Questions To Ask When Considering Relocation For A Job

Moving to start a new job, or following an old one to a new location, is a big deal. Job relocation can be difficult for people with family and friends who live nearby, as it is a life-changing event with many unknowns. Is the job worth the hassle of moving? Will you love your new home? Not only are you uprooting yourself from familiar surroundings, but you’ll be altering your career trajectory and the lives of your loved ones.

This article discusses the questions you should ask yourself before relocating for a job. We explore the pros and cons of moving so you can make the best choice for you and your family. We also provide tips on how to make the relocation as painless as possible.

At CulverCareers, we work with employers and candidates to find perfect matches. We go Beyond Recruiting to support organizations and job seekers with comprehensive, holistic recruiting services.

Questions To Ask Before Relocating

What should you consider before relocating? Think about how the new job might advance your career, how moving to a new town will affect your lifestyle and your family, and the cost of living in your new location. Here are some key questions you should ask yourself before embarking on your job relocation plans.

What is the cost of living in the new area?

Research the cost of living in your new city. Consider commuting costs, utility costs, food costs, sales tax, state and local income taxes, and property taxes. Are they more or less than what you’re currently paying? Will your new salary cover any additional expenses? 

Will relocating have career advancement opportunities?

Ask yourself if this new position will enable you to learn, grow, and advance your career. Is the company doing well, and is its future sustainable? If the business isn’t financially stable, you may have to look for work again soon in an unfamiliar city. 

Will refusing to relocate hurt your position in the company?

Certain businesses require employees to work in different locales on various assignments before offering a promotion. If you refuse to relocate, you may become trapped in your current position with no chance of advancement.

How will relocating affect your family?

Don’t underestimate the ramifications of leaving behind family, friends, and habits. Will your new neighborhood offer similar conveniences and opportunities? Culturally, is it a good match for you and your family? If you have children, learn about the local school system and its reputation. Does your partner have a place to work there? Reflect on your ability to adjust to change.

Will the company pay to help you relocate?

Relocating for a job can be expensive. If your employer offers additional compensation for your 

moving expenses, that can save you a lot of money.

Where will you live?

Housing is probably the most crucial issue when considering a move. Should you rent or buy a new home? Does your new employer provide temporary housing? Are there attractive amenities in your new neighborhood?

What is the commute like?

A long commute can turn an enjoyable career into a nightmare. Research your commuting options before moving to a new city. Is it an easy drive? Is there public transportation? If you like riding your bicycle to work, are there safe and accessible bike routes? 

These are all vital considerations. Gather as much information as you can beforehand.

Pros and Cons of Relocating for a Job

When considering a move for a new or relocated job, evaluate these pros and cons before uprooting yourself and your family.

Pros

• Career Advancement
• Networking opportunities
• Better pay/promotion

Cons

• It can be difficult for the family, especially with kids
• Moving stress 
• You might like where you currently live
• Any significant change involves risk, and you should be compensated

Is relocating for a new job worth it? A higher salary may be appealing, but only you can determine if the potential career benefits are worth the uncertainty and if your quality of life will improve. 

If the move means leaving loved ones behind or your family is unhappy in the new locale, the additional pay may not be worth it. If you are comfortable with your current job and lifestyle, you may not want to change everything about your life.  

Advice for Job Relocation

If you’ve completed the soul-searching and have decided that the new job is worth the risk of a move, here are some tips for a smoother relocation process.

Research the Area

Learn about your new home and its amenities. What are the best places to relocate to? According to U.S. News & World Report’s 2024-2025 Best Places to Live rankings, the top 10 cities include Colorado Springs, Colorado; Austin, Texas; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Boise, Idaho.

Make a Plan

Write a detailed list of everything you need to do to prepare for your move, both before and after. Set a realistic timeline for relocation, including time to get settled in before you start your new job.  

Get Involved

Get involved with local groups, events, and other employees already in the area. They’ll help you to adapt to the new location, learn where everything is, and feel like a local more quickly.

Give Yourself Time

It’s impossible to know everything about a new neighborhood and city. Give yourself time to adjust to your new surroundings.  

Sales Recruitment and Relocation With CulverCareers

At CulverCareers, we can help businesses find local employees in many locations so no one must relocate. Job seekers will find that our CulverCareers Jobs Board features exceptional career opportunities across the U.S. If relocation is necessary, we offer employer and employee services that may make relocation easier.

Relocation can be a stressful time. That’s why CulverCareers offers a wide range of services to help with recruitment and employee retention.