If you’re looking to relocate from a big city to the suburbs, you should keep a few things in mind. One of the most important factors might be to choose a pedestrian-friendly state with plenty of outdoor activities and options for transportation.
It’s crucial to take your time when planning the move because it’s a huge transition. Here are some tips to help make the process as smooth as possible.
#1 – Consider Your Commute Time
When you’re used to living in a city, adjusting to a longer commute can be tough. If you’re moving for work, make sure you factor in the extra time it will take to get to and from the office.
You may also want to look for a community that’s close to public transportation so you have the option to take the train or bus if traffic is bad.
#2 – Research the Schools in the Area
If you have kids or are planning on starting a family, it’s important to find a suburb with good schools. You can use sites like GreatSchools.org to get an idea of what the educational options are like in different areas.
It’s also worth talking to other parents in the area to get their opinions on the schools. They’ll be able to tell you what they like and don’t like about the district and whether they would recommend it.
Then you can focus on getting your kids prepared for the move and excited for the new school year and location.
#3 – Make a List of Things You’ll Miss and Look Forward To
Making a list will help you to be realistic about the move and understand what kinds of things you’ll need to adjust to. For example, if you’re used to being able to walk to everything, you’ll need to find a suburb that has plenty of sidewalks and is safe for pedestrians.
On the other hand, if you’re looking forward to more space and having a backyard, you’ll want to find a suburb that has single-family homes.
Making a move from a city to a suburb can be a big adjustment, but it’s also an exciting time. With a little planning and research, you can find the perfect place for your family.
#4 – Research to Find Out What the Community Is Like
Before you decide to move to a new community, it’s important to take the time to learn about what that community has to offer. This often involves doing research online, visiting the town or city in person, and talking to realtors and people who are already living there.
One of the best ways to get an idea of the community is by joining local Facebook groups or connecting with other residents on social media.
This can give you a sense of what issues are important to locals, which events and activities are popular in your new town, and how people interact with each other on a day-to-day basis.
Ultimately, taking the time to learn about your new community will help you feel more comfortable and at ease when you finally make a move.
#5 – Drive Around the Neighborhood During Different Times of Day
If you want to get a sense of how busy your neighborhood is, taking a drive around the area at different times of the day can be a great idea.
This will give you some insight into things like:
- How foot traffic is at different times. That way, you can plan your schedule accordingly.
- Whether you prefer being more active in the morning or afternoon. You might need to adjust your workout routine to be more convenient for you.
- Whether your job relies on meeting people or commuting to different locations. This knowledge can be useful when planning out your daily activities.
So take some time to go out and explore during various periods throughout the day, and you’ll gain a much better understanding of what it’s like to live in such a bustling community.
#6 – Talk to People Who Live in the Suburbs
Whether it’s talking to your neighbors at the local park or attending one of the many community events, there are many opportunities for you to learn from others about what life is like in the suburbs.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, just ask anyone who lives in a suburban neighborhood, and they will tell you all about their favorite nearby parks, restaurants, and shops.
They can also offer tips on everything from where to find good local schools to how to deal with traffic and noise daily.
In short, by talking with people who call the suburbs home, you can get an authentic sense of what this part of town has to offer.
So if you’re curious about what the suburb experience is like, don’t hesitate to reach out and start chatting with those who live there. You won’t be disappointed.
#7 – Find a Pedestrian-Friendly State
One important consideration is the state’s pedestrian friendliness. After all, walking is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air.
Here are three states that are particularly pedestrian-friendly:
Massachusetts
Massachusetts has a long history of pedestrian-friendly policies and infrastructure. In fact, the state was one of the first to create a statewide network of bike paths and greenways.
And it’s not just cities like Boston that are pedestrian-friendly: Even small towns often have well-maintained sidewalks and crosswalks.
Oregon
Like Massachusetts, Oregon has a strong commitment to pedestrian safety and accessibility. In addition to maintaining an extensive system of sidewalks and crosswalks, the state also requires all new developments to include pedestrian infrastructure.
Washington
Washington is another state with a history of pedestrian-friendly policies.
The state has invested heavily in sidewalk construction and maintenance, and all cities and counties must have comprehensive plans for pedestrian access. These plans must be updated every five years, ensuring that Washington remains one of the most pedestrian-friendly states in the country.
Ready to make the move?
Relocating to the suburbs can be a great decision, especially if you take the time to do your research. There are many reasons why now is the perfect time to move out of the city.
By considering your commute time, schools in the area, and what you won’t miss about city living — especially if you’re moving away from one of the deadliest U.S. cities for pedestrians — you can help to make the transition smoother.
Luke Williams writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, AutoInsurance.org. His passions include best practices for insurance and adjusting to new relocations.
