Moving to a big city can be a lot like culture shock. American urban and rural areas have different charms and different difficulties. Let nothing stop you from chasing those big city lights if that’s where your dreams truly lie.
You should know from the start that life in a city, or even the suburbs, will be a little different than life in a small town. There will be far more people, more events and plenty of chances to get lost. Embrace the excitement of your move, but keep these moving tips in mind when you move from a small town to a big city.
Adjusting to Higher Cost of Living
A few short visits to potential apartments will give you an idea of the cost of living quickly. Expect rent on quality apartments to be higher than they were in small towns. There is a chance you will find apartments around the same price you pay in a small town, but they will probably be smaller. The same can be said for purchasing a home. Prices are likely to be higher in or around the city. This isn’t something that should stop you. Just be sure to keep housing prices in mind when negotiating salaries and budgeting personal finances.
You’ll need to adjust what you consider a reasonable price for many common things. While the cost of living tends to be higher in urban areas, the salaries earned also tend to be higher. Make sure any job you accept pays you accordingly. Do your research on what employees in your industry are paid on average and find a cost of living calculator to see what that salary affords you. This will be great for salary negotiations, as well.
Establishing New Connections
One of the hardest aspects of moving long distances is finding new friends. A perk of moving to a large city, is that it there are plenty of people to choose from. Look up volunteer groups and clubs in the area. There are also sites, such as Meetup.com, that provide many lists of clubs. Find something in your area of interests and be bold. Certain areas may even have clubs dedicated to people new to the area. You may find those to be some of the best groups, as everyone there will be in your same situation.
Don’t be afraid to try something new. If you just can’t seem to find a club about something you’re already interested in, try volunteering for a good cause. It’s a great way to start giving back to the community right away. Chances are you’ll meet people who have been active in the community for some time. They’ll know all the great places to visit and, even if you don’t become good friends with them, they’ll probably be able to introduce you to a large number of people. Build up your connections and you’ll find yourself with friends quickly.
Staying In Touch
You are not obligated to leave your small town memories behind. Take advantage of social media to stay in touch with your rural friends. Invite them out to visit you and introduce them to your new friends. Don’t neglect your old friends because of newly formed relationships.
Where we are born and how we grow up remains forever a part of ourselves. If most of your youth was spent in rural areas, there will be a good part of you which always remains different in the big city. You don’t need to try to change that. The great aspect about urban areas is that they are more diverse. You are part of that diversity.
Surviving the move from a small town to a big city is all about opening your mind to new ideas and people and trying new things. Do so strategically, and you’ll feel at home quickly. The truth is, moving to a large city isn’t that different from moving anywhere else. In fact, it may even be easier due to the number of clubs, events and volunteer organizations that exist in larger areas.
You don’t have to be alone as you transition to living in a new location. Contact National Van Lines for more moving tips and advice at 877-590-2810.
