Upping sticks and setting sail for a faraway land might seem like a distant dream to most of us. But relocation is surprisingly common. Recent data from the Office for National Statistics shows that 385,000 people left the UK in the year ending March 2019, all with the intention of staying away for at least 12 months or more.
If you’re thinking about making a move yourself, the opportunities are endless. But it’s not a decision you should take lightly. As well as the positives that attracted you to your destination of choice in the first place, there are likely to be a few differences to get used to.
Here are four factors to think about before you relocate.
Current relationships
Moving away from home could have dramatic effects on those around you. If you’re asking your family to come with you, you’ll be taking your kids out of school and away from their friends, and potentially asking your partner to find new work. If they share your enthusiasm, it’ll make your transition a lot easier.
Your immediate family might not be the only ones that rely on you, either. Are you prepared to miss your grandkids growing up? Do you have grandparents that need your support?
Employment opportunities
If you’re relocating for work, then this one is easy. If your move is for other reasons however, it’s a good idea to research the job market in the area you’re heading to. The UK’s employment opportunities are relatively high in comparison to some parts of the world. So don’t just assume you’ll be able to pick up where you left off.
You may be able to work remotely if you’re freelance, or if your current workplace is open to flexible working.
Cost factors
The cost of living and average salaries can vary widely even within parts of the same country. While it could go the other way, a huge salary jump may not look as attractive when combined with extortionate rent, for example.
Get your finances in order before you go, including sorting out your current account and arranging any credit card applications. You may need to be prepared to adjust your spending habits a little, too, depending on where you are heading to and what you are planning on doing.
Long-term goals
Do you have long-term plans that lay elsewhere? If you’re relocating with your family, how soon will they want to move on to a new stage of their lives, like attending university?
Considering how permanent you intend to make your relocation could influence the kind of decisions you make while you get set up there – such as whether to buy or rent.
Are you all set? As long as you’ve considered these four factors, a relocation could be just what you’re looking for.
