you sure your destination state doesn’t have these problems too? That’s why you have to look into the following:
- State taxes
Despite all its shortcomings, Florida is known as a low-tax state. So, when moving to another state, you may encounter more state taxes than you’re used to paying.
- Cost of living
The city of Miami is 20% more expensive than the national average. Now, you need to compare Miami’s cost of living with your new hometown.
- Housing prices
If your state is known for unaffordable houses and unpayable rents, you should move to a state with lower housing prices.
4. Consider moving expenses
Migrating to another U.S. state isn’t cheap; it will cause you a pretty penny, especially if you are moving with family. For instance, a Forbes article estimates that it can cost you between $2,200 and $5,700 if it’s a long-distance move that you are planning. That’s why you should create a budget before moving and calculate all the expected relocation costs. Also, add some unexpected expenses (these typically range between $500 and $1,000). Some major moving expenses include:
- Traveling
- Packing supplies
- State-to-state movers
- Long-distance moving insurance
5. Updating your information
Moving from one state to another means updating your information, such as your house address. You must notify all relevant parties of your address change, including your family and friends. Ensure you have forwarded your mail to the new address and transferred utilities. Moreover:
- Get a new driver’s license
- Update your health insurance
- Update your voter registration
- Register your vehicle in the new state
6. Check healthcare and employment
A state-to-state move means you need another primary caregiver and a new dentist. So, look for experienced, well-reviewed medical practitioners in the new city. Look into the state’s healthcare system to determine if this is where you want to live for the next decade or two.
Similarly, you may need to look into the new state’s unemployment figures unless you’re moving due to work-related reasons. Spend some time job-hunting before moving out of Miami. It’s better to find a well-paying position that can reimburse you for moving costs or fund it.
7. Learn about the climate and culture
It’s common for people to feel a little homesick after moving to a new place. But it can become a more serious issue if the new state’s climate isn’t compatible with your nature and personality. Many people neglect this factor when preparing for their state-to-state relocation. For instance, N. Dakota is well-known for its cold, so if you are not a winter-loving person, choose sunny states, such as Arizona.
Similarly, learn about the local culture before moving to another city, such as the food scene, the nightlife, and cultural attractions. What kind of outdoor activities do locals enjoy? What sort of recreational facilities are located nearby?
8. Declutter your stuff
A survey shows that 3 out of 4 Americans regret relocating. The respondents cited many reasons they were remorseful about moving to another city. 19% of the respondents believe they should have brought fewer items to their new house. “Why didn’t we declutter more smartly?” It was their regret. However, you can still declutter to reduce your burden by following these tips:
- Go from room to room looking for useless items.
- Keep things that have a practical use or sentimental value.
- Make categories such as “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell,” and “Discard.”
- Put the items with sentimental value in a self-storage unit for now.
In a nutshell
Are you ready to leave Miami and move to another, more affordable place? Follow the guidelines discussed in this blog and make your state-to-state move an easy transition. You’ll have to look into healthcare and transportation in the new state. Make sure the climate and culture complement your nature. Declutter to reduce your luggage and hire local movers who may transport your belongings out of Florida.
Everyone needs to consider these factors when planning to migrate to another U.S. state.