How to Move to A Cheaper City

By VanLines.com

In today’s difficult economy, we need to do a lot of things to make ends meet and live comfortably. If you’re struggling, or you just want to make sure your retirement dollars will go a longer way, you might want to consider moving to a cheaper city.

For example, in cheaper cities, $100,000 can go a long away, compared to cities like New York or Chicago. Even if you made half that, you can live like a king in Americus, Georgia where the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $547 and the average house payment is $800.

Of course, if you can’t afford to move or you work in an industry that doesn’t have a high demand for jobs, then you may be better off in your city. However, if you’re in between jobs or about to retire, you may want to look into moving to a cheaper city.

Figure Out What You Want.

First things first, you have to know what you want in your new city, aside from the cheaper cost of living. Do you want to go to somewhere with a lot of younger or older people? Does it have to be near a major airport so you can visit friends or have them visit you? Do you have to be in a place with a lot of nightlife or cultural events? Are you interested in moving somewhere with mild weather? You may be able to save a lot of money, but you don’t want to be miserable in your new city.

Do Your Research.

Before you even start looking at new house or jobs, you have to do your research. The Internet is filled with a lot of resources, but also try to reach out to acquaintances and friends who live in places you want to go to. If you have the resources, try to visit and check out the neighborhoods you might want to live in. You may find some things that are deal breakers, and it’s hard to undo major decisions once you’ve set things in motion.

Calculate Costs and Savings.
Try to figure out how much you’ll be spending in the new city, and how much you’re actually saving. For example, if you’re saving $200 on rent, but you have to buy a car and pay for gas, it may be better for you to stay put.

Save Up.
Before hiring moving services, you’ll have to save up for it. Moving costs money – not only bringing yourself to the new city, but you stuff too. Also, if you don’t have a job secured in your new city, you may need some cushioning, like at least 6 months living expenses in case you don’t find a job right away.

Moving to a cheaper city can help you save a lot of money or perhaps even make it possible for you to retire earlier. However, don’t make this decision in haste. Think about it carefully, as there may be some things you won’t have – like your family and friends nearby – so you have to make sure it’s the right decision for you.