Casey T Muller

After watching Lebron James make the decision to “take his talents to South Beach” I posed the above question to my friends on Facebook. This made me think personally about my own life. Would I move for a better opportunity?

Many people consider moving out of town, or even out of state, when they’re looking for a job. Relocating can be exciting and bring new opportunities. However, It can also be stressful, costly, and put you far away from family and friends. There are three major things to consider when contemplating moving for a job.

Stay or Go
Before accepting a position in another city or state, make sure you do some homework on your new home. Weather, economy, real estate, etc. Make sure you know what you want out of the new job and ask yourself:

Are there other opportunities in the area?
Would it be worth it to stay in your current town and accepting a lower-paying job until the local job market improves?
Does the opportunities in the new location outweigh your current one?

Cost of Living
A job may sound great because a company offered you twice as much as your current salary, but if the cost of living is three times as high, you’d be better off financially staying where you are. Investigate the cost of living in your current town and compare the cost against the place you’re considering. Create a budget and don’t forget about the extra money you’ll spend on down payments for housing and utilities, and the cost to set up internet, cable or a new phone number.

Family & Friends
Some people enjoy the thrill of a new environment, but others enjoy the company of family and friends. When you move to a new, unfamiliar place, you often leave behind people you spend your spare time with. Some adapt easily, making a new home and friends in a new environment, while others end up moving back home to be near those they love. If you’re unable to adapt to your new environment and become unhappy, your mood can negatively impact your work and hinder your success.

Personally, I moved for a better opportunity and all of the above I took into consideration before I moved. If you keep this in mind this could help you make a wise decision about your future and who knows maybe you will be taking your talents to South Beach too.

Moving without a job? Try these strategies.