Moving to the East Coast is a feat folks frequently take on. Statistically, in 2021, large volumes of people moved Eastbound from the Los Angeles area, making it a continuous trend. If you plan to do the same, here are the challenges, benefits, and tips for making it happen effortlessly.
Tall buildings and old architecture - an eye-catching combo only Eastern states can offer
Here’s How to Make Your Recent Move to the Eastern States Comfortable
So, you’ve decided to move Eastbound from the West. This isn’t the first time someone’s done it, but there’s a lot of preparation involved in such a move. We’re not talking about money or hiring long-distance movers but mentally preparing for that feat.
The best way to get comfortable during the move is to contact a long-distance moving company. Plenty of cross-country moving services providers offer full package deals with packing services, free truck loading, relocation insurance, options for car shipping, and free storage service.
For other ways to prepare for a big move, we recommend following our relocation guide in this blog.
What’s Moving to the East Coast Like? The Different Benefits of This Move
Relocating to another state is never easy, but there can be loads of benefits to it. People often move for personal reasons, and despite facing a tremendous challenge, it is worth it.
If you need a slight push in the right direction, these reasons might help you take the first step.
Why Do People Move to the East Coast? It’s More Diverse in Every Way
Why do people move from East Coast to West Coast? Primarily for the weather, which is one of the top relocation essentials for many. If you like having four distinct seasons, you won’t mind living in Eastern states.
Overall, these parts of the US are more diverse in every way. From four-season kind of weather to folks from all parts of the world, delicious foods, and magnificent culture, you won’t feel sad for long.
Sure, the Weather in the West Is Nice, but That Might Be the Only Thing
Those planning to move with pets might feel concerned about having enough space for them to run around and feel free. However, when headed Eastbound, your animal friends will only care that you’re there for them.
The weather doesn’t bother them, and we’re sure it won’t affect you much, either. The first cold winter spent in these parts of the US may come as a shock initially, but you’ll get used to it quicker than imaginable.
The warm weather may be the only good thing about the West, anyway.
Homes Are Larger on the West Coast (Especially the San Francisco Bay Area) but Not Always Cheaper
When folks plan their relocation budget, their first question is, “Is the East Coast cheaper than the West Coast?”
Western states have larger and comfier homes, but they aren’t necessarily cheaper than Eastern states. Additionally, California has a 13% state tax, compared to New York’s 8%; CA’s income tax rate is the highest in the US, so expect to pay more for everything.
Don’t be fooled, though – New York City is pricey. San Francisco in California and NYC can go head to head with costs; we recommend choosing your accommodations wisely.
Nice homes can be found for less money in the Eastern states
The Challenges of East Coast Moving – Where on the East Coast Is Best to Live?
As mentioned, NYC gives many American (and global) cities a run for their money, but if you want to live there, start by checking out a blog or two, some roommate websites, and finding a job beforehand.
If you aren’t considering NYC, but prefer someplace quiet, check out these cities:
- Ashburn, VA
- Boston, MA
- Charleston, SC
- Charlotte, NC
- Jacksonville, FL
- Johns Creek, GA
- Manchester, CT
- Portland, ME
- Virginia Beach, VA
- Providence, RI
Boston, Charlotte, and Virginia Beach Are Very Popular Cities
Boston may be the most famous city on the list above. It’s home to many iconic landmarks, historical buildings, and pop culture stars, but it has more charms than that:
- Boston median home prices are around $420,000, and rents are about $1,400,
- It’s safer than 14% of American cities,
- Its unemployment rate is 5%.
If Boston seems too tense or expensive, why not check out North and South Carolina? These up-and-coming family locations have some of the best cities for startups. Silicon Valley is no longer the only area to look for work in the IT sector. Charlotte, NC, is another thriving location that’s good for business:
- Charlotte is more populated than Boston but much cheaper,
- The median home prices are around $180,000, and median rents are near $1,000,
- The unemployment rate is 6%.
And if you’re missing the critical piece, which is the seaside and beaches, Virginia Beach, VA, could scratch that itch for you. Ask, and you shall receive; it has long stretches of beach and plenty of outdoor activity opportunities:
- Virginia Beach is safer than a whopping 56% of American cities,
- The median home prices are around $260,000, and rents are about $1,200,
- The unemployment rate is only 3%.
Florida Might Make You Less Nostalgic For Sunshine and Beaches
Florida could be the perfect solution if you’re relocating with kids who can’t seem to say goodbye to sunshine and weekends by the ocean. It may be a little damp (the further down the coastline you go, it will,) but it’ll still offer sunny and warm days for family fun.
Jacksonville is a popular destination. Besides being the state’s most populous place, it also offers plenty of cultural events and venues. It’s a well-rounded place to settle down:
- Jacksonville has a population of around 850,000,
- It’s safer than approximately 9% of American cities,
- The median home prices are around $140,000, and rents come to about $950,
- The unemployment rate is 5%.
You’ll Have to Get Used To Smaller Accommodations
Relocating to a smaller house isn’t anyone’s idea of fun, but consider this – how much space do you really need? If you move with family, it’s obviously going to be an issue, but if it’s just you or you and your partner, do you need a second or third bedroom?
Size is important when choosing a place in these parts of the US. For example, homes in New England tend to be on the smaller side, while those in Florida are often much larger.
If you prioritize, you’ll see that smaller places can be very accommodating and that you can apply many creative storage ideas.
House Hunting Tips for the Eastern States
When looking for accommodation, remember the different regions and what each offers. For example, New England has many historic homes and villages, while the Mid-Atlantic states like Maryland and Virginia have more suburban neighborhoods.
Location is key when house hunting. You’ll want to find a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and needs; if you’re relocating for a relationship, it’ll have to be a compromise, and if looking for an area with good schools, the suburbs are a good place to start. For a more city-living experience, Boston or Washington DC are good options.
Last but not least, you’ll need to consider your budget. Houses in this region can be expensive, so ensure you know what you can afford before looking. You may need to compromise on size or location if the budget is tight, but the decision will be correct wherever you go.
Maryland and Virginia have lovely suburban, family-friendly areas
The Eastern Lifestyle Might Challenge You for the First Few Months
Relocation depression is normal, but finding ways to get out of that funk is always crucial.
You may initially get depressed due to weather changes, but when that gets out of the way, you’ll be right as rain (get it?). Since Easterners can be reserved and traditional, forming close-knit relationships will be tough. They will be friendly once you’re honest about your goals and befriend them.
The two coasts also have different culinary traditions. For Easterners, seafood is prevalent, and the region is home to iconic dishes like clam chowder and lobster rolls. Westerners, on the other hand, mostly eat Mexican food. Tacos, burritos, and enchiladas are staples of their diet.
Though the coasts have many differences, one thing unites them: a love of coffee. No matter what side of the US you’re on, you’re sure to find a great cup of coffee. Start here if you want to meet someone; offer a colleague a coffee on the go, or sit down after work.
Be bold, and remember – you don’t have anything to lose after taking such a big step and relocating.
The Tips – Don’t Forget to Look at Job Posts
If you have a job that requires relocation, there’s not much you can do but research the Eastern lifestyle and prepare for the move in any way possible. But, if you’re planning to get a job in another city and start anew there, it may be wiser to look for work before paying for a move.
Dreams come alive when you least expect them, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have some sort of contingency plan in case they do happen. Folks in movies move to other cities on a whim and end up in a dream place, but that’s not reality, not always, anyway.
We’re not saying you won’t be living life to the fullest, but if you do it on a whim and without a good backup plan, it could easily make you lose your mind and money. Which is worse? Only time can tell.
You can start by scouting websites to look for work, and the video below might help you learn where and how to start when looking for a job in another city or state.
Make Sure All Your Insurance Policies Are Updated
Some things to consider when moving cross-country aren’t always obvious, like updating one’s health insurance and attempting to find a new doctor. You should do these before the move, but it’s possible to take care of them on the spot.
Additionally, don’t forget to:
Ask Different Cross-Country Moving Companies for an Estimate
You can plan relocation for months or organize a last-minute move, but don’t forget to reach out to a cross-country moving company in both cases. This is crucial because their help is irreplaceable.
Professional movers know what it’s like to change your life abruptly and go from point A to B in a short time, but they also realize that’s no reason to panic. You, on the other hand, might. Trust us; you don’t want nerves and fear tampering with your move.
To ensure you get the ideal price for your move and avoid a relocation scam, you should ask multiple companies for a cost estimate. You can usually do that on their websites by filling out a quote form. Don’t stop at just one business; look into many others to find the right fit.
Find the Best Long-Distance Moving Services Based on the Reviews
The best way to get a reliable cross-country moving service is by checking out honestly written reviews about every business you’re interested in. If there are very few, look elsewhere; if you see only good reviews, without at least one with three or four stars out of five, they could be staging that.
Businesses that aren’t afraid to admit an occasional mistake are honest and trustworthy. Those that allow people to rate them honestly are also ready to improve and know how to listen to customers. This is your best bet for finding a good company to move with.
Professional movers will help you jumpstart your dream move
Cross-Country Movers Might Help You Move Out, but You’ll Need to Get Ready for an Adventure Alone
Relocating for the first time across the US might be nerve-wracking for many reasons, but no amount of packing services will be able to ease your mind about what’s to come. You’ve made a decision worth taking a risk for, and you should stick by it.
It will be challenging to do so, but you’ll see benefits immediately. This is an adventure you must prepare for alone. Once you’re headed Eastbound, you’ll feel positive energy taking over.
