Does it make sense to relocate for a job in tech? For many workers, the answer is yes. It’s no longer necessary to move to Silicon Valley or another technology hub to find a developer or data analyst job, however. Companies in all industries and all geographic locations are looking for employees with in-demand tech skills, which means lots of opportunities are available for Revature associates.
You might ask, what about remote work? After all, many tech employees worked from home even before COVID-19. While many companies do continue to allow employees to work fully remotely, many are asking their employees to return to the office. Some 33% of CEOs plan to adopt a hybrid work model (a combination of in-office and remote work) in 2022, according to Chief Executive magazine.
So, not only is relocating for a job worth it, it might be necessary. Fortunately, relocation comes with plenty of advantages, as well as a few things to watch out for.
Benefits of Relocation
Moving for a tech job can be a challenging proposition. Will leaving your hometown, friends, or family be difficult? What if you have a spouse or children? How will they adapt? How expensive is it to pull up stakes and move to a new city? All of these are questions that employees consider when making the life-changing decision of whether or not to relocate.
However, the many benefits of relocation can outweigh its drawbacks.
Career Advantages
Relocating for a job usually means starting or advancing in a career. It is an opportunity for you to get real work experience or take on new responsibilities. It also showcases your ability to adapt to new situations and environments. This openness and flexibility is a career asset and can lead to a more satisfying role with the company. In addition, relocating allows you to network with peers and supervisors in person, which can help you grow in your career.
Salary and Earnings
Salary and lifetime earnings can be significantly impacted by the decision to relocate. If the cost of living is higher in the new city, your salary may increase to compensate for that. This can have an effect on your raises and retirement contributions as well. Conversely, moving to a city with a lower cost of living can allow you to increase your savings and have more disposable income.
A New Start
A change is as good as a rest, the old saying goes. Relocating for a new job can help you get out of a routine that isn’t working for you. Exploring new venues and doing new things can be fun. If you’re a younger employee who is just starting your career, it’s a chance to spread your wings and become more self-reliant.
A Broader Social Circle
Moving to a new city opens the door to making new friends, whether among work colleagues or by joining a sports team, a club, or another activity. It doesn’t mean leaving old friends behind, either. Friends can visit, and you can show them around your new hometown.
Downsides of Relocation
You may have a number of reasons for asking “Is relocating for work worth it?” Whether you are just starting out or you have a family household, moving can be expensive and difficult. Packing, finding a place to rent or a home to buy, hiring movers, and settling in — it’s a lot.
Downsides of relocation include the following.
Relocation Expenses
Moving is costly and time-consuming, with tasks ranging from hiring an interstate moving company to paying deposits and fees for a new apartment or home. However, many employers pay a moving or temporary housing allowance, making this transition easier for individuals and families.
Packing and Unpacking
Americans have a lot of stuff. According to statistics compiled by self-storage industry site SpareFoot, 10.6% of households rent a self-storage facility. Hiring a good moving company can help, as they perform much of the heavy lifting, packing, and unpacking. Decluttering is a smart first step before relocating.
Pulling Up Roots
No matter how long you’ve lived in a city or town, leaving home can be an emotional experience. Partners and children may not want to leave their job, school, or friends, and adjusting to a new community can take time. The decision to relocate can be a tough one for families and individuals. However, adventurous workers looking to make a major change can benefit greatly from taking the relocation plunge.
Tips and Resources for Relocating for Work
Congratulations! You got the job. Now that you’ve decided that relocating for work is worth it, it’s time to get ready for the move. While moving is complicated, a successful relocation is achievable. Being prepared can help make the process easier.
The following are tips and resources for a smoother move:
Use a Cost-of-Living Calculator
Compare expenses between your current location and your new town with a cost-of-living calculator. Learn how far your salary will go to cover rent, gas, groceries, utilities, and other monthly expenses. Knowing before you go will help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
Research Real Estate and Neighborhoods
Whether you will be renting or buying, research the real estate market in your new hometown. Call a realtor or apartment management company for details, or look online at real estate or apartment websites. If a pre-move visit is possible, take the time to look at prospective housing options in person. Calculate your commute. Connect with potential neighbors on social media to get additional information about the city or town.
Organize Your Move
Getting organized can be a lifesaver when moving. Ways to be organized include:
- Write checklists
- Order packing materials
- Hire movers
- Contact utilities in the old and new places
- Pack smart using wardrobe boxes and garment bags
- Label boxes
New Career, New Opportunity: Moving Up With Revature
Revature associates gain the tech training they need to succeed in a new career, wherever it takes them, and get paid to learn in the process. Learn more about how Revature places its associates with partners all around the country and helps associates navigate the costs and complexities of relocating. If you’re looking for a change, see what your next move can be with Revature.
Recommended Readings:
Technology Careers: Outlook, Paths, and FAQs
My Revature Story: Future-Proof Skills
How to Compete for Entry-Level Jobs in Software Development
Sources:
Bankrate, “Cost of Living Comparison Calculator”
Chief Executive, “In Poll, Majority of CEOs Say Hybrid Work Is Here to Stay for 2022. Full Virtual? Not So Much”
Forbes, “15 Moving Tips and Tricks for a Faster, Easier and Less Stressful Move”
Indeed, “How to Decide Whether You Should Move for a Job”
My Moving Reviews, “Pros and Cons of Moving for a Job”
Rocket Mortgage, “7 Tips for Successfully Relocating for Work”
SpareFoot, U.S. Self-Storage Industry Statistics
This Old House, “7 Best Interstate Moving Companies (2022)”