Relocating for a job: how to compare cities
To compare cities for a move, line up four things: the job market for your field, housing cost against pay, taxes, and the life you want there. A city with more openings and a lower cost of living is not always better once taxes and commute are counted.
By Justin KullaLast updated
The comparison
- Job market: how many openings there are in your field, and which employers hire.
- Housing: typical rent or purchase price next to the pay for your role, not the national average.
- Taxes: state and local income tax, and property tax if you will own.
- Everything else: commute, schools, climate, healthcare, and closeness to family and friends.
Before you commit
- Visit for a few days, in the season that is worst for the place.
- Ask whether the employer will pay moving costs, and get it in writing.
- Check licensing rules if your work needs a state license.
- Keep a lease-length buffer: rent first, buy later.
Remote work
If the job is remote, ask whether pay depends on where you live and whether the employer can hire in your new state. Moving can change your tax obligations.
Frequently asked questions
How do I compare cost of living?
Compare housing, taxes and everyday costs for the household you actually have, not index numbers alone.
Should I move before I have a job?
It is usually safer to line up the job first, unless your field is concentrated in one place.
Do employers pay for relocation?
Some do, especially for senior roles. Ask during the offer stage.
Where can I see local job markets?
Our local market pages show openings and layoffs by place.
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