11 Signs It’s Time to Move

Thinking of moving soon? Whether you’re sick of your job or sick of your neighbors, there are plenty of reasons why it could be time for a change. Here are 11 common signs that it’s high time to move.

#1 Things are getting tight

Look around. Are things getting a bit tight in your household? If so, it may be time to move. One of the most obvious tell-tale signs that it’s time to move is when you no longer have room for anything. Maybe you had a baby. Maybe an aging parent is moving in with you. Maybe you need an extra guest room. Or maybe you just can’t turn around without tripping over all your stuff. Whatever the reason – when space is tight, you know it’s time to move to a bigger place.

#2 You’re ready for an upgrade

If you’re ready to live in a nicer neighborhood or in a nicer home, it’s probably time for an upgrade. Many features, such as central air conditioning and heat, updated appliances, a modern kitchen, more storage space, a swimming pool, built-ins, and a larger yard may not come with the home you currently own. And while you could renovate and make some improvements, there’s a good chance that: A – those renovations will take longer than originally expected (they always do); B – it’s going to end up costing you more than the original estimate (it always does); and C – you’ll run into hiccups along the way, such as walls that are unable to come down or piping problems. Also, there might not be much you can do to change some of your home’s current features (e.g. a small backyard).

#3 Job opportunity in a new city

Moving for a job is one of the most common (and most exciting) reasons for relocating to a new city. Maybe you’re hoping to accelerate your career. Or maybe you’re moving to the city that fits your specific industry. Whatever the reason, moving for work remains a regular occurrence in America. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau , moving for a new job or a job transfer is the top job-related reason for moving.

#4 Suburban life is calling your name

After years of living in a fast-paced and congested city, many are ready to suck it up and make the move to the ‘burbs. Why? A lower cost of living, safe neighborhoods, and good schools could explain why many couples and families move to the suburbs every year. Not to mention, residents usually get more bang for their buck in terms of square footage and outdoor space, as compared to living in a city.

#5 There’s too much empty space in your home

Hearing crickets in your home? It might be time to downsize. For the empty nesters, leaving a large home filled with memories can be a hard decision. But remember – less really is more. By downsizing, decluttering and moving to a home that better suits your current needs, you’ll be able to spend more time doing what you love and less time cleaning an empty house.

#6 Safety concerns and/or bad neighbors

One of the top reasons for moving is a lack of safety in the neighborhood. If you feel that your street isn’t safe, then relocating to a new area and home may be the best way to remove yourself from a dangerous situation. Disruptive neighbors, loud dogs and environmental hazards are all good reasons to move to a new home.

#7 Your relationship changes

A change in a relationship is one of the most common reasons for relocating to a new home. If things are going well with your significant other, it may be time to move in together. If things are going sour, it may be time to move on (and out!) for good. Whatever the reason for your move, make sure you and your partner have a solid relocation plan.

#8 The commute is killing you

Live far away from work? The process of commuting – from fighting traffic to fighting for a seat – can be an extremely stressful experience. Over time, the daily grind of getting to and from work may be too much to handle. For this reason, many folks gladly pack their bags every year for the chance to live closer to work. Not only will moving closer to work grant you more sleep but it could also make you a healthier person. According to CNN, a shorter commute to work could increase your lifespan. The article reports that “there is a noticeable decline in health and well being if you have a longer commute.” How’s that for compelling?

#9 Your financial situation improves or worsens

Financial changes at home can have a big impact on where you live. For the lucky ones – those who inherit money, receive a raise or land a higher-paying job – this could mean possessing the financial resources to move to a new, nicer house. For the unlucky ones – those who lose a job or lose money somehow – this could mean having to downsize your home and lifestyle.

#10 Family commitments

Life doesn’t always go as planned. Whether it’s an aging parent in need or a partner’s job transfer, various family commitments and ties can mean making a move you never thought you’d have to make. Whatever the reason, try to stay as positive as possible about your upcoming relocation.

#11 Your kids need better schools

Choosing a new home in a neighborhood zoned for great schools is one of the top reasons thousands of families move every year. To compare schools in your area, check Moving.com’s School Ratings . Our ratings pull various school report information from our database of nearly 90,000 public and private schools serving grades kindergarten through 12th grade. The GreatSchools ratings provided by our reports should give you a handy way to assess a school at a glance.

Whatever the reason for your move, let Moving.com help you with all of the planning and preparation. From our moving cost calculator to our handy packing calculator , we’re available to meet all of your relocation needs. To find a reliable moving company in your area, check Moving.com’s network of licensed and insured movers . Good luck and happy moving!