When you’re thinking about relocating, there are other factors that should be considered besides the monthly rent and security deposit (though being able to afford the apartment you choose is important). Ideally, you want to live in your apartment for a few years, and as such, you want to make sure that you’re moving into a community that accommodates your personal lifestyle and needs.
By evaluating certain factors, you can rest assured that you will find a neighborhood that you enjoy residing in. To get you started, here are a few suggestions on how to choose the best neighborhood to live in.
Location and/or Commute
Commuting to and from work on a regular basis can really add up. Whether you take public transportation or your vehicle every day, the cost of bus fare, train fare, and/or gas on the weekly basis can put a huge dent in your monthly budget. When selecting a neighborhood, make sure you select one that is financially comfortable for you to commute to and from every day. Ask yourself, how far you’re willing to commute to work each day (more than 30 minutes).
The Local Job Market
If you’ve decided to find a new job once you’ve moved, then you’ll want to consider the job market in the area. Check out the various job offerings currently posted and what the unemployment statistics are for the area. You don’t want to move to a community that does not have many businesses or jobs available as this would mean you’d have to find a job that requires a longer commute.
Related Read: What to Pack When Moving Abroad
Schools
If you have children or are planning to have children during your stay in your new apartment, then it is wise to consider the school system. Are there plenty of schools in the area? Are the schools of good quality? To find out more about the schools, you can call and schedule a meeting with the principal, or you can check with the National Center for Education Statistics. Their website has a bunch of information for parents to learn about the various school districts. There are reports, statistics, and reviews that parents can review to determine which districts are best suited for their children.
Crime Statistics
Everyone wants to live in a community where they feel safe. So it is best for you to find out about the crime rates in a particular neighborhood before making the decision to move there. While you can’t prevent all bad things from happening, a community with high rates of murders and robberies might not be the location you’re looking for.
Attractions, Entertainment, Shopping
Wherever you end up moving to, you don’t want to be on a deserted island (unless, of course, that’s your thing). Chances are you want to be close to the things you need the most. From the shopping centers to the parks and main attractions, you probably want to move to a community that matches your lifestyle.
Therefore, when searching for an apartment to move into, check out development websites to find out what attractions are closest to you. If you can’t find the information on their website, you can also inquire with the property management company or landlord to determine what is in the area.
Finding The Perfect Neighborhood
Finding the perfect neighborhood to live in will greatly depend upon your personal preferences. However, the above factors are all very important and should be considered as you begin shopping for the best apartment.
Keep each of these factors in mind, and feel free to add a few more considerations of your own that you find important. With any luck, you’ll soon be living in a wonderful community that caters to each and every one of your needs.
