Choosing the Best City: What to Consider
If you feel a calling to move to a new city, you are not alone. Many are seeking a fresh start to new experiences, with an urge to explore new social communities. While each relocation need is unique, the need to find a place that fits is something everyone aspires to do. In this week’s article, we’ll explore how you can select the best city for you and what you need to consider before your big move.
Current Relocation Trends
Over the years, notable relocation trends in the U.S. have led many to believe that a modern, reversed great migration is underway. There is an increase in BIPOC families and individuals relocating to the South, mainly due to affordability and career opportunities. These exoduses are coming from high-cost states like California and New York. With the increased cost of living in the U.S. and stagnant or declining wages, many are seeking financial relief and see relocating as a viable option. Let’s take a look at how to choose a location with your ideal cost of living.
Cost of Living/Affordability
Money plays a key role in location and quality of life. For instance, an apartment in a high-cost state may not provide the space and quality found in a secondary or small city. If money is a big motivator in your search and you aim to get more bang for your buck, consider cities that can provide most of your needs and wants at a more affordable cost. Housing costs matter, as they're likely to be one of your most significant bills. Another financial consideration is the average pay for your career or job in the specified state. Pay close attention to the state's average wage and housing cost comparisons: low wages and low-cost housing; low wages and high-cost housing; high wages and low-cost housing; high wages and high-cost housing. Clearly, some of these scenarios are more or less ideal than others, so keep that in mind during your search.
Work and Career Opportunities
You may choose a city based on the career opportunities it provides. For those of you starting in a new career or looking to pivot, this may be critical for your future success. Find out what both your city and its state are known for, industry-wise. For example, content creators are flocking to L.A. and NYC, despite their high costs, because they offer the most opportunities and visibility in their industry. Another good example is the booming tech industry in Silicon Valley, Austin, Boston, Seattle, and Denver. Research the best locations for your current or desired career field and see which places align with your other goals.
Some cities may not rank high in your career field, but still offer great opportunities, so be sure to expand your options. Remote work is another excellent way to gain experience in a location of your choice while living elsewhere.
Diversity, Culture, and Community
Each city has a different variety of people, activities, culture, and communities. For many BIPOC people, living in a city with diverse cultures is essential to them. Some of the biggest cities in the U.S. are often hubs of diversity, bringing more culture and creativity to the environment. This is why diverse towns are known for their many events, great food, unique shops, and minority-owned businesses.
***One of the things I loved the most about living in Houston was its diverse population, and large Mexican population. Mexican Americans added so much to the city through their businesses, fresh foods, artistic contributions, and more. As a black woman, I also felt a sense of community and safety, as Houston also has a large black population. Being able to go to black-owned restaurants, events, and experience other black people thriving was essential to me.
Arts, Recreation, and Nightlife
Imagine moving somewhere, and there's nothing for you to do. For those of you looking for a bit of excitement, activities are needed to fully experience a city. Some cities are more lively than others, offering more things to do. If you prefer to keep yourself busy with regular visits to museums, restaurants, shops, and bars, you may want to consider a city big enough to support your adventurous spirit. On the flip side, if you tend to be a homebody or open to traveling to big cities, then residing in a town with less buzz may work for you.
Parks, Mountains, and Beaches
The outdoorsy type can appreciate a nice park to picnic in, mountains to hike, and beaches to swim. Some cities offer it all; others may have only 1 or 2 of the 3. It’s vital to assess what is important to you, and what aspects of nature you find inspiring. Nature has a significant impact on our physical and mental health, so living in a city where nature is not only accessible but also interactable is essential.
***As someone who likes to hike, I was disappointed when I discovered how flat Houston was. Although Houston made up for its lack of mountains with great parks and a beach just 45 min away, I should have researched ahead of time. I’m also a bit of a park snob and like spending time in a really nice park. Both cities I've lived in so far, Atlanta and Houston, have had nice parks and provided me with space to spend time in nature. So moving forward, nice parks are always at the top of my personal list.
Governance, Politics, and Crime
Ways in which the city is governed impacts you. While some towns spend a lot of money on city upkeep, keeping streets and parks clean, others don't see it as a priority. Some cities prioritize walkability and invest in transportation, while others don't. Remember, local politics will be a deciding factor in where funds are allocated, so stay informed. Don't forget, crime is another primary concern, as you want to reduce your risk of danger. Stay up to date on the city's crime trends and the local government's plans to fight crime.
***Having lived in mid-to high-crime cities, I recommend selecting safer neighborhoods and being selective of the company you keep to reduce danger. I also suggest living somewhere with good security. Having pepper spray or getting a registered gun for protection could also make you feel safer.
Which City is for You?
Keep in mind your original motivation for moving to a new city and what you would like to get out of the experience. What’s your new city? Tell me on threads or interact with me on my socials.
