When it comes to moving, some people relocate for a new job, to attend college, or just to be closer to family and friends. Others choose to move for more opportunities or for a better lifestyle fit. What important factors should you consider before packing up your apartment and your life for a big move?
1) Attractions
What attractions are of interest to you? If you’re a foodie, you may desire to live in a city that has an abundance of unique restaurants. If you’re into sports, look for an apartment for rent in a city with professional sports teams, such as San Diego, CA, home of the Chargers football team. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you might find that an apartment in a city with plenty of recreational areas fits your lifestyle!
2) Education
Whether you’re looking to further your education, or if you’re just thinking about your children’s future, it’s always important to research a city’s educational options before searching for an apartment for rent. Take a look at the public school system and see how local schools are performing. A city that has a good selection of higher education options typically has more college graduates and better employment opportunities, such as Raleigh, NC, which is home to ten universities.
3) Economy
In today’s economy, it’s more important than ever to be sure that any move you make is a smart one! Be sure to research the job market in a city before finding an apartment there, as the unemployment rate is higher in some locations than others. Austin, TX has a below-average unemployment rate, and small businesses are growing rapidly, creating an abundance of new jobs.
4) Crime
It’s true: no one wants to live in or near a crime-ridden area. If you’re looking for the safest city around, look no further than Scottsdale, AZ, whose crime rate is significantly lower than that of many US cities. However, be sure to take a close look at the numbers: you might find a gem of a neighborhood within a city whose crime rate is skewed higher due to a small segment of the population across town.
Now that you have a list of factors to consider, you can begin researching cities to find an apartment for rent in the one that best suits you. ForRent.com has created a helpful infographic sharing more highlights of the top four cities that were mentioned in this article.
When you’re ready to begin apartment hunting, ForRent.com is a great way to discover and explore your next apartment. Be sure to check out these tips to make your move a smooth transition. Once you’ve unpacked, get inspired with décor ideas for your new apartment!