Flexibility and mobility have become common traits of today’s American population, and we sure do love moving. Or rather, we no longer feel confined by state limits and, when the need arises, we can easily relocate without much fuss. According to the U. S. Census Bureau, about 16.8 million people moved into a different county within a year in the U.S., between 2007 and 2011, with the most common county-to-county moves being from Los Angeles to San Bernardino, California (41,764 people) and Los Angeles to Orange, California (an estimated 40,764).
Among all the nation’s counties, Maricopa (which includes the city of Phoenix, pictured) gained movers from the largest group of counties (957). Maricopa also lost movers to the largest number of counties (1,190).
Apartments for rent in Chicago, Miami, Detroit, Phoenix, New York and Baltimore metros have been the focus of domestic movers. The Los Angeles and Riverside-San Bernardino metro areas are among the top moving destinations, with potential renters eyeing Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta apartments. When including movements from abroad, one of the five largest flows was the 35,209 who moved from Asia to Los Angeles County, California, Census data shows.
To make moving easier, the Census Bureau has introduced a new app called dwellr which can help people on-the-go gain access to key demographic, socio-economic and housing statistics for thousands of places across the country. Powered by American Community Survey statistics, dwellr can pull up a list of U.S. locations that matches users’ preferences for such variables as city size, geographic region, job type and income.
Whether following the jobs trail, joining a life partner, or simply pursuing lifestyle dreams, moving has become a natural step in one’s journey through life. In case you’re getting ready to change residences yourself, we’ve prepared a few tips to help you get started. Moving means that you’ll be uprooting your life entirely which makes it a delicate matter. Rather than looking at it like as a dreaded chore, you can plan the whole process ahead and turn it into a happy memory.
Start by compiling a checklist of actions you need to complete before moving. Plan on what to take and buy packing supplies such as moving boxes, packing paper, tape, etc. To make things right, it would be better if you could start packing at least 3 to 5 weeks in advance. Don’t forget to label boxes on the top and sides, and mark as “fragile” when required.
Go over important documents, such as contracts, leases and payment, update details or set up end-of-service dates with services providers as required. There are certain contracts that take care of themselves, even if you change residences. Your renter’s insurance policy for example remains in force if you move to a new location within the same state. You just have to inform your insurer of the move and provide them with the new address location.
Then, make sure you re-direct subscriptions to your new address and schedule your utility turn-ons, including water, power, gas, trash, cable and internet.
Now that you’re all packed and ready to go, you may rejoice as you’ve made it. You’ve stepped into a new chapter of your life.
