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It has been awhile since my last post. My life has been so insanely busy, but I have come here to talk about something that is, hopefully soon, relevant to my life. I want to talk to you about making a cross-country move for a job, while you are unable to save for that move.
There are so many things that go into moving so far away, but I think the most important thing is that I am dead set on starting my life half-way across the country.
Other important things:
- I am moving for my mental health. Partly. There are so many things I want out of life, and I am not going to get them while I am here. I want to be out in the world, seeing and experiencing new things.
- I want to live near mountains and trees. I want to get away from the winters where I live, because they are really just straight-up awful. I want better weather. More variety in the landscape. Oceans and rivers and streams and bays. Little waterfalls in the mountains.
- While I do have family nearby, the person I am closest to in my family is a good 3-hours drive away, so I really only see her maybe a couple times a year. My point is, I am used to being far away from my family and I know that I am capable of visiting them, regardless of the distance.
Like most of America, I don’t make much, and I have credit card debt. I believe that my mental health is much more important than my money, and my money is only a tool I can use to better my mental health. So, if you are like the many Americans with little ability to save, and you are planning a cross-country move, please read more of this article.
First and foremost, make a plan.
Make sure to have all of the details. Ambiguity is not your friend in a cross-country move. I am sure it could be done without some of the details, but that would not be ideal. Here are some questions to answer for yourself when planning your cross-country move.
- How much will you be making?
- What is the cost of living where you are going, compared to where you currently are?
- Will you have more, or less, dependents (like pets, kids becoming legal adults, etc.)?
- Will it be difficult for you to make living arrangements? Have you gotten moving quotes?
- How are you going to get there?
- How long will it take you to get there?
- Are you moving your things on your own, with help from family, or will you need to hire help?
- Do you know anyone there?
- Are you moving with anyone?
I am sure there can be so many more questions based on your individual circumstances. You just want to make sure to have all of the facts as you embark on your journey.
So, using my impending cross-country move (hopefully) as an example:
- How much will you be making?
- Around $40k to $50k
- What is the cost of living where you are going, compared to where you currently are?
- Mostly similar, except for the largest cities in the area.
- Are you moving with anyone?
- Yes, my husband.
- Will you have more, or less, dependents (like pets, kids becoming legal adults, etc.)?
- No change: I have three cats.
- Will it be difficult for you to make living arrangements?
- No, I am confident in my ability to find an apartment.
- Have you gotten moving quotes?
- I did a couple of months ago, but those have very likely changed so I will get more quotes after I decide my method of moving.
- How are you going to get there?
- I will drive there.
- How long will it take you to get there?
- Around three days.
- Are you moving your things on your own, with help from family, or will you need to hire help?
- I will pack and move without family or professional help.
- Are you concerned about any of the items you will be moving?
- Yes – my husband and I need to keep our three cats safe and get both of our vehicles there at the lowest possible cost.
- Do you know anyone there?
- My husband knows someone in one of the states we are looking at moving to, and that is good enough for me. I am quite independent.
Final Advice For Your Cross-Country Move
Moving cross-country is a significant decision, especially when you’re unable to save much for the transition. However, taking the time to carefully plan and prepare for this move can make all the difference. I encourage you to make your own list of questions and answers. After you have all of your answers, you can lay out a complete plan for your move.
Remember, this cross-country move is about more than just logistics—it’s about prioritizing your mental health and well-being. While financial constraints can be challenging, your happiness and mental clarity are invaluable. Embrace the excitement of starting fresh in a place that aligns with your goals and desires. With a solid plan in place, you can confidently take this step towards a life that feels more fulfilling and true to who you are.