5 Overlooked Factors to Consider Before Moving to a New City

Moving to a new city can be exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. While most people consider factors such as cost of living, crime rate, and climate, there are other overlooked factors that can have a significant impact on your life in the new place. Here are five factors to consider before packing your bags and heading to a new city:

1. ISP Options

Good internet access is essential to most people today, whether for work, entertainment, or communication. However, not all internet service providers (ISPs) are created equal. Before moving, take time to research the available home internet providers in the new city. Some ISPs may not be available in the new location, or some may provide better service than others. Knowing your options beforehand can help you get the best service possible upon arrival.

2. Transit

The transportation system in a new city can make a big difference in your quality of life. Is there a comprehensive mass transit system? If not, how easy or difficult is it to drive and park your car in the city? Every urban core is different, so it pays to find out in advance. Showing up late on your first day of work because you were not familiar with the transit system is not a good start.

3. Pet Laws

If you’re a pet owner, you’ll want to know the animal ownership laws and regulations in the new city. These laws vary from city to city and state to state. Some cities may have specific regulations on owning certain breeds of dogs or exotic pets, while others may require registration and vaccination of all pets. Moving cross-country only to find out that your furry companion is an outlawed breed is not a pleasant surprise.

4. Culture Clash

Local cultures vary greatly, and not every city is for everyone. Doing some research on the prevailing cultural attitudes and ways of life in a particular region can give you clues on whether it would be an enjoyable atmosphere for you or not. Wikipedia is a great starting point for light research on cultural differences.

5. Corruption

Government corruption is ubiquitous to some degree, but some cities are more corrupt than others. Researching whether a particular city is known for public corruption or whether its elected officials have a reputation for playing on the level is a crucial factor to consider. All politics is local, and the potential effect of a city’s corrupt government on the average citizen is profound.

Bonus Factor: Signs of Success

In addition to the above factors, other signs of a city’s potential can indicate whether it is worth relocating or not. For example, high frequency of private-public partnerships, clearly identifiable “local patriots,” and close proximity to one or more research universities are some signs that a city will succeed and potentially offer more opportunities for its residents. If a city calling to you is lacking in most of these elements, it might be worth reconsidering your decision.

In conclusion, moving to a new city is a big decision that requires careful consideration of factors that may affect your quality of life in the new place. Alongside common relocation factors such as cost of living and climate, it is worth looking into things like ISP options, transit systems, pet laws, cultural attitudes, and civic integrity. By doing so, you’re more likely to make an informed decision and set yourself up for success and happiness in the new city.