Finding the Right Community When Considering Moving

June 12, 2023

Whether it’s your first time moving or your fifteenth, you likely understand how stressful the process can be. In fact, moving is more stressful than a breakup for many people. Luckily, you can ease the stressors of moving for yourself and those around you. One of the most salient ways is by considering what you want and need in a community.

Reasons for Moving

Moving to a new area can be an exciting and often transformative experience. While figuring out where you would like to live, also evaluate your reasons for uprooting from your current place. Some of the most common reasons for moving include:

• A fresh start;
• Better school district for children;
• Down- or up-sizing;
• Preferable climate;
• Proximity to family, friends, or partner;
• Work-related opportunities.

Whatever your specific reason(s) may be, it’s important to balance the pros and cons. Any of the above reasons for moving to a new community are valid. You just have to make sure the move is right for your current situation. If you’re moving for work, for example, make sure that the new location aligns with both your professional and personal goals.

Your move may open up room for advancement in your career, but you might miss the feeling of the close-knit community that you have in your current area. It's crucial to research the community's amenities, recreational activities, and cultural offerings. These factors will play a significant role in your overall satisfaction and quality of life in the new location.

Urban vs. Rural

Moving to an urban area, a rural area, or somewhere in between in the suburbs each offers unique advantages and considerations. It’s crucial to compare and contrast these options to help you make the most informed decision, even if you think you prefer one area over the other initially.

Urban

Urban areas, for starters, are often fast-paced, economic centers with a wide range of employment opportunities across various industries. Bigger cities also offer a plethora of amenities that you might not find elsewhere, including restaurants, shopping centers, cultural institutions, entertainment venues, and healthcare facilities. They usually have well-developed public transportation systems, making it easier to navigate these amenities without relying heavily on a personal vehicle.

If you value diversity, urban areas may be for you. They are more likely to be melting pots of different cultures, providing opportunities to engage with more colorful communities and experience a vibrant cultural scene. Just make sure that you’re aware of some of the drawbacks, such as a higher cost of living with expensive housing, higher taxes, and increased daily expenses. Cities can also be crowded. Noise pollution and a fast-paced lifestyle can contribute to stress and decreased quality of life if that kind of scene is not for you.

Rural

If you’re looking for somewhere more peaceful and natural, rural areas may be right for you. They typically offer a quieter environment, fresher air, and greener spaces. They can often provide a slower-paced lifestyle and a stronger sense of community. Although rural areas have seen recent rising inflation, these areas are still generally cheaper than urban metropolitan areas. You’ll have more money and more space for outdoor activities, gardening, and privacy with larger lots or acreage.

If you are looking to boost your wellness with this move, access to nature promotes a healthier lifestyle. Just ensure you’re aware that rural locations may have limited amenities. You’ll likely have less immediate access to shopping centers, cultural events, or specialized services. Medical facilities and educational institutions may also be further away. You may also have to make a longer commute to work if that is a factor.

Suburban

If you’re looking for something with a balance of urban and rural characteristics, suburbs offer a middle ground. They often provide a more relaxed and family-friendly environment while still having access to amenities. Suburbs are also often in well-regarded school districts near parks and recreational facilities. If you’re looking for a sense of community, you can likely find that here.

Suburban living typically provides larger housing options, yards, and green spaces compared to urban areas. However, you might be sacrificing commute time to work or activities in the city. Consider whether or not your vehicle is reliable enough to handle longer driving time to get where you need to go.

Ultimately, the choice between urban, rural, and suburban areas depends on your health and wellness concerns, lifestyle preferences, job opportunities, budget for housing, and desired community environment.

More Factors To Consider

The decision to move to a different location is very personal. The type of community you are looking for is unique to you, so make a list of your preferences and necessities to really narrow your new spot down. In any case, make sure to evaluate the following before moving:

• Safety: Research the area's crime rates, neighborhood watch programs, and general safety measures to ensure a secure living environment.
• Education: If you have children or plan to pursue further education, examine the quality of local schools and nearby colleges or universities.
• Transportation: Evaluate the accessibility of public transportation options, major highways, and airports for ease of commuting and travel.
• Community services: Look into the availability of essential community services such as healthcare facilities, libraries, recreational centers, and social support networks.
• Cost of living: Consider the affordability of housing, utilities, groceries, and other daily expenses relative to your income and lifestyle.
• Climate: Assess the climate and weather patterns of the new location to ensure it aligns with your preferences and lifestyle needs.

By thoroughly researching and considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing your new community.