Your guide to a new job in a new city

Here are some tips for managing this transition and navigating your new role to help set you up for success:

1. Research the city and neighbourhoods

Before you accept the offer and want to move, research the city and neighbourhoods surrounding your new place of work or where you might want to live. Remember that living in a city is different from visiting it.

What to look for when researching a city for relocation:  

• Cost of living: Understand the expenses associated with living in the city. Knowing what your essential expenses are and how they will fit into your budget is crucial for managing your money, maintaining your lifestyle and making the right rental, location and spending choices.  
• Commute times: Consider the time and money it takes to travel to and from work.
• Proximity to amenities: Check the distance to grocery stores, restaurants, and other essential services, as well as the types of amenities.
• Safety and community: Evaluate the safety and community aspects of different neighbourhoods.
• Cultural and recreational activities: Look for activities and events that align with your interests.

2. Understand the costs of moving

Before you pack your bags for an exciting new job opportunity, hit the pause button and crunch some numbers. Understanding the full financial picture is crucial for a smooth transition. That means factoring in not just your potential new salary, but also the often-overlooked costs of relocation.

From moving expenses and potential temporary housing to deposits for utilities and transportation costs, these expenses can add up quickly and have a big impact on your budget.

What you might need to pay for:  

• Cost of moving: Hiring movers, renting a truck, or shipping your belongings.
• Temporary accommodation: Short-term housing while you search for a permanent residence.  
• Deposits and initial rent: Upfront costs for securing a new place to live.  
• Utility setup: Fees for setting up electricity, water, and other utilities.  
• Transportation: Costs associated with traveling to your new city.

3. Get house hunting early

Finding the perfect home in a new city can be a thrilling but challenging part of relocating. Competition, limited options, and unfamiliar neighbourhoods can make the search daunting.

If possible, visit the city ahead of time to view potential apartments or houses in person as things might look different from online images and you’ll be able to get a better feel for the location.

By researching thoroughly, you’ll have a better understanding of the local housing market, rental rates and what quirks you can expect from these neighbourhoods. By starting early, you also help avoid the added stress on top of preparing for your new job.

4. Get socially connected

Work on building a personal and professional network before and when you get there. Meeting new people will help you settle in faster and help with those homesick days. It will also help make you feel more comfortable and confident, so be open and flexible to try new things and step out of your comfort zone.

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_{Disclaimer: This article is solely intended for information. It does not constitute financial, tax or investment advice or recommendation. Please speak to a financial advisor or registered financial professional before making any financial decision(s).}

_{Standard Bank, its subsidiaries or holding company, or any subsidiary of the holding company and all of its subsidiaries make no warranties or representations (implied or otherwise) as to the accuracy, completeness or fitness for purpose of the information provided in this article or that it is free from errors or omissions.}