Think twice before relocating for a job

By Melissa Wirkus

Moving can be a hassle in itself, and if you are moving to a new city because of a job, the process can be even more overwhelming and stressful.

There are many things to consider when deciding to take a job in a new state or even in a new city. One must think of their overall level of happiness as well as the cost of living and salary, among many other things.

Even if your new job will give you double the salary of your old career, if you are not happy in the new city, no amount of money will make it better.

That is why it is very important to consider all of your options before taking a job in a new location.

A November 1, 2006 article by Diana Ransom of The Wall Street Journal’s Real Estate Journal, “Does it pay off to relocate to a new locale for your job?” looks into the various reasons why staying put could be the best option for some, while trying a new place is good for others.

“Moving for a job, especially when you're just starting out, can be the springboard that launches your career. But weigh your options carefully. Where you move is just as important for your happiness as the job you move for, many career managers and recruitment professionals say.”

“Moving to a new locale is risky because there are so many unknowns. Add in a new job and you set yourself up for a pretty stressful time. So make sure that the job on the other end is worth it.”

A good way to analyze this is by asking where you see yourself in five years. If you can not see yourself in your new location, then the move is probably not a good idea.

Also, make sure you’re going to be in it for the long haul, and the company wants it that way too. There would be no sense in moving across the country or your state only to be “let go” after a couple of months.

One of the biggest things that should influence your decision is the cost of living in the particular city you are moving to; as compared to the city you are coming form. There is a big difference in housing costs and everyday items from New York to Kansas, so plan accordingly. A salary can go a lot further in Topeka than in Manhattan.

“Also weigh the costs of making the move and ask how much of that your new employer will pay. More than 90% of U.S. companies will cover some if not all of a person's relocation expenses, which may include house-hunting trips, temporary housing and closing costs on a new home, according to Worldwide ERC, a professional relocation association.

Unreimbursed moving expenses may be tax-deductible.”

Another big factor to consider is moving from a big city to a small city or from the city to the suburbs, or vice versa. It can be an extreme culture shock that can cost you your happiness.

“Weigh factors such as cultural offerings, sports and recreation opportunities, traffic and the pace of life. Even ‘the weather can really influence people's happiness,’ says Ms. Moore of Johns Hopkins. The question: Can you live with the differences?”

Back to Articles