California is a great place to settle down, start a family, and pursue a career in technology or entertainment. Plus, the lifestyle is different compared to the Midwest and East Coast, thanks to great weather all year round and some of the biggest celebrities in the world taking up residence in the state.
That said, if you want to move to California, you need to learn more about the area and plan accordingly, which is what we help you do in this article. Read on to learn more below.
Factors to Consider When Moving to California
When moving to California, there are several factors you need to consider. Some of these may be selling points, but others may turn you off to the idea. Take some time to evaluate them before you commit to your move.
Cost of Living
In California, the cost of living is higher than the national average. The average cost of a home in some areas, like Los Angeles, can reach up to one million dollars, so make sure you have the job and budget to afford it.
There are some cheaper areas, but you’ll really have to look around for them, especially with median rent being around $2,000 to $2,500 per month.
Job Opportunities
When it comes to job opportunities in California, there are plenty of opportunities thanks to the state’s booming technology industry. Home to Silicon Valley, California has plenty of jobs available in the tech sector and tech-adjacent industries.
As one of the biggest import centers for the United States, California also has a lot of jobs in the shipping industry. There are also plenty of remote job opportunities and trade openings available. Plus, you have California’s entertainment industry.
Climate
California has one of the most diverse climates in the country. You’ll find that in parts of Northern California, it can be cold and dry, while some of the southern portions of the state are hot and dry.
Speaking of California being dry, national disasters like wildfires are not uncommon, so make sure you’re aware of the risks. Overall, it’s a huge state with a lot of different climates, so you need to take some time to find the best place for you.
Steps to Move to California
When moving to California, there are a handful of steps you’ll need to follow because it’s not as simple as moving down the block, especially if you live several thousand miles away. We take you through the steps you need to follow below.
1. Choose the Right Area
When moving to California, the first thing you need to do is choose the right area. Consider whether or not you want to live in a big city like Los Angeles based on your budget, the space you need, and your personal preferences.
You should choose your location based on the work available to you in them, so it’s not just about the size of the space.
2. Purchase or Agree on Rent for a Property
The last thing you want to do is move to California with all of your belongings and have no place to live. For this reason, it’s a good idea to close on a house or enter a rental agreement with a landlord before you move.
While you can stay in a hotel for a little while as you wait for your things to show up, it’s not something you want to do long-term.
3. Plan Your Move
Next, it’s time to plan your move and coordinate with your friends, family, and moving companies to ensure that the process goes smoothly. You may even want to purchase plane tickets in advance if you have to fly, and determine a timeline for your move.
To make sure your move goes smoothly, make sure you work with the best interstate moving companies; we recommend the ones on this list. They’ll ensure that your belongings make it to California safely, and the best companies ensure that they stick to the timeline to avoid messing up your plans.
4. Become a California Resident
Your move is only complete once you become a California resident. In order to become one, you’ll need to update your license, register your vehicles, and even get new license plates.
Furthermore, you’ll need to update your address with the United States Postal Service and get any business licenses you may need if you’re a professional.
Enjoy a Hassle-Free Move to California
Moving to California doesn’t have to be this long and complicated process. Once you know more about California and the steps you need to follow to move there, all you need to do is prepare.
Make sure your move is properly planned, coordinated, and priced out to prevent any unwanted surprises. Then, work with the best moving companies to make sure your belongings get there safely.
