How to Choose Where to Live: 10 Questions to Consider Before You Move

When thinking about "Where should I live?", it’s helpful to picture your life over the next few years. What matters to you now may shift as you go through different life stages.

To help you avoid regrets, here are some practical tips and considerations to help you find a place you'll love coming home to:

1. Is it close enough to the important people and places in your life?

Think about proximity to the people and places that matter most, like family, friends, work, healthcare, and daily essentials like grocery stores. Consider how much time you’re willing to spend commuting, whether it’s by car, public transportation, or other means.

2. Is it too close to things you’d rather avoid?

Think about your preferences. Do you enjoy peace and quiet, or do you thrive in busy areas? Look for things that might create noise or disrupt your daily life, like fire stations, transit stops, or busy highways.

3. What’s the job market like?

If you're moving for work or looking for a new job, research the local job market. Consider if the area is close to job centers with opportunities that fit your skills and pay a livable wage.

4. How much will it cost to live there?

Look into the cost of living, home prices, rent, and local taxes. Make sure the area fits your budget, both now and in the long term.

5. How much control do you want over your property?

Some neighborhoods, especially those with homeowners associations (HOAs), may have rules about what you can do to your home or yard. If you value control over your property, be sure to check for any restrictions.

6. How walkable is it?

Consider whether the area is pedestrian-friendly. Are there sidewalks, crosswalks, and easy access to parks, shops, and services? A walkable area can save you on transportation costs and make daily life more convenient.

7. Is it near green space?

Access to parks and green spaces can improve your quality of life. If you have pets or enjoy outdoor activities, make sure the area has nearby parks or nature trails.

8. What kind of climate can you expect?

Think about your climate preferences. Do you enjoy all four seasons, or would you rather live somewhere with mild weather year-round? Also, be aware of microclimates, which can create variations in temperature within the same city.

9. Does it meet your safety and security needs?

Consider what safety means to you. This could involve researching crime rates or looking for areas with amenities like parks where children and pets can play safely.

10. How important is a sense of community?

Think about whether you want a strong sense of community. Are there activities or groups that align with your interests? Are there social spaces like coffee shops, parks, or community centers where you can connect with others?

Additional Tips for Deciding Where to Live:

• Consider the pros and cons of your current neighborhood: Make a list of what you like and dislike about where you live now to guide your search.
• Visit the area at different times of day: Get a sense of the neighborhood’s vibe throughout the day by visiting at various times.
• Try a short-term stay: Consider renting for a short period in your desired neighborhood to see if it’s a good fit.
• Work with a local real estate expert: Real estate agents can offer valuable insights about the market and help narrow down your choices based on your needs.

Whether you're renting or buying, take the time to research and visualize yourself living in the area. Make sure it feels like the right fit before you commit.