Cities in Alabama that will pay you to move

Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield and Tuscumbia

If you’re a remote worker making $52,000 or more per year,  can relocate within 6 months of being selected, and you’re 18 or older and eligible to work in the United States – you may qualify for $10,000 under the Remote Shoals program. The Shoals area includes the cities of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield and Tuscumbia. You’re a mere 2-hour drive to Birmingham, Nashville, or Memphis, and 1-hour flight to Charlotte via Contour Airlines. The real estate is affordable (median housing price of $204,917) and the property taxes and cost of living is low. It’s a diverse area with a rich musical, cultural, and creative heritage. 

Cities in Alaska that will pay you to move

State-wide

Move anywhere in the state, enjoy your first year as a resident and apply for Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend. Typical payout is around $1,600 (it varies, based on the state’s yearly revenue – in 2022 it was $3,284). You qualify for payments each year that you live in the state. And you’ll also benefit from some of the lowest tax rates of any state, amazing scenery, open spaces and the adventure of living in America’s last frontier.

Cities in Arizona that will pay you to move

Tucson

If you’re a remote worker, the Remote Tucson program offers perks such as $1000 in support to help with your relocation costs. You’re also eligible for a slew of freebies and discounts on services ranging from temporary housing, fast internet, meals, social clubs and free coworking spaces. To qualify you need to be able to move to Tucson within 6 months of being accepted, have full-time remote employment outside Tucson and Pima County, be 18+ years old and eligible to work in the U.S, and have an income of $65k or more. 

Cities in Arkansas that will pay you to move 

Bentonville, Fayetteville, Springdale, and Lowell

Heads up, techies! Applications for the Northwest Arkansas Council’s Life Works Here program are no longer being accepted, but the Council is still interested in attracting STEM talent to the area. It’s worth touching base with them to see what’s available if you make the move. Northwest Arkansas includes the cities of Bentonville, Fayetteville, Springdale, and Lowell.

Cities in California that will pay you to move 

There are no current “get paid to move here” offers for remote workers or other individuals, but California does offer tax incentives for businesses who want to relocate. See what you might qualify for here.

Cities in Colorado that will pay you to move

State-wide

Colorado seems to really want you (and everyone else) to move to the state. There are dozens of homeownership assistance programs offering loan programs, grants, and second mortgage loans for down payment/and or closing cost assistance. A good place to start looking is the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority. One offer that first-time buyers can qualify for is 4% of your first mortgage, so long as you meet income requirements. But check the site to see if you are eligible for other offers as well. 

Cities in Connecticut that will pay you to move

New Haven

New Haven is about as cozy-picturesque as a city can get, and the local government is kind enough to help you move there. Their Livable City program offers up to $10,000 for first time home owners, and zero interest forgivable loans that can be used for: down payment, closing cost or the combination of both down payment and closing cost. There are various stipulations, and additional benefits for those who qualify, so spend some time reviewing the offer before you start packing. This is a great offer for new college graduates!

Cities in Delaware that will pay you to move

New Castle County

The First State boasts a super-low cost of living, no sales tax, and some of the prettiest, most pristine beaches on the east coast. New Castle County offers some great relocation incentives, you may want to check out their Neighborhood Stabilization Program which offers affordable homes for sale throughout the county. Each home has been extensively rehabilitated and updated with various green technology improvements to provide new owners with long-term affordability. There’s also a First Time Homebuyer Program which provides loans between $1,000 and $5,000 at a low rate of 3% for the purchase of any home under $202,900. See what you might qualify for here. 

Cities in Florida that will pay you to move

Florida is having no problem convincing people to move to the state, so there are currently no incentives on offer. But if you’re one of the many who want to relocate to the Sunshine State, you won’t have to pay state or city income tax, which can save you a bundle. Florida is also known as a business-friendly state, if you are a business owner that will create jobs in the state it’s worth checking with the appropriate Chamber of Commerce and local city government to see if there are any financial benefits for relocating. 

Cities in Georgia that will pay you to move

During the height of the pandemic the state was offering some peachy deals for remote workers in tech fields, but searching for those opportunities today brings you to blank web pages. Best bet for those craving southern charm in cities like Savannah is to comb through the incentives on the Savannah Economic Development Authority website and see if you can find a match for your skill set/business.

Cities in Hawaii that will pay you to move

Oahu

This isn’t a cash-for-relocation deal, but we think it’s a hugely valuable offering so we’re putting it on this list. The Hawaii Talent Onboarding Program (HITOP) is a 6-week, place-based acculturation program, designed to help people learn the Aloha spirit. Through cultural education, community service and networking, you get to learn about Hawaii, build your ability to work effectively in the community, meet people, and make connections. If you want to find your place in the islands, check this out. 

Idaho

Nothing here!

Cities in Illinois that will pay you to move

Matoon

Like bagels? You may want to move to Matoon, IL., the “Bagel Capital of the World” and home to Bagelfest. The city’s relocation package for remote workers offers $5,000 cash towards moving expenses, $500 in restaurant vouchers, free memberships to coworking and fitness spaces, and a slew of gift cards for shopping and services. Altogether, it amounts to about $12,000. Matoon is a small city that feels more like a close-knit town, with good schools and greenspaces. 

Cities in Indiana that will pay you to move

West Lafayette

Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana is building a first-of-its kind remote working community on campus. Ideal for engineers, entrepreneurs, builders, creatives and innovators who have the flexibility to work anywhere and want to live and work among the brightest minds on the university’s campus. Benefits if you relocate include $5,000 stipend, networking events, professional development programming, and entrepreneurial services through the Foundry.

Discounts on co-working spaces, discounts on housing, access to University events, library and other perks plus more. To see if you qualify, check the details here. 

Cities in Iowa that will pay you to move

Newton

This one is for home buyers. Newton, Iowa offers $10,000 cash to new home buyers and builders through its Housing Initiative, plus a “welcome” package worth over $3,000. To qualify, you’d need to purchase a new single-family home construction worth more than $190,000 (the median price for a home in Newton $134K, according to Redfin). From your new home in Newton, it’s only a 20 minute drive to Des Moines, Iowa’s capital city.

Cities in Kansas that will pay you to move

Topeka

Choose Topeka for your new home and you might get $15,000 in benefits. The Choose Topeka program is a Relocation Incentive plan that is intended to encourage employers to move staff to Shawnee County, Kansas. There’s also a special offer for military service members. This is a place that has it’s priorities right – Topeka is “caffeinated and motivated,” has plenty of music festivals, and is accredited as a great place for pets to live. 

Cities in Kentucky that will pay you to move

Owensboro

Remote workers: transplant your roots to Owensboro, and you could qualify for a $5,000 stipend to cover your relocation expenses, free memberships for the local fitness center and botanical garden, free tickets to the area’s best cultural events and other perks. If you are employed full-time in a remote position, or are self-employed and able to bring your business anywhere, fill out the form and see if you qualify. If you’re a bluegrass music fan, this is the offer you’ve been waiting for!

Cities in Louisiana that will pay you to move

Ruston

Located in North Louisiana, Ruston is a lively college-town (he area is home to both Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University), with a 22-block historic downtown district and a thriving arts culture. If you’re a remote worker, you could qualify for a $10,000 grant awarded over a 3-year period, discounted University athletic events, and the support of a community liaison to assist with move-in and community connections. Check out your eligibility status and get the details here.

Cities in Maine that will pay you to move

State-wide

From paying off college loans to honoring veterans for their service, Maine has some terrific offers for folks who want to move to the state; they’ve even dedicated a whole website to them. There’s also a “highly vetted” job board for temporary and permanent positions. 

Cities in Maryland that will pay you to move

Baltimore

Baltimore is working really hard to help make buying a house easier. They’ll take you on a Trolley Tour of the city, provide workshops with tips on how to manage the whole process, and connect you with lenders, real estate agents, neighborhood associations, community organizations … and many other local resources. After all that, you can apply for the $5,000 Buying Into Baltimore down payment and closing cost assistance incentive. Baltimore boasts a low cost of living, a vibrant food scene, and a funky culture unique to the city. 

Cities in Massachusetts that will pay you to move

Your best bet for finding “pay me to move here” perks in Boston is the Built In Boston website, which lists companies that are looking to hire – we’ve filtered it to show the companies that offer relocation assistance. There are currently no other relocation packages in Massachusetts.

Cities in Michigan that will pay you to move 

NONE: filler copy can be deleted – Southwest Michigan was offering people $15,000 in incentives to move to a beautiful coastal community only 90 miles from Chicago. Sadly, they aren’t accepting new applicants right now. But keep an eye on the Move to Michigan website for further updates, and check the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for opportunities that may help you relocate now. 

Cities in Minnesota that will pay you to move

Bemidji and Claremont

Bemidji, legendary home of Paul Bunyan and the headwaters of the Mississippi River has a couple of relocation offers for remote workers and home buyers, which you can checkout right here. The remote worker package includes internet service, co-working space, chamber of commerce membership, and a community concierge. Or, if really small town living is your thing, join the 660-person community of Claremont,and get a free lot for single-family home development. The town’s premiere community event, Hogfest, features street dances, sports tournaments, water wars, a pancake breakfast, a tractor pull, and of course, a pig roast.

Cities in Mississippi that will pay you to move

Nachez

Once known for attracting the rowdiest river travelers, Nachez is now the oldest town on the Mississippi river and sits at the heart of the Americana Music Triangle (road trip fans, Google it). Shift South, a remote worker incentive program, encourages folks to make the city their new home. Be aware that you’ll need to purchase property in Natchez with a minimum value of $150,000.00 to be eligible for the $2,500.00 reimbursement for relocation expenses and $300.00 a month for one year.

Cities in Missouri that will pay you to move

Poplar Bluff

Midway between St. Louis, Missouri, and Memphis, Tennessee, Poplar Bluff is about as scenic as it gets and serves as a regional hub for education, health care, banking, retail and manufacturing. On offer: a package that totals up to about $11,000 in relocation reimbursements ($5000), free services and gift cards to welcome you to the community. While you’re at it, check out the list of resources here.

Cities in Montana that will pay you to move

Sadly, for those longing to live in Big Sky Country, there are no specific “pay me to move to your state” offers currently available in Montana. But check out the state’s Come Home Montana site, and reach out for connections and info – where there’s a will, there’s a way. 

Cities in Nebraska that will pay you to move

Curtis

Otherwise known as “Nebraska’s Easter City,” Curtis is offering free land and cash incentives to young families who want to live in a small town (less than 10,000 residents) with an excellent golf course and a renowned Palm Sunday pageant. Check out the details at the town’s website.

Cities in Nevada that will pay you to move

Las Vegas

Bet you want to move to Las Vegas! While they don’t offer a relocation package (no city in Nevada does) you can get help launching your great idea – if the idea benefits people, communities and/or the city. Get the details about pilot programs and other STEM-centric projects on the Innovate Vegas website. 

Cities in New Hampshire that will pay you to move

Live Free or Die is the state motto, and so it makes sense that they’re unwilling to pay people to move there.

New Jersey

Nothing we found for the garden state.

New Mexico

Nope! Nothing here.

Cities in New York that will pay you to move 

Rochester and Niagara Falls

New York’s fourth-largest city, and (surprise!) is the country’s #2 best wine regions. The Greater ROC Remote offers remote workers up to $19,000 in incentives just for moving to the region. You need to be an 18+ year old full-time remote worker who currently lives 300+ miles from downtown Rochester, eligible to work in the U.S. and able to relocate to Greater Rochester within 6 months of being accepted by the program. And the City of Niagara Falls will pay $3,492 per year and up to $6,984 for two years towards your student loans. Requirements for eligibility include good credit and you’ll have to live in one of their “targeted neighborhoods.” 

Cities in North Carolina that will pay you to move

Asheville

Entrepreneurs, this one’s for you. Asheville has a terrific collection of resources for startups, including microloans, a local angel investors fund, free access to mentorships, pitch opportunities, and much more. Spend some time exploring the options on Venture Asheville. 

Cities in North Dakota that will pay you to move

Across the state

The “Peace Garden State” is taking a personalized approach to encourage you to move there. Their Relocation Help Desk aims to give future North Dakotans a direct line to everything you need to make your move – jobs, community connections, local advice, etc. Get in touch and see what support/perks are available to you.

Cities in Ohio that will pay you to move

Hamilton

If you graduated within the past seven years from a STEAM program (science, technology, engineering, the arts, or mathematics), Hamilton, Ohio wants you. Just north of Cincinnati, Hamilton’s Talent Attraction Program (TAP) scholarship offers STEAM grads $300 per month, up to a maximum of $10,000.

Cities in Oklahoma that will pay you to move

Tulsa

Tulsa Remote wants to enhance its workforce community by bringing “diverse, bright and driven individuals to the city for community building, collaboration and networking.” Sounds great, right? And they’ll help you move with $10,000 and other excellent perks to help you settle in and make friends fast. You need to be able to move to Tulsa within the next 12 months, have full-time remote employment or are self-employed outside of Oklahoma, be 18+ years old and eligible to work in the United States. Tulsa is an amazingly livable small city, with big city amenities and real heart. Definitely worth checking out if you meet the requirements. 

Cities in Oregon that will pay you to move

Ontario

Ontario is a small, rural town on the Oregon Trail, bordering Idaho, that’s dubbed itself the “Gateway to Adventure.” They have big plans to revitalize the town. They’ll give you $10,000 in cash to build a new house. Check out their housing incentive program, and the home must be built within 24 months of applying in order to qualify. Gotta love a town that has an Annual Tater Tot Festival!

Pennsylvania 

We couldn’t find anything for Pennsylvania.

Cities in Rhode Island that will pay you to move

State-wide

The Wavemaker Fellowship provides a financial incentive for graduates pursuing a career or starting a business in Rhode Island in science, technology, engineering, math, design, healthcare and other key sectors, by defraying student loan payments for up to four years. 

If you’re chosen, you’ll also be invited to participate in various personal and professional development programs, social and professional networking opportunities, community-based events and more.

South Carolina 

Nothing here – in fact they are thinking of charging people to move to the state )

Cities in South Dakota that will pay you to move

State-wide

The state’s $1000 Workforce Incentive program is designed to address the workforce shortage in retail, restaurants, hospitality, grocery, trades, and many other businesses. Individuals from out-of-state who come to work in South Dakota can receive $1,000. Check out eligibility requirements and get an application here.

Tennessee 

Nothing here. (GeekMove is no longer accepting applications to move to Chattanooga)

Texas

NONE (apart from a couple of very rural areas offering people lots to build on – no website, you’d have to call the city. There’s another offering for a wellness center membership)

Utah 

Nowhere in Utah, but if you

Cities in Vermont that will pay you to move

State-wide

Well, the good news is that insanely-scenic and community-minded Vermont does have a program to help you relocate to the Green Mountain state, if you have a job with a Vermont business or can bring your remote job with you. The bad news is that the Think Vermont program has been such a success, it’s overloaded with applications and needs to get more funding. If you want to move to Vermont, and don’t mind waiting, you can sign up here. 

Virginia

Nowhere we found in Old Dominion, I’m afraid. Let us know if you find anything!

Cities in Washington that will pay you to move

State-wide

Have student loan debt for your education in health-related fields? You can move to Washington state and receive up to $75,000 in reimbursements through the Washington State Loan Repayment Program. You’ll need to live there for three years before you can start collecting.

Cities in West Virginia that will pay you to move

Morgantown, Greenbrier Valley, Eastern Panhandle, Greater Elkins

This is an uplifting deal. Ascend West Virginia, a talent attraction program for remote workers, is offering $12,000 (plus free outdoor recreation options) for those who move to the Morgantown Area (lively college-town vibe), the gorgeous Greenbrier Valley (quaint small-town  American culture) Eastern Panhandle (historic charm) or Greater Elkins (mountain living). Check out the details here.

Cities in Wisconsin that will pay you to move

Fond du Lac County

Fond du Lac is offering an incentive ranging up to $15,000* and any business, regardless of size and industry, located within Fond du Lac County is eligible. Hit the job boards, see what the area has to offer, and ask employers if they are participating in the program.

Wyoming

Nothing here, sadly! But let us know if you know something we don’t.

Bellhop will make your move better

No matter where you want to go, we’ll be happy to help you make it happen. At Bellhop, our mission is to make moving as easy as possible. We coordinate local, state and long-distance moving services and can help find you a local mover, along with any other moving services you may need. From easy booking to skilled moving professionals who actually care about your stuff to the best customer service in the business, we’re here for you. 

The post Cities in Your State that Pay You to Move appeared first on Bellhop.

Hi, we’re Bellhop — movers in Florida and specifically Jacksonville movers, Orlando movers, Tampa movers, St. Petersburg movers, Miami movers, Fort Lauderdale movers, and West Palm Beach movers). We can help you move to (or from) these locations, and just about anywhere else in Florida. In fact, we’ve prepared lots of info on the sunshine state. Great guides like this one: THE Best Places to Live in Florida (2023).

Is Florida safe to move to?

The short answer is yes. The long answer is also yes, with an understanding about crime and statistics measuring crime.

Crime is as much about how someone feels as how it is measured. Someone who has unfortunately experienced a criminal event in their past, may feel very different than someone who has not.

Our news media channels always seem to go out of their way to talk about crime and which political party or demographic group bears the blame for it. It will be front and center in any election year as a hot topic. So, it’s very understandable that crime is on everyone’s mind.

Comparing Florida to other states

Comparing Florida’s crime records to other states’ is a favorite social media pastime. To compare criminal statistics, we have to use FBI data, the only source to measure criminal activities uniformly. Type ‘Florida crime rate compared to other states’ into a search engine, and you will receive the following answers:

• “Florida ranked 25th in violent crime rates.”
• “The third most dangerous state in the US. is Florida with 2,087 homicides.”
• “Florida Ranked As One Of Least Safest States In The U.S., Study Finds.”
• “Crime is at a 50-year low in Florida.”

As these headlines show, it’s easy to be confused.

What the FBI numbers say about Florida

The FBI defines two categories of crime: Violent and Property:

Violent Crime: In the United States, violent crime consists of five types of criminal offenses: murder and non-negligent manslaughter, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, and gang violence.

Florida ranks 26^th.

Murder Rate in Florida

In 2019 there were 14,700 reported murders with a national average of 12 murders per every 100,000 inhabitants.

Florida had 9.7 per 100,000, ranking 19^th in the US. By contrast states like Louisiana and Missouri led with 22.9 and 18 respectively.

Property Crime in Florida

Property crimes is a broad category of theft-related offenses in three sub-categories: vehicle theft, burglary, and larceny. Larceny includes such crimes as shoplifting, purse snatching, theft of car parts, check forging and embezzlement. They are the most reported of all crimes, accounting for easily more than three quarters of all major reported crimes.

Florida ranked 19th lowest among states and lower than the national rate. There were 1,769 property crimes for every 100,000 people.

Why comparing safest cities in Florida is a bad idea

The FBI Says, ‘Don’t Do it.’

The FBI itself recommends not comparing crime for states, metropolitan areas, and cities. In Uniform Crime Reporting Statistics: Their Proper Use, the agency writes:
“Data users should not rank locales because there are many factors that cause the nature and type of crime to vary from place to place..”

“Rankings ignore the uniqueness of each locale. Some factors that are known to affect the volume and type of crime occurring from place to place are:

• population density
• transportation systems
• family cohesiveness
• attitudes toward crime
• crime reporting practices of its citizenry.”

Not Every City Reports its Data to the FBI.

Not every city reports its data, in Florida or the other states. Smaller cities and non-metropolitan county areas have a lower reporting rate, as reflected in the FBIs ‘Table 5’ for Florida:

• Metropolitan Statistical Area (Big Cities) – 99.99% reported
• Cities outside metropolitan areas – 92.9% reported (7.1% don’t report)
• Nonmetropolitan counties – 93.4% reported (6.6% don’t report)

So why don’t they report? In fairness to these locales, it may be that they don’t have the manpower to compile the statistics and file the paperwork. Or it may not be a priority. Or someone in administration may decide the city will look better if it doesn’t.

FBI will ‘guesstimate’ city data to build out its statewide data.

The FBI expects 12 months of data for its reports. When it doesn’t get it, the agency has to make an educated guess, which it will do with three months or more of data.

Crime Rates in Cities with Less than 3 Months of Data Are ‘Made Up.’

‘If an agency has supplied less than 3 months of data, the FBI computes estimates by using the known crime figures of similar areas within a state and assigning the same proportion of crime volumes to nonreporting agencies.’ Source: Table 5, Offense Estimation

Translation: Small Town A that doesn’t report will be ‘assigned’ the adjusted crime statistics of Small Town B. This may create a totally artificial perception.

Hidden agendas in making comparisons

Mark Twain reminds us,  “There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.”

Pundits and promoters are likely to make comparisons about crime in Florida to make a point. Online searches regularly show comparisons between Florida and California crime rates, or a Florida city’s and New York City. Simply be advised that comparative data may be incomplete, and not advised, even by the FBI.

How to determine the safest cities in Florida

Do your research.

The latest FBI information for cities in Florida is based on 2019 in its Table 8 report. It only includes cities that reported a complete 12 months of data, meaning some towns are not included. (Table 8 data can be searched for other states too.) It only includes cities with about 48% of the state’s population so don’t be surprised if smaller communities are not represented.

Trust but verify.

Good online information providers will cite their sources. Look at their footnotes. Be doubtful of any organization, particularly large ones, that make blanket claims without offering you a means to check it out.

Define what is ‘safety’ to you.

Some online sources such as WalletHub rank states on safety. Their ranking is based on multiple attributes (not just crime), including financial safety, workplace safety. Some other sources are beginning to include climate info.

Visit and Talk to Locals

Moving can be expensive. A frugal first step is to have fun and explore, feel the sand between your toes. Florida experienced a record 137 million visitors in 2022, up significantly from past years. Local folks will gush about their communities and can share their feelings about safety, hurricanes, and best neighborhoods.

When you are ready for the big move, use Bellhop

Ultimately, where you move is based on you. We’ve provided this information to cut through a lot of ‘noise’ about crime and safety. Know that all of us at Bellhop want to support your decision, even if it means staying put, or moving somewhere else.

At Bellhop, there’s nothing we want more than for our customers to have a smooth move. If Florida (or another state) is the right move for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professionals at Bellhops. We coordinate local and long-distance moving services all over Florida, and we would love to help.

The post Are Florida’s Safest Cities Really the Safest? appeared first on Bellhop.

Less concerned with politics? We also put together a guide on the best places to live in Texas. If you’re looking to move to Texas, that’s also a good place for you to start.

Basics of Living in Texas

Texas, the Lone Star State, is known for country music, mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine, and being one of the largest US cities by both landmass and population, and it doesn’t show any signs of slowing down anytime soon.

Why Tons of People are Moving to Texas

In 2022, Texas became home to 30m people for the first time in its history, or almost 1/10th of the entire US population. In 2020, that number was only 20.94 million. In a little over 20 years, then, the population grew by more than 50%.

Why is this? A majority of people moving to Texas from California, where they’ve been priced out of the housing market and pay hefty taxes. In 2021, 110,000 people moved from California to Texas, or about 300 people a day. A major draw for Texas is its lack of income tax, while still offering great weather, plenty of economic opportunities, and a diverse culture.

With that said, Texas is known across the nation as being Republican – and that’s how pop culture typically portrays citizens of the Lone Star State: gun-loving and overwhelmingly red. After all, in the 2020 election, Trump beat Biden by over 600,000 votes.

However, despite that, the data paints a different picture. According to Pew Research Center, the split between Republicans and Democrats in Texas is roughly even, with about 40% of adults identifying as either right-leaning or left-leaning.

Liberals looking to move to Texas might be pleasantly surprised to find that most major cities are actually majority Democratic.

What Does Liberal Mean to You?

The term “liberal,” depending on its context, could mean different things to different people. Let’s define exactly what liberal means to you so that we can approach the problem appropriately. Many people assume that “liberal” refers to politics (progressive, Democratic, not Republican) but for some, it may represent inclusiveness, accepting people of all ethnic backgrounds and political stripes, an emphasis on environmentalism, or support for LGBTQ+ rights. 

Houston

Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the United States. While it used to be a Republican stronghold, today Houston is one of the most liberal cities in the state. The University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs looked at “every November General Election since 2000 (11 total elections), the two-party presidential vote from 2000 to 2020, and the 2018 U.S. Senate race (7 total elections)” and compiled a visualization of how the neighborhoods in and around the Houston metro have shifted over the past 20 years.

If you’re thinking about moving to Houston, it can help you find the best suburbs in Houston.

LGBTQ+ Rights Celebrated Annually with Major Parades

Houston emphasizes the LGBTQ+ community, having elected Annise Parker, the city’s first openly gay mayor, in 2009. The Houston Pride Festival is also one of the largest in the country, hosted every year around June in the Montrose neighborhood. If you’re looking for somewhere where LGBTQ+ people are accepted and celebrated, Houston could be a good move.

Austin

Austin is also a progressive stronghold in Texas. Austin is home to about 1 million Texans, making it the fourth largest city in Texas and the 11th largest city in the United States. The entire Austin metro area, which includes Auston, Pflugerville, Leander, and Georgetown is home to about 2.5 million. With a lower cost of living than many tech cities and year-round good weather, Austin is a go-to choice for young professionals and progressives.

Austin’s Progressive Stance on Big Box Stores, Third-Largest LGBTQ+ Population, and More

Austin has a liberal take on the expansion of big business and the dominance of big box stores. The slogan, “Keep Austin Weird,” was promoted in 2020 to help bring attention to the small businesses that help make Austin what it is.

 Similar to Houston, Austin also has a major gay pride parade. In 2022, the turnout for the Austin Pride Parade, which took place on Congress Avenue, was roughly 400,000, making it one of the largest pride parades in the country. There are a variety of gay bars in the downtown area, as well, including Highland Lounge, Oilcan Harry’s, and The Iron Bear. Additionally, according to the Williams Institute, between 100k-118k of the greater Austin population (of 2.5m) identifies as LGBTQ+, making it third in the United States, behind just Portland and San Francisco. 

Corpus Christi

On the flipside, if big metropolitan cities aren’t really your thing, Corpus Christi is a smaller liberal city on the coast of Texas. Located on the east coast, about ~100 miles south of San Antonio and ~210 miles southwest of Houston, Corpus Christi is home to about ~350,000 people.

Although there’s more of an even split between Republicans and Democrats in Corpus Christi, many political commentators believe that the area is trending Democratic as it continues to grow. Additionally, liberal means different things to different people, and Corpus Christi – since it has that even split of Democrats and Republicans – is more inclusive to a variety of political opinions.

Environmental Aims: Environmental Strategic Initiatives, RESTORE Act, and More…

The City of Corpus Christi aims to improve the distribution of natural resources through ESIs, “Environmental Strategic Initiatives,” which improve air quality and water quality.

Since it’s located so close to the coast, Corpus Christi residents typically have more of an outdoors bend, which makes them more environmentally inclined. If you’re looking for people who also share that same desire for more environmentally friendly policies, you’ll find plenty of people to connect with in Corpus Christi.

Denton

Denton has more of a college vibe than the other cities on this list. With two major universities, the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University, Denton has a progressive spirit that’s fueled by a younger population. It’s proximity to Dallas makes sure that you have world-class amenities with more of a small-town feel.

Denton’s annual pride festival highlights and celebrates civic acceptance of all different types of people – and the colleges play a big role in promoting a more inclusive environment for liberals.

Feminism Buoyed by College Atmosphere

Texas Woman’s University is the largest public university in the nation that’s primarily for women (although the university is ~11% male, as well). Obviously, with such a focus on educating women in healthcare, business, education, and more, the city has a focus on feminism. They have a variety of groups aimed at promoting women’s rights, including Denton Woman’s Club, Denton Feminist Queer and Collective, and more. 

If you’re a feminist looking for a place to move in Texas, Denton could be a good option due to its concentration of people with similar views and aims.

San Marcos

San Marcos is home to Texas State University, making it much more of a college town than some of the other cities on this list (with the exception of Denton, of course).

In the 2020 election, votes in San Marcos / Hays County primarily voted for Joe Biden, with a ~54.5% to 43.6% split between Biden and Trump. Traditionally, though, during many presidential elections, San Marcos has actually skewed Republican. Accordingly, if you’re looking for the highest proportion of liberals, living closer to Texas State University is your safest bet.

Texas State University: Diverse Student Population with Diverse Views

Texas State University is one of the more diverse universities in the United States. With 40% of the student population being Hispanic, 10% African American, and another 40% as white, there are plenty of different cultures with different views, which contribute to an atmosphere of growth and inclusivity.

That’s It – Top Five Liberal Cities in Texas

Despite the general purview in pop culture that Texas is overwhelmingly conservative and Republican, the actual numbers show that Texas is much more moderate than many would expect.

There is also no shortage of progressive policies and movements in Texas. Green initiatives, for example, are at the forefront of many citizens’ minds. Texas actually produces more alternative energy from wind and solar than any other state, 2.5 times more than California. That means that Texas is the leader in renewable energy in the entire United States. With a major pride parade in every city on this list, the data seems to point to shifting demographics in most major metros, with the liberal population continuing to grow.

If you’re a liberal thinking about moving to Texas, we hope that you found this information useful in your search for a city that you’ll love. We help coordinate moves all across the Texas area and beyond, so if you’re looking for someone to help you move, we’ve got your back. 

The post Where to Look for Liberal Cities in Texas appeared first on Bellhop.

Updated April 2023

The decision to move to a new state can be challenging. You don’t have to do it alone! In this article, we’ve gathered information about the state of Washington to make your decision a little bit easier.

If you’re considering moving to Washington, you’ve come to the right place. Washington is truly a gem in the Pacific Northwest… and not just for its breathtaking natural beauty.

In this state guide, we’ll cover everything from the stunning landscape that makes Washington so lovely, the booming economy that is beginning to give the rest of the nation some Silicon Valley deja vu and a few cities that are worth considering if you decide to actually make a jump here.

Grab a cup of coffee and settle in, we’re about to give you everything you need to know about moving to the wonderful state of Washington (oh, and by way of introduction, we’re Bellhop— we can help you move all over Washington, including in Seattle, Bellevue, Auburn, Bothell, Everett, Federal Way, Kent, Renton, Tacoma, Vancouver, and movers throughout the country).

A brief overview of the state of Washington.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a more macro look at the state of Washington as a whole by looking at the actual state itself. Washington has a lovely canvas.

1. Washington just might be the most beautiful state in the Pacific Northwest.

Washington state lives up to its reputation – it’s an amazingly beautiful state. Mother Nature coexists beautifully with bustling cities and there’s a fascinating mix of global corporations and small businesses, art-focused culture and outdoor adventure, and – particularly in the urban areas – a diverse and progressive population. 

But it’s not all forests, gray days, incessant drizzle and the ocean though – you’ll find that landscape mostly in Western Washington. The Cascade Mountain Range knifes through the state of Washington dividing it into two parts –– Western and Eastern Washington. The most heavily populated cities, including Olympia, Seattle-Tacoma and Vancouver are on the west side of the mountain. The economy is primarily focused on technology development and services, as well as high tech manufacturing. Eastern Washington’s primary industries are agriculture and minerals.

This state guide is packed full of the things you need to know before you make a move to the wonderful state of Washington. And when you’re ready to go, we’ll be happy to help. We’re Bellhop, and our Washington state movers are passionate about reducing the stress, worry and hassles of moving to a new home.

The pros and cons of moving to Washington.

Washington, like every other state, offers wonderful things to its residents – and some not so wonderful things. We’re optimists here at Bellhop, so we’re going to kick things off with the things we love about Washington. Then, we’ll share a few not so great things you might want to consider before moving here.

The pros of moving to Washington… an ultra high quality of life and the great outdoors.

Outdoor life – if you like to hike mountains, explore forests, fish, surf, kayak, canoe, paddle board, swim, ski and otherwise run amok in nature, you are going to love Washington. 

Coffee – the state, particularly the city of Seattle, is known for its independent, small-batch coffee roasters. People expect excellence in their mugs, and there are numerous coffee houses that deliver the optimum caffeine experience. 

Summer – while the rest of the country melts into sweaty little pools of humidity-induced delirium, or roasts in unceasing heat, people in the western part of Washington state are living their best lives. 

No state income tax – Washington state does not have a personal or corporate income tax. (but be aware that, like the other eight states who don’t collect income tax, Washington makes its money by imposing other taxes. Here, you may be on the hook for business and occupation (B&O) and/or public utility tax. Property taxes may also be higher than in states that collect income tax. Sales tax rates are set by each community.

Drawbacks to moving to Washington

Money – Washington is an expensive state to call home. The cost of living in Washington is 13% higher than the national average, and housing is 22% higher than the national average. Food, clothing, entertainment and medical services like basic dental care and checkups are around 15% higher than elsewhere in the U.S. But utilities are 10% lower.

Roads – Whoever designed the roadways in the western part of the state (Seattle-Tacoma, we’re looking at you) seems to have a grudge against drivers. Signs are hard to spot, lanes are cramped, on-ramps have stop signs, left lanes morph into exit ramps … it’s all just so very whimsical. 

Attitude – We hate to slap the whole state with what is somewhat of a stereotype, but there is a pervasive passive-aggressive attitude in some of the bigger cities. Nothing wrong with politely letting people know you are aggravating them, but it can be maddening for folks moving here from more straightforward states. 

Volcanoes – Washington is one of the 12 U.S. states with active volcanoes. The best known of the bunch is Mount St. Helens, which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. It’s 1980 eruption caused 57 deaths and destroyed 250 homes, as well as numerous roads, bridges and railways.  It’s the volcano most likely to erupt of the five active volcanoes in the state, but you’ll learn to keep a wary eye on all of them when you move here. A white wisp over Mount Rainier in September 2022 sent locals into a (justified!) frenzy, thankfully it turned out to be just a cloud formation.

Washington State’s Economy, Job Market, and Growth

We’re living in strange economic times. Good news can actually be bad, and bad news can be a sign that things may start to improve fairly soon. For example, a recent report in The Seattle Times pointed out that in the summer of 2022 “more companies posted job openings in Washington state than almost anywhere else in the U.S. … indicating inflation is likely to persist as labor shortages continue.” Yay, and oh no. 

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reinforces the fact that Washington state’s urban areas are experiencing a tight labor market. Technology and manufacturing firms led the way with hiring, while there is a bit of a rebound in leisure and hospitality industries too. Currently the state’s unemployment rate is at an all-time low. Inflation and the threat of a recession is creating uncertainly here, as it is across the country.

The average income across the state is $77,006 (as of August 2022).

Washington State: Best Cities To Live In

Seattle is home to approximately 60 percent of Washington’s residents, and it’s still growing fast. A lot of people initially come here for job opportunities, get seduced by the city’s beauty, and never leave. And no, it doesn’t rain all the time. You’ll stay drier here than you will in Manhattan or Miami. That said, the skies tend to be gray from October through May. The city’s culture centers on nature and its music scene, and is the very definition of laid-back, housing costs here are double (median: $736,721) the average for much of the U.S. You’ll mostly find young professionals here, families with kids tend to gravitate to smaller nearby towns and suburbs for space and cost reasons. 

Tacoma is nicknamed the “City of Destiny”, and is Seattle’s next door neighbor. It’s noticeably less expensive, less crowded, less crazy than Seattle, and it has a much better view of Mount Rainier too. It’s a great place to do business and was ranked by Forbes for being one of the top cities in the United States for young professionals. The arts scene is especially lively – head over the 6th Avenue Art District to start your explorations. America’s third-largest Independence Day celebration happens here, and there’s also Taste of Tacoma, Ethnic Fest, Tacoma Pride and the Tacoma Film Festival to enjoy. 

Spokane – in a state that is exceptionally gorgeous, Spokane stands out as one of Washington’s prettiest cities. A river runs right through downtown, and the city lives up to its motto: “Near Nature, Near Perfect.” It’s a peaceful place, with the benefits of big city pleasures like a lively food, entertainment and arts scene. Natural wonder abounds here, plus you’re less than an hour’s drive away from 76 lakes, a dozen or so rivers and one of Washington’s true gems… Lake Coeur d’Alene. Cost of living is below the national average, and the city is a great place for young professionals, families and retirees. 

Duvall is a suburb of Seattle, and is home to people with some of the highest incomes in the state, but the median price of housing here is relatively low. It’s got a bit of a rural feel, and boasts excellent schools and parks. Beyond that, the city’s devotion to festivals is a big draw for many. During the summer there’s the Duvall Days celebration, weekly concerts in McCormick Park, and the annual Sandblast Festival of the Arts. 

Mercer Island sits in the middle of Lake Washington between Seattle and Bellevue, and is a little slice of heaven that comes at a hellish price tag. The cost of living here is nearly three times as high as the Washington average, but the schools are great, the beaches are outstanding, and the amenities are fantastic. If you can afford it, it’s a wonderful place for families and retirees. 

Sammamish is perfect for families, with excellent schools, scenery and safety. The median price for a home is $878,000, which is very affordable for the folks who live here – they have the highest median household income in Washington at $181,464 annually. Despite the rather-exciting cost of living here, the city’s population is growing at a remarkable rate – about 5% annually – and has a solid economy with well-paying jobs. Seattle is a 15 minute drive (or 50 minutes on public transportation) away.

Redmond is a Seattle suburb on the northern shore of Lake Sammamish. It’s home to well-known tech companies like Microsoft and Nintendo of America, and the residents tend to be young – the median age is 34 – and well paid with the average income slightly over $79,890. Median home price is $1,285,945 and rising fast. Like much of the state, nature is the big draw here, along with brew pubs, coffee shops, casual dining and a vibrant arts and music scene. 

Reasons to Move to Washington State

Top-performing schools – One report dubs Washington the fourth-best state for public education (oh, and the top state overall, but who’s counting?). As of the most recent school year, the high-school graduation rate is 80%. This is in the ballpark of the national average (87%). The math and reading proficiency levels in Washington State are also higher than the national average, coming in at 50% for math and 59% for reading. In comparison, the national averages are 38% and 46%, respectively. 

Numerous colleges and universities – There are six public universities in Washington State and 300+ independent colleges. That means that whether you have kids at home who want to go to school close to home, or you’re looking to meet young professionals and singles in that age group, Washington State could be a great place for you. Not to mention, the colleges and universities in Washington are highly ranked, with the best school being the University of Washington. 

One of the happiest states – If you consult your friend Google, there are many reports on the happiest states. You’ll get different answers no matter where you look, but one thing is for sure: Washington State is one of the happiest on most reports. It’s even called the seventh-happiest state, according to one report. Why? There could be lots of reasons for that, from the outdoor life to the coffee. (Let’s be honest. The coffee is enough of a reason to convince us!)

All four seasons – Enough said, really. Washington has all four seasons. That’s right! You get beautiful summers, sure, but you also get the luxury of breathtaking falls, winters, and springs. The sun is out in the summer, the leaves change colors in the fall, snow falls in the winter, and flowers bloom in the spring. It’s everything you could want!Scenery – The state is something out of a storybook in Washington State. From beautiful waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and coastlines to rolling hills and mountains, the scenery in Washington is sure to dazzle you. (Even if you don’t end up moving to Washington, be sure to have your smartphone ready to take plenty of pictures! You will want to remember your visit.)

Reasons Not to Move to Washington State

Traffic – If you’ve ever been to Seattle, you know how congested it can get. There are only 13 cities with worse traffic in the entire country. In fact, in 2019 alone, most commuters lost 74 hours just sitting in traffic. There are parts of Washington State where traffic isn’t bad (Eastern Washington, for instance), but the West side can come with some pretty long commute times due to the sole amount of drivers on the road. 

Housing costs – The cost to buy a home is so high in Washington State that it deserves a section of its own. The median home cost is $534,700, which is significantly higher than the national average median home cost of $338,100. (That goes to show that if you move to Washington State, you’ll need to secure a good-paying job as quickly as possible if you hope to buy a home. It’s a good thing the state is known for its strong economy.)

Snow – You know how we said that one of the best things about Washington is that it has all four seasons and some pretty glorious summers? Well, that means one thing: the winters can get very…wintery. That means snow! The state gets 50-75 inches of snow in low-elevation areas and up to 400-600 inches of snow and counting at higher elevations.

Wildfires – The weather can get extra dry in Washington State at times, and when combined with wind, that can lead to a fire. Many parts of the state have to be extremely cautious and have a plan of action in place in case of a fire, especially during wildfire season, which tends to go from July to September. 

Above-average transportation costs – Transportation is 13.6% more expensive in Washington State than in the rest of the country as a whole. This factors in the cost of gas, car insurance, etc. In other words, if you don’t plan on riding your bike everywhere and want to drive or take public transportation, you can expect to pay more in Washington than in other parts of the U.S. 

Moving to Washington State

If you love the great outdoors and aspire to make a name for yourself in the tech space (or at the very least build a strong career), Washington is a pretty obvious choice. Yes, it certainly has some drawbacks – the cost of living is pretty painful. But, we think the opportunities waiting there, and the absolute beauty of the state, might be worth the price you pay for calling Washington home. 

We’ll let you decide that though. At Bellhop, our job is to help make your move to Washington state easy and inexpensive, whether you’re living on the other side of the country or are making a local move. Get in touch, we look forward to hearing from you!

The post Is Moving to Washington State Right for You? (Updated 2023) appeared first on Bellhop.

Relocating can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to narrowing down places to live. Don’t worry, this blog will help you decide if Virginia is your next big adventure!

If you’re thinking about moving to Virginia, you’ve certainly come to the right place. Also, if you are looking for the best places to live in Virginia, we’ve got you covered. 

We’re about to take you on a journey, exploring both the old and the new, uncovering what exactly makes Virginia such a great state to call home (oh, and by way of introduction, we’re Bellhop—movers in Virginia, Richmond movers, Arlington movers, Fairfax movers, Midlothian movers, and Alexandria movers and throughout the country).

Moving to Virginia, a brief overview of the state.

It’s too bad we’re not talking about West Virginia today, we could have opened this section up with John Denver’s iconic song “Take Me Home”…

Almost heaven, West Virginia. Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River, Life is old there, older than the trees. Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze.

Fortunately, with Virginia being so close, many of the features and elements that make West Virginia stunning hold true for its Eastern neighbor. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to Tidewater, From the Northern Neck to the Eastern Shore, Virginia is not only gorgeous, it has considerable environmental diversity. 

Nicknamed Old Dominion, Virginia is home to a variety of natural beauties. For one, it has thousands and thousands of miles of coastline. In fact, the state’s largest city, Virginia Beach, is located on the coast where the Chesapeake Bay collides with the Atlantic. The city of Virginia Beach alone boasts over 38 miles of coastline, much of which consists of pristine beaches.

But, the ocean isn’t the only water that can be enjoyed in Virginia. The state is home to four major rivers that flow into the Chesapeake Bay. These, from North to South, are Potomac-Shenandoah River system, the Rappahannock River, the York River, and the James River. A quick Google search and you will quickly understand why this is worth mentioning. Between these four rivers and dozens of other smaller rivers, the state takes on a National Geographic like beauty that is difficult to fathom. Not to mention, over 217 miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains run through Virginia. So, you’re getting the best of both worlds.

And, with this beauty, naturally comes a considerable amount of outdoor activities. Be it mountain biking, paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, surfing or camping you’ll never run out of things to do in this lovely state. And, if sweating just isn’t your thing, we think you’ll enjoy simply sipping tea and taking in the view, too.

Virginia has got some fire-power.

Are you sitting down? This number is going to surprise you. The state of Virginia is home to twenty-seven military bases. In fact, every single service branch has at least one base set up in the state of Virginia.

Naturally, this type of military influence changes up the culture some. Take Virginia Beach, for example, in this city alone there are over 60,000 veterans. That’s a lot when you consider the city as a whole has a population of 500,000. Naval Air Station Oceana, located in Virginia Beach, is responsible for over 60,000 military take-offs and landings each year. That’s roughly 165 a day.

So, if you’re concerned about a zombie apocalypse or a foreign invasion, we’re fairly certain Virginia is a safe state to call home. You’re literally surrounded by military personnel at all times.

What are the pros and cons of moving to Virginia?

Virginia, all in all, is a magnificent state. But, like every other state in the U.S., it has some not so great things about it, too. In this section, we’ll be covering what we love about Virginia and what we don’t. Here are the pros and cons of moving to Virginia.

The pros of moving to Virginia… great schools and southern hospitality.

We try to be optimistic here at Bellhop, so to kick things off we’re going to start with the pros of moving to Virginia. For one, Virginia has great schools. The University of Virginia and Virginia Tech, both considered to be among some of the best schools in the nation are located in Virginia. So, if you are a young professional raising a family and want your kids to have access to world-class higher education (for an in-state price tag)… moving to Virginia might not be a bad idea.   

And, in addition to the smarts, Virginia is known for being exceptionally polite too. Unlike larger cities like Boston and New York, folks in Virginia say hello when they pass you on the streets, they open doors for you and they aren’t afraid to give you a friendly smile. While this cultural change can take some getting used to, especially if you’re moving from a bigger city, most who experience it, fall in love with it.

The cons of moving to Virginia… nasty traffic congestion (and you can get fined for swearing).

With that said, it’s certainly not all rainbows and butterflies in Old Dominion. Many folks say that Northern Virginia has some of the worst traffic in the nation. With it hugging D.C., the area can become packed like sardines, quickly. If you’re moving from New York, Chicago or Los Angeles , this might not be a concern for you. But, if you’re used to being able to jump in a car and get anywhere in less than five minutes, you might want to think twice about moving to  Northern Virginia. This can be a problem in the the eastern part of the state as well, Hampton Roads, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach, where the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel can be a major chokepoint to traffic.

On the bright side, traffic in Richmond and elsewhere in the state is usually quite tolerable.

Also, and this is more of a funny/interesting point versus an actual con, Virginia doesn’t have a high tolerance for foul language. In fact, in some areas of Virginia Beach, you can get fined for cursing. Not a problem if you don’t cuss. But, if you have a mouth like a sailor, be on the lookout for “no cursing signs” before you start throwing out some words we can’t repeat here.

Want to learn more about living in Northern Virginia? Check out our guide to moving to Fairfax.

A stellar economy and a reasonable cost of living make moving to Virginia a breeze.

Virginia has a rich history of being a rich state. Jamestown, the first capital of Virginia, was actually the first English settlement in the United States and was founded with the sole purpose to increase England’s wealth and power. While growth in Virginia has slowed down over the past few years, growth in Northern Virginia and Virginia Beach continues to be robust, driving the state as a whole. Though that being said, parts of Western and Southwestern Virginia have suffered deep declines over the past twenty years.

Virginia, a wealthy state with a reasonable cost of living.

With twenty-seven military bases in Virginia and it being so close to the Pentagon, it’s safe to say a big money maker for the state is the government. While some say this could eventually be a weakness for Virginia, it’s doing them tons of good right now. Not to mention, with Virginia having twenty-one Fortune 500 companies scattered across the state… Dollar Tree, CarMax and Capital One to name a few… we aren’t too concerned.

And, if Virginia has anything going for it, it’s the relatively low cost of living. No, it’s not cheap when compared to the United States as a whole. But, when you compare large Virginia cities to East Coast cities, you’re saving yourself some hard earned money.

What are the best places to live in Virginia?

There are so many lovely cities in Virginia. So, consolidating the list to just three was a challenge for us. With that said, our favorite cities (and the ones we most recommend) are Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Richmond –– all very different flavors but delicious flavors nonetheless.

Join the renaissance in Richmond.

Richmond, Virginia is in the midst of a beautiful renaissance. It’s low cost of living and progressive culture is turning the city into a safe haven for hipsters, creatives and entrepreneurs looking to escape the big bustling cities and march to the beat of their own drum. Richmond is a hidden gem with plenty of historic charm and one we recommend first on this list simply because you’ll have the chance to be a part of something magical happening there. For a mid-sized city, Richmond punches above its weight in terms of quality restaurants and breweries, as well as having a thriving music scene. And with the James River flowing right through downtown, it’s a mountain biker’s paradise – and even features some of the few urban whitewater rapids in the country. Richmond is also a great place for young professionals too… with 7 fortune 500 companies headquartered there, the opportunity for career growth is endless. If you are thinking of making the leap and moving to Richmond, feel free to give us a call. We’d love to help. 

Enjoy the sun in Virginia Beach.

Okay, so we don’t have to sell you hard on this one. It’s Virginia Beach, after all. We imagine you’ve heard of it. Virginia’s largest city boasts over 38 miles of coastline and offers a very unique culture that combines a southern feel with a laid back beach vibe. If you want to jump into a strong economy while also being a beach bum on the weekends, we couldn’t recommend Virginia Beach more.

And, lastly, there is Norfolk.

Norfolk offers a healthy work/life balance. It’s built into the culture. Norfolkians ask what do you like to do before what do you do for a living. They’re more concerned with life versus strictly work and that’s a beautiful refreshing thing for those coming from larger work-centric cities. Norfolk is also home to a growing art scene and one heck of a beer and food culture. Just don’t pronounce it Nor-Folk. It’s pronounced Naw-fick. 

Cost of moving:

The costs of moving to Virginia can depend on a variety of factors. How far are you moving? Do you need more than one truck? Do you need to storage? One way to gauge the costs of moving to Virginia is to use a moving cost calculator to begin to plan within your budget.

Still on the fence about moving to Virginia?

We’re really digging Virginia. But, maybe it’s not for you? If so, we really encourage you to check out some of our other state guides.

Regardless, no matter where you decide to settle down, don’t hesitate to give us a call when you’re ready to make your jump. If you decide to move in or to Virginia, don’t hesitate to reach out. We coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Virginia and we would love to help!

The post Is Moving to Virginia Right for You? Updated for 2023 appeared first on Bellhop.

If you are considering moving to Ohio, you might have some concerns. Especially if you don’t know what it has to offer.

That’s why we’ve created this blog to answer all your questions about Ohio, in hopes that it will become your next adventure!

If you’re reading this right now, you’re either considering moving to Ohio or you just really love learning about new states. Regardless, we’re glad you’re here, and we have a lot to share with you.

Kick your feet up and let’s explore the incredible state of Ohio (oh, and by way of introduction, we’re Bellhop—Cincinnati movers, Cleveland movers, Columbus movers, Hamilton movers and movers throughout the country).

Looking for Long Distance Columbus Movers?

A Brief Overview of Ohio

Anyone who has ever called Ohio a “Flyover State” finds themselves eating their words if they ever visit. To say Ohio is breathtaking is an understatement. When Winston Churchill paid Ohio a visit, he fell in love with what he saw in Cincinnati, the third largest city in the state, describing it as, “the most beautiful of the inland cities of the union.”

Ohio as a whole lives up to Churchill’s bold statement, decorated picture perfectly with tiny towns, lovely foliage, waterfalls (and more waterfalls), flowing rivers and streams and 110 natural lakes. But, Ohio’s stunning natural landscape is just the beginning of the many aspects that make this state a hidden gem in the Midwest. Not to mention, many Ohioans claim that their state does “Autumn” the best… a quick Google search, and we can’t argue with them.

It’s ironic to hear folks call Ohio a “Flyover state” because if they have ever stepped foot in a plane, they have the “Flyover State” to thank. That’s right. Wilbur and Orville Wright, the fathers of flight, were born and raised in Dayton, Ohio where together they dreamed of putting a man in the air. This longing for flight seems to be a gene unique to Ohioans… twenty-five of NASA’s astronauts hail from The Buckeye State… and yes, this includes Neil Armstrong.

What are the pros and cons of moving to Ohio?

As with any state, there are some great aspects about Ohio, and then there are some not so great ones. Thankfully, the good heavily outweighs the bad in The Buckeye State. We’ll give you the bad news first, that way we can end with the good stuff.

Drawbacks of Moving to Ohio

A good while back, The Thrillist ranked Ohio as the thirst worst state in the United States, behind Florida at position number one and Delaware at the number two spot. As you can imagine, this hurt Ohioans… and to rub some serious salt in the wound, The Thrillist named Ohio’s arch-nemesis… Michigan as the “best state” in the United States. Their reasoning for Ohio being the third worst? And we quote, “Getting LeBron back only further cemented its position as the Florida of the North.” Come on guys; you’ve got to give us something better than that…

Anyway, we’re not blind, Ohio isn’t perfect. And, while there are a lot of great things about it, the winter’s are as cold as your ex-lover, and the sport’s teams have had a history of being quite bad. But, and this is a very big but, they’re making a comeback… in 2016 the Cavaliers won the NBA championship and Baker Mayfield looks like he might be the QB the Browns have been waiting for.

Not the most diverse state

One downside of Ohio is that there’s not a lot of diversity. In fact, one report called Ohio the “ninth-least diverse state in the country,” with all factors considered. While diversity isn’t prevalent throughout the state, you are sure to find it in Cuyahoga County, which is considered to have the most diversity out of the 88 counties in the state of Ohio. 

High crime rates in some spots

Crime is not extremely bad in Ohio, with a crime rate of 24.5 per 1,000 residents. However, some cities score not-so-great in the crime arena. We’re talking about Cleveland specifically. While this is a great city overall with lots of opportunities, 98% of cities throughout the nation are considered safer. While you have a 1 in 297 chance of becoming a violent crime victim in Ohio, the chance is 1 in 58 in Cleveland. 

However, let’s say you just got a job in Cleveland, and the option to *not* move is just, well, not there. If so, don’t worry. You can still move to Cleveland and find a safe, nice neighborhood. Some of the safest places to live in the city include Kamm’s Corners North, River Edge, Jefferson, and Buckeye Shaker Square East.

Public transportation can be hard to find

It’s no secret that Ohio is a massive state with several cities you can choose from to call home. However, if you’re moving to Ohio for work (particularly to a place like Cincinnati), there’s a good chance you’ll rely on the public transportation system to get you around, particularly if you’re moving with a family and only have one vehicle. 

This might not be a problem in the big cities, which have quite a few transportation options, from buses to taxis. (Cincinnati alone has the Cincinnati Metro Bus, ride-sharing, Bikeshare, Cincinnati Bell Connector, Zipcars, and counting.)

However, it can be tricky if you move to a smaller part of the state. That means that if you lack a car now, you’ll probably have to end up getting one by the time you move, unless you move downtown in one of the major cities or in close proximity to public transportation. 

Benefits of Moving to Ohio

The list of pros of moving to Ohio could go on forever. So, we’ll just highlight the most impressive aspects about the state. For one, the state has some pretty stellar cities in Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus (more on all of those down below) and it offers a relatively reasonable cost of living, even in the larger cities that we just named.

Then, of course, Ohio is filled with little gems scattered across the state. For example, there is an entire island dedicated to total awesomeness. It’s called Put-in-Bay, and it sits in Lake Erie. Thousands of folks visit the island every year to ride around on golf carts, eat great food and drink. And, we can’t forget about Cedar Point… the roller coaster capital of the world… it has set a world record with 71 rides and 17 roller coaster that will scare the living daylights out of you.

Ohio schools and universities

Did you know Ohio takes the cake as the seventh-biggest school system nationwide? It’s true! There are roughly 3,538 public schools as of this year, with 1,643,345 students. The math proficiency is 50%, and the reading proficiency is 57%, which are both above the national average. 

The high-school graduation rate is 85% as of the most recent school year, which is just below the national average of 87%. There are also many schools in Ohio with a graduation rate in the upper 90s, including but not limited to Granville High School, which graduates more than 99% of students.

All in all, if you’re going to pick a state for your kids to get a good education, Ohio is a suitable choice. Not to mention, there are many universities in the area that they can transfer to and potentially get in-state tuition for if they want to live near home. Some of the best universities in Ohio include Ohio State University, Case Western Reserve University, and the University of Dayton. 

Affordable housing in Ohio

Ohio is one of the most economical states to buy a home in, with the median home costing only $179,700 ($112,000 less than the national average). If you’re looking to rent before you purchase a home and start putting down roots, you can find a place for pretty cheap. 

The average rent in Columbus is $1,184, Cincinnati is $1,259, and Cleveland is $1,316. Of course, those aren’t the only places to move to in the state. You can also cut your rent down even more by moving to a place like Kettering, which has an average rent of $992. 

Fast and simple to get to the big cities

Ohio is a unique state in that it has three thriving metropolitan areas: Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus. Even if you live in the suburbs or in a rural community in the Buckeye State, it’s usually just a quick drive to get to the big city. That means you have tons of activities, amenities, entertainment, and more just minutes away–more often than not.

The job market and the economy: what does the money look like in Ohio?

Okay, so we know Ohio is a stunning state aesthetically and offers plenty of fun to be had, but is it realistic economically? What’s the cost of living in Ohio? How’s the job market? These are all questions we explore below.

An economy that’s in the midst of a revolution.

Ohio’s economy has long been focused on manufacturing. In fact, it offers more careers in manufacturing than every state, behind two, bringing in 680,000+ jobs for prospective employees. With that said, it’s currently experiencing an exciting transition as young creatives, entrepreneurs, and tech-savvy college grads are moving into the workforce.

Columbus, the state capital of and the largest city in Ohio, has a culture and workforce bursting at the seams with creativity. In fact, behind New York City and Los Angeles, Columbus has more fashion designers than anywhere else in the U.S. This, along with the presence of the renowned Columbus College of Art & Design, has bred a creative mindset shared by clothing designers, painters, makers, artists, and entrepreneurs. 

Not to mention, massive brands like Kroger, Macy’s, P&G, Goodyear, Cintas, Sherwin-Williams, Nationwide, and Speedway all call Ohio home. So, whether you want to start a career in manufacturing, hope to get your foot in the door at a Fortune 500 company, or plan to start a business, Ohio isn’t a bad place to be. 

Just keep in mind that the unemployment rate in Ohio is higher than the national average, coming in hot at 4.2% as of December 2022, with approximately 244,000 people without a job. That means that if you want to move to Ohio, you’re best off securing employment beforehand. 

That way, you don’t go without if you move there, especially if you don’t work in manufacturing or one of the state’s other major industries. Of course, if you like to fly by the seat of your pants, just make sure to at least set up some interviews before you move and have somewhat of a nest egg!

What’s the cost of living like in Ohio?

We’d argue that this might be Ohio’s greatest strength. It’s one inexpensive state to live in. Ohio’s largest cities (Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland) are far more affordable than other Midwestern cities like Chicago. You can find a nice apartment in all of the cities we listed above for under $1,500, no problem–something we can’t say about many places.

What are the best places to live in Ohio?

If you’re sold on moving to Ohio then we recommend you make a jump to this article where we highlight the best places to live in Ohio. We also have moving guides to Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus and delve deep into why each of these cities are just so wonderful. But, we’ll give you a concise synopsis here, too.

Get your creative fix in Columbus.

Columbus is a hidden gem in the Midwest. It is home to the Buckeyes, which sports an undergrad of 66,000 students that attend the university, giving the place a lovely energetic youthfulness. Of all the Ohio cities, it is by far the most creative, ranking behind only New York City and Los Angeles as the city with the most fashion designers in the United States. Not to mention, with the average rent for an apartment in Columbus being $1,074 and the average salary in the city sitting right around $51,000, it’s very doable too.

 For breathtaking landscape, Cincinnati is your place.

To put it short, Cinci is stunning. It’s nestled by the Mississippi River and has lovely hills that give the place a pleasant character. Cincinnati also has a surprising number of sports teams for only sporting a population of 300,000… both the Cincinnati Bengals and the Reds call the city home. Average rent for an apartment in Cincinnati is going to cost you $1,132, and a one bedroom can get as low as $900-ish.

For the very cheapest living, head to Cleveland.

We see quite a few strengths in Cleveland. What’s most impressive to us are the opportunities in the city for young professionals and entrepreneurs. The city was actually ranked one of the top fifty entrepreneurial-friendly cities in the world.

Rent can drop as low as $655 for a two bedroom in certain parts of Cleveland… which is a huge plus if you’re looking to start your own business. And, the money that is saved on rent can be spent on some of the best food you’ll find. Cleveland has long been known as a great city for exceptional food. Thrillist considers the city to not only have one of the best food scenes in the country but one that is constantly getting better. Time Magazine seems to agree with them, calling Cleveland the seventh best food city in the United States. Whether you’re looking for killer BBQ or fine dining, it’s all there in Cleveland, Ohio.

Interested in mountain biking? No trip to Cleveland is complete without visiting Ray’s Indoor MTB Park. We have long-distance moving services in Cleveland, if you’re ready to pull the trigger.

Cost of moving:

The costs of moving to Ohio can depend on a variety of factors. How far are you moving? Do you need more than one truck? Do you need to storage? One way to gauge the costs of moving to Ohio is to use a moving cost calculator to begin to plan within your budget.

Wondering if you should move to Ohio? Just do it.

If we’ve learned anything in this article, it’s that Ohio is anything but a “flyover state”. It is home to stunning landscape, plenty of history, lovely cities and a level of affordability tough to find in other states.

What are you waiting for? And, if you find yourself needing help moving, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We offer Cleveland moving services, Columbus moving services, Cincinnati moving services – and more. 

The post Is Moving to Ohio Right for You? (Updated for 2023) appeared first on Bellhop.

It can be intimidating to move to a large state, especially if you’re unfamiliar with what it has to offer. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the great state of Texas before you make the journey down.

Texas is a massive state with a ton of character.

Texas is the second largest state in the US after Alaska, and within the 269,000 square miles the giant takes up, you can find deserts, mountains, forest, ranch land and over 360 miles of beautiful coastline and an 850 miles interstate route that makes traveling through the great state seamless. It has character. A LOT of character. Each city has it’s own unique charm. That is why we are movers in the follow Texas Cities:

• Allen
• Austin
• Baytown
• Conroe
• Cypress
• Dallas
• Fort Worth
• Garland
• Grand Praire
• Houston
• Irving
• Katy
• Lewisville
• McKinney
• Mesquite
• New Braunfels
• Pearland
• Plano
• Richardson
• Round Rock
• San Antonio
• Sugar Land

When it comes to cities in Texas, there’s plenty to choose from.

In addition, Texas also houses three of the largest cities in the United States –– Houston, San Antonio and Dallas being some of the most popular cities –– all of which on this list of cities in Texas are so rich with history, culture and entertainment we could write an entire article focusing strictly on each. Yet, besides the larger names Texas is known for, it is also home to much smaller cities like Austin, which is quickly becoming a favorite for young professionals across the nation; or even like Asana, which is the San Francisco of Texas.

Pros and cons of living in Texas

Like all states, Texas has some great things about it and… some not so great things. Fortunately, unlike other states, the good far outweighs the bad. Regardless, here are a couple factors worth thinking about as you consider your move.

Pro: the schools in Texas are highly rated. 

Got elementary, middle, or high-school-aged kids? Plan to have them in the future and don’t want to move states just to ensure they have the best schools at their disposal? Then, Texas is a great place to move! 

The high-school graduation rate is 90% as of the most recent school year, which is above the national average of 87% and exceeds the graduation rates of other states, such as California, Arizona, and New York. About 37% of students are proficient in math, and 42% are proficient in reading, which is close to the national average of 38% and 46%. 

Of course, school ratings aren’t just about math and reading proficiency levels and high-school graduation rates. They’re also about overall academics, teachers, and extracurricular activities. Texas rates well in all areas, particularly in the suburbs.

Pro: it’s one of the best states for recruiting athletes.

If you have a high-schooler who dreams of playing pro ball one day or maybe has their eye on a Division 1 school, then it’s worth it to move to a place where recruitment is at its highest. Texas, California, and Florida make that list, and Texas–in particular–is known for gearing students up to play professional football at an early age. Some famous athletes who went to school in Texas include two-time Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes, Craig Robertson, Tyrone Swoops, Chase Daniel, and Derrick Kindred.

Pro: culture is everywhere.

One thing we love about Texas is the culture. The state has a rich history and is proud of it. Residents don’t shy away from celebrating the arts or different groups of people. Instead, they embrace it! Some notable events where you can see the residents’ appreciation for culture firsthand include Viva! El Paso, Fiesta De La Flor in Corpus Christi, and Fiesta San Antonio.

Pro: the taxes are ridiculously low.

Texas is one of the few states in the US that boast no income tax. Which is great, but what does this mean for you in terms of savings? Well, according to Time Magazine , Texas collects about $3,500 per resident. California, on the other hand, collects $4,900. So, when you compare it to other states, residents of Texas save as much as half of what they would normally pay in taxes. That’s nothing to scoff at and might even be a factor that tips the scale in favor of moving from California to Texas. It should be noted though, that the state makes up the difference for no income tax through its slightly higher property taxes.

Pro: it ranks #2 as the “most diverse state.” 

Want to move to a state where you’ll feel welcome? Texas is a great pick! Not only is it one of the top states in the U.S. for diversity, but it’s also known for friendly, warm people who go out of their way to help a neighbor in need. You’ll find the most diversity in Houston, Dallas, Arlington, and Fort Worth (in that order). 

Con: it’s hotter than hades (okay maybe not that hot, but you get it) + Other Weather

Texas is hot. In fact, Texas Monthly called Texas the hottest state in the entire country. Along the Rio Grande, which is the hottest spot in Texas, days and nights average 102 degrees Fahrenheit. In both San Antonio and Dallas, the summer temperatures average out at around 100 degrees. That’s hot. And, to be completely honest, it’s something worth considering before you make the jump there. If you’re the type of person that can’t stand the heat, Texas is the last place you’re going to want to move to. It might be worth investing in a pool. That, or take plenty of cold showers during the summertime.
And if you consider living in North Texas, take into account the potential tornado, due to where it’s located in tornado alley.

Con: strong political views might be a make or break.

It’s okay to have your own views on politics, but just know that if you move to Texas, you best prepare yourself for political conversations. The state is made up of mostly Republicans who believe strongly in the Second Amendment (i.e., the right to bear arms). If your beliefs differ, you may prefer living in a different state with political views that align more closely with your own. Of course, as long as you’re respectful when discussing politics with others, you’ll be just fine!

Con: the traffic leaves something to desire. 

If you’re moving from a rural community to a big city like Dallas or San Antonio, you’ll be in for a shock when you hit the freeway. Why? One word: traffic. And Houston is considered the worst city for traffic throughout the state. In fact, it was estimated that most people driving in Houston lost 46 hours being stuck in traffic in a year’s time alone. 

Traffic doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker, though. Our suggestion is to avoid traveling during rush hour and the peak times of the day so that you can make it to where you need to go faster.

Con: there are funding issues at some schools, which affects property taxes.

While it’s great that there’s no state income tax in Texas, helping you keep money in your back pocket, that can come at a cost to students. How exactly? Texas public schools are state-funded, meaning that the money for schooling comes from property taxes. That’s one of the reasons property taxes are a little higher in Texas (the seventh-highest nationwide, to be exact), with a property tax rate of 1.60%.

Con: the state is one of the most dangerous. 

Report after report shows that Texas has one of the highest crime rates nationwide. So, while we love Texas and are big advocates of moving there, finding a city with a low crime rate might help you feel more at ease about making your move to the Lone Star State. Some of the safest cities to move to include Highland Village, Southlake, Elgin, Fairview, and Trophy Club. 

If you want to move to a big city, consider living on the outskirts in the suburbs, where crime rates are generally lower. While it might be hard to avoid crime altogether, you may have luck moving to a city like Austin vs. Houston, considering that Austin scores lower in terms of both violent and property crimes.

Money in Texas: jobs, the economy, and cost of living.

There is money in Texas, hence why the state is described as an economic powerhouse. According to an article Texas Monthly published, something like 46 billionaires live in Texas. That’s a lot of people with a lot of money… but where does all that money come from? Well, half of them amassed their riches in oil and gas pipelines, which up to this point in time has been the largest money maker in the state.

But, let’s not assume that’s the only way these billionaires are making their money. Michael Dell made his billions by… yes, you guessed it… Dell. Tilman Ferrtita has made his fortunes in the food industry, starting restaurant giants like Bubba Gump Shrimp. One of their newest residents, Elon Musk, made his fortune by purchasing, and then adding value to, Tesla. And, of course, Mark Cuban, the golden child of anything entrepreneurial, lives in Dallas. 

But, as innovation is beginning to seep into the great state, some are calling one Texan city the Silicon Valley of the South. But, more on that in the next section.

The next silicon valley… in Austin?

So, industries like agriculture, energy, defense and healthcare are what makes up the larger economy of Texas. But, as more and more young professionals are moving to the state, an interesting and refreshing spark of innovation and activity in tech has begun to take hold –– particularly in Austin.

Forbes has actually listed Austin as a city that could potentially become the next Silicon Valley. That’s obviously a pretty bold statement that we don’t have an opinion on one way or the other. But, you get the idea, there’s some innovation happening there. What does something like this mean for someone like you, though?

Well, startups like AppSumo, Onnit, Rollick Outdoor and Senseye have gone from being ideas to big innovators employing hundreds. This constant innovation means more jobs for folks moving to Texas. And, if you’re someone that wants to start a business yourself, it’s best to immerse yourself in a culture where entrepreneurship runs wild. Either way, employee or entrepreneur, Austin is a good place to land.

If you’re interested in the tech and startup scene in Austin and want to line up a few potential employment opportunities before moving there, AngelList is a great resource. We highly recommend checking it out!

Texas is home to plenty of fortune 500 companies, too.

The job market doesn’t end at startups though. There are plenty of fortune 500 companies headquartered in Texas as well. Huge industry giants like ExxonMobil, GameStop, At&t, Southwest, Texas Instrument, Phillips 66, Whole Foods and Valero are just a few massive companies that have made Texas their home base. Honestly, we’re kind of blown away by some of the names on this list.

Great job opportunity coupled with a reasonable cost of living makes Texas a gem for young professionals.

According to Zillow, the median home price in Texas is $190,000 and the average rent price is about $1,500. Due to the fact that Texas is absolutely massive, they have practically endless land to build on. The more houses builders can put up means more supply, which makes housing prices more affordable. While $200,000 might buy you a shack in California, in Texas it’ll get you a nice home, with more square footage for your particular needs. Couple this with the fact that there are plenty of job opportunities, an average salary of $56,536, a low unemployment rate, and it’s a pretty good situation for young professionals looking to be homeowners and wanting to enjoy a higher standard of living.

What’s it like to live in Texas?

So, when we started out writing this guide, we wanted to get to the bottom of the saying, “Everything is bigger in Texas”. While we weren’t able to trace its origins, we did discover the saying had some truth behind it. Texas is really big, nearly as big as the entire country of France. And, when it comes to living, Texas does it up pretty big too.

Living in Texas

Texans are an interesting mix of loving and tough. They’re known for being huggers with bigger-than-life personalities but have been built to be pretty resilient considering they deal with 100 degree summers six months out of the year and have to avoid being bitten by poisonous rattlesnakes on the daily.

Not unlike the people, it feels like the culture in Texas offers similar extremes, making it a state where just about everyone can find something they love.

Music in Texas is complex and dynamic, running deep in the culture. While most people think “country” when they think Texas, independent and alternative artists are popping up everywhere in the state.

The New York Times actually wrote an entire piece on the emerging music scene in Texas . For history buffs, it’s a state built on the grounds where native tribes like the Caddo, Apache and Comanche had lived for 11,000 years. And, on the contrary, for futurists, it’s a place where organizations like SpaceX and NASA fire off their rockets.

We guess what we’re saying is that while Texas is known for things like Football, BBQ, Country music and cowboys boots… it seems there are just as many things on the other end of the spectrum that run deep there, too.

Cost of moving:

The costs of moving to Texas can depend on a variety of factors. How far are you moving? Do you need more than one truck? Do you need to storage? One way to gauge the costs of moving to Texas is to use a moving cost calculator to begin to plan within your budget.

A few final thoughts on moving to Texas.

With hundreds of thousands of people moving to Texas every day, there is some obvious charm to the lone star state. As long as you can stand the heat, we feel pretty confident you’ll find a spot that feels like home in Texas. And, if you need some help moving there, well, you know who to call.

The post Is Moving to Texas Right for You? Updated for 2023 appeared first on Bellhop.

Arizona will surprise you. For example, it snows here –  75 inches or so in the northern regions, more at the ski resorts. Barringer Crater, one of the best preserved meteor craters in the world, is here. It’s one of the top fly fishing destinations in the country – and it’s the only place to find the Arizona trout. There are pine forests, mountains (26 mountain peaks soaring above 10,000 feet are in Arizona) and waterfalls. And it has more than its share of Hummingbirds. 

Yes, even though it’s the only state that contains parts of the four major North American deserts – Great Basin, Mojave, Chihuahuan and Sonoran – Arizona is much more than a hot desert with cool cactuses and the Grand Canyon.

There’s more to love about Arizona than its beauty, the state has a great personality too. Late to statehood – Arizona is our 48^th state, and didn’t join the nation until 1912  – history meets technology here, with a culture that melds the best of the west with a thriving economy and a low cost of living. 

Whether you’re retired or looking to get hired, raising a family or just starting out – Arizona can be a great place to live. And we can help you get there, we’re Bellhop and we have local movers all across Arizona – Phoenix, Tucson, Glendale, Scottsdale and Flagstaff, just to name a few – and across the nation. Whether you’re moving cross country or across the street, you can count on us to deliver stress-free, trustworthy moving services. 

Looking for Long Distance Movers in Phoenix?

Getting to know Arizona

A little while back, U.S. News analyzed 125 metro areas in the United States in hopes to determine the best places to live based on quality of life and the job market. Phoenix, Arizona actually ranked number 17 for the best places to retire and ranked number 19 for the best places to live. (For more information on moving to Phoenix, check out our city guide here.)

1. Let’s address the elephant in the room (a.k.a the Grand Canyon).

Okay, so one of our biggest sells on Arizona is the fact that the Grand Canyon is there… a natural wonder so wondrous that people travel not just across the United States but across the world as a whole to see it’s wondrousness in person.

How many people can say they live in a place where the Grand Canyon is practically in their backyard? Our point exactly.

2. The Grand Canyon is just the beginning of Arizona’s incredible landscape, though.

But, besides the Grand Canyon, Arizona is known for possessing a stunning landscape filled with ample opportunities to go hiking, mountain biking, trail running, camping, exploring, swimming and white water rafting.

To give you an idea of just how vast the Arizona wilderness is, the state sports two times the amount of wilderness than all of the Midwest put together. The rivers that flow through the state make it one of the top fly fishing destinations in the country. That’s unbelievable.

Arizona offers such a vast playground of fun activities to do outside we could commit an entire blog to the subject. But, for the sake of your time and ours, just know that if you’re an outdoorsmen (or outdoorswomen), Arizona is a place you should definitely consider calling home.

Pros and cons of moving to Arizona: The good, the bad, and the ugly.

Like any state, Arizona comes with its own unique set of strengths and weaknesses. But what one person sees as a negative may be their neighbor’s favorite thing about the state. So keep an open mind – and know that locals tend to be thrilled about living in Arizona. 

First, let’s get the not-so-great stuff out of the way:

Droughts are nothing out of the ordinary in Arizona. According to the Arizona Department of Water Resources, the state has been in a drought for a whopping 29 years. If you move there, you may become one of the 438.7 thousand people impacted. That puts the demand for water higher than ever, but the supply is just not there (in most areas). 

The above-average cost of living is another reason to think long and hard before moving to Arizona. We’ll admit: it’s not too crazy when you get down to the numbers (only 6.4% higher than the national average), but the costs certainly add up, especially if you’re moving with a family. Utilities and transportation are two of the areas that surpass the nation’s average. Of course, we can’t forget the biggest ticket item: the cost of buying a home. That brings us to our next point…

Housing costs are 19.7% higher in Arizona than in other parts of the U.S. Homes sell for a median rate of $349,300, which might deter you from buying if you’re moving to Arizona from another state that is at or below the national average of $291,700. Of course, where you move to in Arizona can make a big impact on the price. For example, you may find cheaper homes in a place like Tucson than in Scottsdale. All in all, the best way to find an affordable home is to spend time looking, narrow down a neighborhood (make sure it’s safe), and make an offer when something is in your price range. It may take time to find something that checks all your boxes, but the wait might be worth it to you. 

Low academic ratings are another downside of raising school-aged kids in Arizona. The state ranks #48 out of all states and the District of Columbia in terms of schools. That’s not to say there aren’t great schools in Arizona (BASIS Chandler, BASIS Scottsdale, and BASIS Flagstaff–to name a few). However, the state, as a whole, rates low in terms of academics. 

Traffic is yet another drawback of life in Arizona. While this doesn’t affect you in all parts of Arizona (we’re looking at you, small cities), moving to major cities like Phoenix opens you up to long commute times and potential road hazards. Phoenix has even been dubbed one of the nation’s top-10 “least safe cities to drive in.”

The Pros of living in Arizona

The University of Arizona is in–you guessed it–Arizona! And in case you haven’t heard about this top-performing school before, it comes in at #105 on the list of “Best Colleges.” The school is located in beautiful Tucson, Arizona, and welcomes students from all over every year. Some famous people who have attended the school include Raul Castro, Luke Walton, Jerry Bruckheimer, and Kourtney Kardashian. 

Affordable healthcare is a top reason to relocate to Arizona. Okay, you know how we said that Arizona’s cost of living surpasses the national average? Well, while it comes in more expensive to live in Arizona than other parts of the U.S. in general, it’s actually cheaper to get healthcare services there on average (2.7% cheaper, in case you’re curious). So, if you see the doctor a lot, are getting older, or have health concerns, moving to The Grand Canyon State might just be worth it. 

The cost of food is also less in Arizona. Groceries are 3.9% cheaper than the national average. With inflation here, it’s no wonder why this is attractive to families. One report even shows that a family of four people could get away with an annual food budget of $9,338 in 2022, which comes to just over $778 per month. That is “the 18th lowest amount among states.” Just keep in mind that food prices might be higher in cities like Phoenix (reportedly 2.5% higher in Phoenix vs. Kingman). 

Sports are just one more reason to love life in Arizona. Fun fact: did you know that Phoenix is 1 in 12 cities throughout the country with NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL teams? In terms of professional teams, the state has the Arizona Cardinals (NFL), Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), Arizona Coyotes (NHL), and Phoenix Suns (NBA). Whether you’re into football or basketball, you’re sure to find plenty to do and like-minded people to meet in beautiful Arizona. There are also numerous sports bars and restaurants to go to if you like watching a big game in that type of setting instead of a giant stadium with roaring fans. One of the best parts of Arizona is that you have both options!

Grid-style cities can be found all throughout Arizona. What does that mean exactly? Well, while the traffic in major cities like Phoenix might be horrendous, it’s not too hard to find your way around. That’s because the streets all meet at right angles, creating a grid of sorts. 

Arizona’s economy and cost of living 

Arizona’s economy is strong. Employment has grown at an annualized rate of 5.2% over the five years to 2022, overperforming the national average of 3.7%, according to IbisWorld. The long-run forecast calls for Arizona to continue to outpace national growth, though probably at slower rate. Teamed with the state’s low cost of living, Arizona is obviously a place where you can thrive and prosper. 

The state has embraced technology startups and forward-thinking companies. Arizona was one of the first states to open their cities up to ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft, and the state government has been bullish on forming key partnerships and building stronger relationships with universities and tech companies to maintain this innovative trajectory. A lot of interesting tech research is being done here, particularly in the self-driving vehicle development.

Tucson is the place to work if you’re interested in aerospace, defense and space. Tempe is known for its business services, manufacturing, healthcare, biotech, and technology. It’s also one of the best cities for remote workers. Phoenix also has a reputation for a plethora of tech jobs, particularly in financial, education, healthcare and aerospace industries. Scottsdale is centered on tourism and hospitality. Arizona’s original export activities – agriculture and mining – remain strong outside of the metro areas. 

Best Arizona cities to live in

Scottsdale

Scottsdale is a great choice for active retirees, with a vibrant downtown, thriving arts scene, a gorgeous riverfront, and over 200 beautiful golf courses. But don’t write it off if you’re still saving for retirement, the city is also home for startups, has excellent public schools, and a reasonable cost of living. And if the idea of a spa day thrills you, you’ll have dozens to pick from here. 

Mesa

Hot, hot, hot – but gorgeous. Mesa is located just outside of Phoenix and is surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, so if you crave dry heat, you’ll find it here. Ditto golf courses, there are 25 in the area. Mesa is also known for its excellent pools, lively arts scene, and its extremely festive Christmas lights. You’ll also be able to enjoy plenty of outdoor activities like golfing and horseback riding, and good nightlife.

Gilbert

An exceptionally low crime rate, almost equally low cost of living, natural beauty, great schools, and a strong sense of community make Gilbert a great place to raise a family or retire. 

Phoenix

Opportunity, diversity, amenities and beauty, Arizona’s state capitol has it all. An exceptionally large number of tech firms are based or have offices here, making it a great place for anyone seeking work in STEM fields. You get all the amenities of big city living – arts, music, an abundance of dining choices, shopping and four professional sports teams to root for – at a very reasonable cost of living. Heads up though, Phoenix is scorching hot, the nation’s hottest major city. 

Flagstaff

If you want to live in Arizona, but summer all-year-round really isn’t your thing, check out Flagstaff. You can enjoy all four seasons here, in a city that’s known for its friendly residents, pine forests, ski and hiking trails and other outdoor activities. As a college town, Flagstaff is both lively and affordable, and boasts a historic downtown packed with dining, shopping, art exhibits, live music and other events. 

Tucson

Tucson’s flourishing visual and performing arts scene complements its beautiful desert backdrop. Despite the expansive desert, mountain ranges stretch in every direction and provide opportunities for skiing. In between mountain biking and enjoying the views, Tucson is also ideal for gallery hopping, museums, and exploring Barrio Viejo’s authentic Mexican cuisine and adobe architecture. Don’t miss making a wish at El Tiradito!

Making your move to Arizona

For more information on the best places to live in Arizona, check out our complete guide to Arizona’s top places to live. If you want to go even further with your research, check out our City Guides for moving to Tucson and moving to Phoenix. 

And, as always, if you need help with your move, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Like we said, we coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Arizona and we would love to help.

The post Is Moving to Arizona Right for You? Updated 2023 appeared first on Bellhop.

For some, relocating to the peachy state of Florida can be a tough decision. It’s always easier when you know what to expect. That’s why we packed this article with information about Florida to see if it’s the right place for you!

Year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, balmy breezes, easy access to super fresh seafood and no state income tax – doesn’t sound too shabby, right? And plenty of people agree, thousands have moved to Florida since 2020. The rise in remote work is one factor that enabled people to make the move, and local professional opportunities abound in the urban areas of the state. Key cities, particularly Tampa and the Tampa Bay area, have become thriving tech, science, aviation, high-tech manufacturing and healthcare hubs. And Florida’s enthusiastic embrace of the “fresh start for everyone” ethos makes it a perfect launch pad for startups. 

If you’re contemplating making a move to Florida, we’re here to help. We’re Bellhop, and we’re Florida movers, specifically Jacksonville movers, Orlando movers, Tampa movers, St. Petersburg movers, Miami movers, Ft. Lauderdale movers, and West Palm Beach movers. Actually, we’re happy to help you move to or from virtually anywhere in Florida.

We know our state, and we’re going to share that knowledge with you – our soon-to-be neighbor. Welcome to the Sunshine State!

Looking for Long Distance Miami Movers?

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What’s so great about living in Florida? 

As we mentioned previously, most of us have been to Florida on vacation. But, vacationing in Florida is much different than living in Florida. As sunburnt vacationers frolicking around in Florida’s theme parks and resorts, we’re only seeing one (very small side) of a rather complex state. Here’s a few things that makes Florida so sunny for the people that actually live there.

Florida is a big sunny state with a lot of personality.

Other states have small pockets of quirkiness, Florida happily prides itself on being the overall most eccentric state in the nation. It’s also the third largest state by population in the United States, with more than 22 million residents. 122.4 million tourists visited the Sunshine State in 2021, and during the height of the travel season, roads get snarled, beaches get crowded, and restaurants are packed. Right around the time that the tourists leave, the heat and humidity soars and people start fretfully looking at hurricane tracking sites. 

So, given that life in Florida has some unique challenges, why do so many people choose to live there? That 1,350 miles of breathtaking coastline might have something to do with it, along with the springs, rivers, pine forests, wildlife, coral reefs, barrier islands, low rolling hills, underwater caves and plenty of swimming holes (that you might want to be careful when swimming in because… alligators).

It’s a gorgeous state. And while parts of it have been thoughtlessly overdeveloped, there is still so much beauty here – from the tiny lizards that leap about on everyone’s lawn to the big, gentle manatees that drift about in the waterways. Living here has a vacation vibe that lingers no matter how long you’ve been a resident. 

Picking the perfect Florida home

In addition to the lovely landscape, Florida boasts some nice diversity in its cities too, which seem to offer something for just about everyone. For the young professional there is Miami, which is bursting at the seams with culture and art and a variety of ethnicities and a party scene that you’d have to experience to fully understand. Head to Tampa for professional opportunities in virtually every high-tech industry, along with southern charm that is annually disrupted by a pirate takeover. (Gasparilla). Tallahassee offers big opportunities in government and financial fields, along with its nine beautiful “canopy roads” – streets lined with old trees that are a delight to explore. 

Then, for the individual looking to live in a Florida city that has big city amenities along with a true community feel, there is St. Petersburg. And, finally, for the baby boomers looking to kick back and settle down, there is The Villages, a retirement community that’s the size of a good-sized city with 139,900 very active adult residents. There’s also Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Destin, Vero Beach, Daytona … and the list goes on.

• For more information on moving to Orlando, check out our city guide here. 
• For more information on moving to Tampa, check out our city guide here. 
• For more information on moving to Miami, check out our city guide here. 

The pros and cons of moving to Florida

It’s not all sunshine in Florida. Among the many good things, there is some bad and even ugly there too. We’re going to give you the good first and then follow things up with the bad and the ugly.

The Pros of Living in Florida 

No state income tax

Unless you’re moving here from one of the other no-tax states (Alaska, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Taxes, Washington, and Wyoming) you’ll have extra money in your paycheck. This is a very good thing. 

Near the water

No matter where you live in Florida, a beautiful beach is not far away. The public beaches of Amelia Island, Clearwater, Delray, Grayton, Miami, Panama, Pensacola, Siesta Key and St. Pete’s are all outstanding – and there are so many more. Naples and the southwest barrier islands also boast amazing beaches (and amenities) and are in the process of recovering from Hurricane Ian. Amazingly, some of the barrier beach hotels have announced that they intend to reopen in the winter of 2023. 

Life outdoors

Much of your time here (except in the bleakness of mid-summer) will be spent outside, whether you’re socializing with friends, dining out, having a drink, grabbing a cup of coffee, attending events … it’s probably happening outside.

Appreciation of individualism

In much of the state, people tend to adopt a “live and let live” attitude. When your neighbor is standing outside, screaming into a howling hurricane, clutching an American flag that’s flapping in the wind – that’s the Florida spirit. Embrace it.

The Cons of Living in Florida

Florida has extreme weather

Every year from June 1st to November 30th is Hurricane season. Tornados are common events when there’s a hurricane swirling around the state, and can occur at other times as well. Fierce thunderstorms are an everyday event in summer. And it gets really, really hot and humid. Face it: you will never have a good hair day again once you move to Florida. And you will be on high alert during the peak of the hurricane season (late August through end of October). Locals call it the “Paradise Tax” – the cost of living in a place that is nearly perfect.

Florida has critters

Florida has an exciting assortment of animal friends that will either delight, terrify or annoy you. There are many tiny bugs that live to bite/sting you. There are exceptionally large roaches (we call them Palmetto bugs) that flee from danger by flying to the highest spot nearby – that is often your head. Our snakes range from 16 foot-long boa constrictors to tiny rattlesnakes that are barely a foot-long. We’re the only U.S. state to have crocodiles, and we have plenty of alligators too – assume the later are present in any body of water bigger than a small puddle.

Florida’s job market and economy

Just like the local weather, Florida’s job market is hot, hot, hot. The state’s unemployment rate has remained below the national rate for almost two years, and Florida has a solid reputation as a very business friendly environment. According to Floridainsight.gov, the state has nine key industries, which span a wide variety of fields – from clean technologies to aerospace, fintech to agriculture, logistics to hospitality and healthcare. That means there’s a job in Florida for you. And if you’re looking to move your corporate headquarters here or start a business – Florida will welcome you with open arms. 

Florida’s economy is the fourth-largest in the United States, with a $1.3 trillion gross state product (GSP) as of 2022.

What’s it like to actually live in Florida?

The money is good. The weather is really good. But, what’s it like to actually live here?

Folks who live in Florida claim there is something called the Honeymoon phase, where – for the first few months to a year – everything is amazing. It feels like being on an extended vacation. 

And guess what? That feeling continues for years – even after you have a clearer view of Florida’s unique annoyances. Yes, even though Florida has horrendous drivers that don’t believe in using turn signals, an extended humid-and-hot summer, some seriously strange (yet often endearing!) residents, and various other irritating quirks, it’s still a wonderful place to live. 

Your actual day-to-day experience will vary according to where in the state you plan to move. The further north you go in Florida, the more “south” you get. Move to Miami, and enjoy the melting pot-Caribbean-Latino vibe. Mid-state and on up into the panhandle feels more like living in the deep south, with plenty of charm and polite, friendly folks. 

Inland is really hot during the summer, living on the coast lets you enjoy cool breezes (at least sometimes) but puts you in the front line for hurricanes. Any waterway should be evaluated for potential flooding – check FEMA flood maps online for the areas you’re interested in before you buy or rent. People do live happily near the coast or rivers, canals and other waterways but it helps to be clear about flooding potential so that you can come up with a sensible evacuation plan. Don’t wait until the last minute, come up with that plan ASAP – know where you can go in various scenarios. Figure out if you need storm shutters or other safety features, whether you want to rent surge-proof storage space for valuables, etc. and get that all sorted out before hurricane season (June 1-Nov.30)

Cost of moving to Florida

The costs of moving to Florida depends on a variety of factors. How far are you moving? How much stuff do you have – and how much of it needs special handling? Is there easy access to your old and new homes? Do you need more than one truck? Do you need storage to keep your things safe while you travel to your new home? One way to gauge the costs of moving to Florida is to use a moving cost calculator to get the info you need to plan your budget.

Let’s go! Making the move to Florida

With beautiful weather, a booming economy, and the ability to find an affordable place to live, this is a great next step. Whether you’ve found your perfect apartment in Orlando or a great  Tampa rental, we think Florida could be the perfect spot for your next move.

And if you need help moving to Florida, Bellhop would be more than happy to assist. We’re on a mission to make every move as stress-free as humanly possible. Reduce the stress of relocating, reach out to Bellhop Florida movers today!

The post Is Moving to Florida Right for You? A 2023 Guide. appeared first on Bellhop.

Updated October 2022

Tennessee has it all – a low cost of living, natural beauty, amazing music and food, friendly people and a reputation for enthusiastically stepping up and taking care of business. The state earned its “Volunteer State” nickname during the 19th century, when tens of thousands of Tennesseans – including Sam Houston and David Crockett – signed up for voluntary military service. 

The state has a truly inspiring history, but chances are good that you’d also like to know about everyday life here now. How’s the economy, the cost of living- can you live the good life in Tennessee without spending too much? And what cities are best for a young professional, couples with kids, established folks or retirees? Read on – Bellhop helps people move to new homes across the nation, but we have a special place in our hearts for Tennessee – we’re based here. We know this state, and can tell you it’s a wonderful place to live but (like anywhere else) it’s not perfect. This is an honest review, including pros and cons, of everything you need to know about the Great State of Tennessee.

Bellhop helps people move all over Tennessee! We provide services in:

• Antioch
• Chattanooga
• East Nashville
• Franklin
• Hendersonville
• Knoxville
• Murfreesboro
• Nashville

Let’s start with some traits for which Tennessee is most famous.

Tennessee – Southern Charm and Hospitality

Tennessee‘s southern charm makes everything easy here. Locals like to keep things simple and friendly. Tennesseans are nice, offering smiles and warm welcomes as you walk through town. It’s true no matter where in the state you live. The mood tends to be upbeat here. And with a low cost of living, and a high quality of life – there’s plenty to be happy about. Sure, the summers are steamy and brutally hot, but Autumn is glorious here and the climate is described as moderate with four distinct seasons. 

The Music Scene

Memphis is known as the “Home of the Blues” and the “Birthplace of Rock and Roll.” Nashville is “Music City” and the “Country Music Capital of the World.” Bristol is “The Birthplace of Country Music.” Yes, music is huge here. The industry supports 56,000+ jobs in Nashville alone. Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Gregg and Duane Allman, Rosanne Cash and Miley Cyrus came from here, and Chris Stapleton calls our state home. 

Tennessee‘s music scene is state-wide, and runs the gamut from country to blues (as you’d expect) but you can easily find  bluegrass, rock, pop, Americana, gospel, classical, jazz and pretty much anything else at local bars, restaurants, music venues, and music festivals all across the state. 

Mother Nature Loves Tennessee

Tennessee runs from the Great Smoky Mountains to the east of the Mississippi River. We may be landlocked, but we have more than our share of cascading waterfalls, rolling hills, impressive mountains, waterways, and swimming holes.

The Smoky Mountains is the most visited national park in the country and is synonymous with Appalachian culture. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, walking, fishing, spotting wildlife, and exploring some of the prettiest terrains in the world here. The mountains are especially gorgeous in the fall – just as beautiful as Maine and Vermont. And if you are there in June, the fireflies are truly spectacular.  

You can also visit the 650,000 acres of Cherokee National Forest, where you can go rafting along the Ocoee River, visit Bald River Falls, fish the rivers, and camp without crowds. Another top attraction is Sunset Rock atop Chattanooga’s Lookout Mountain, where you can see a total of four states from a single vantage point –– Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, and North Carolina.

Caves Galore!

And if you have a fondness for caves, we have about 10,000 of them. Some of our caves even have waterfalls. At 145 feet, Ruby Falls is the largest underground waterfall in the United States and we’re here to tell you it is gorgeous – even at night. Other popular attractions are the Raccoon Mountain and Tuckaleechee Caverns.

Tennessee Parks

If Smoky Mountains National Park isn’t enough, you can also visit Cherokee National Forest: At 650,000 acres, you can go rafting along the Ocoee River, visit Bald River Falls, fish the rivers, and camp without crowds.

If urban parks are more your thing, then be sure to visit magnificent Centennial Park in Nashville. It is scenically beautiful and hosts many activities within its 132 acres.

Tennessee Is for Foodies

Sit right down and get a taste of our southern cooking. In Nashville, grab a plate of crispy hot fried chicken, Mouthwatering BBQ is Memphis’ claim to food fame (love that pulled pork shoulder!). And if you’re not a diehard BBQ purist, you’ll love some of Memphis’ more unusual offerings, which include BBQ pizza, spaghetti, tacos, baloney and pizza. The entire state is also famous for its catfish, cornbread, country ham, moon pies and many other dishes. Be sure to explore the farmer’s markets too. 

What’s to drink? Sweet tea, craft beer and our local adult beverage – Tennessee whiskey.

Activities in Tennessee

Between all that eating and drinking, you’ll have plenty to do. Here are some well-known attractions and festivals.

Popular Sites and Theme Parks

Since both Elvis and Dolly have called Tennessee home, you can get to know them better. Graceland is the country’s third most popular attraction, receiving 600,000 visitors a year. As theme parks go, Dollywood is the country’s sixth most popular attraction. You can even watch her sing there.  

Other historical sites include the Country Music Hall of Fame and the National Civil Rights Museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of Martin Luther King. 

Other attractions include world-class festivals and fairs like Bonnaroo, Mountain Laurel Festival, CMA Music Festival, Daffodil Day, Trails & Trilliums, Mountain Laurel Festival, Slawburger Festival, and much more.

Plenty of Water to Cool Off

It gets hot here in Tennessee during the summer, but thankfully you have half a dozen rivers and nearly 1400 lakes. Water sports are a popular activity. Combined with all the biking and hiking and gorgeous scenery, Tennessee is a wonderful place to be outdoors.

Income and Employment

Tennessee is currently enjoying its lowest-ever unemployment rate, just under 3.4%, a few points under the national average. State-wide, the average salary is between $32,000 and $34,000, but it is quite a bit higher in the biggest cities. The average salary in Nashville is $51,000. Chattanooga is $44,000 and Memphis is $47,000. Keep in mind that the cost of living in Tennessee is also very low. We will get into this more in a minute. The fastest growth is in professional and business services and the leisure and hospitality sectors, followed by the trade, transportation, and utilities sector. So, basically, jobs are pretty easy to find here, especially in the urban areas. 

We’re home to some big corporations, including

• FedEx
• Eastman Chemical Co. 
• HCA
• Dollar General
• Community Health Systems
• Cracker Barrel
• AutoZone
• Brookdale Senior Living
• International Paper
• Envision Healthcare
• LifePoint Health

Healthcare and music are also big here, particularly in Nashville. Memphis has a thriving hospitality industry. Chattanooga is strong on tech and popular with startups. Combined with its low cost of living, the city is a hotspot for entrepreneurs. The state encourages sustainable energy businesses, innovative technology, and supports its artisan craftspeople with marketing campaigns touting “Made In Tennessee” products.

Low Cost Of Living 

Tennessee’s cost of living is 15-25% below the national average, depending on where you reside in the state. It is also one of only nine states without a personal income tax. Until very recently, the state charged interest and dividends on to income derived from stocks and bonds at 6%, through what was called the Hall Tax. That was rescinded in 2021. Tennessee’s sales tax is currently 7%.

Tennesseans also enjoy access to free community college for graduates who earned their high school diploma in the state. Combined with the low cost of living and ability to roll credits into universities, you can save significant money on your education here in Tennessee. Free schools include thirteen community colleges and twenty-seven technical colleges. 

Tennessee’s Real Estate Market

Tennessee does have luxury homes, but the housing market here is one of the most affordable states in the country. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from $500 to $700 in many areas. Still, Nashville rent runs around $1,550 for a one-bedroom apartment, so it definitely varies depending on where you live. 

The cities with the highest cost of living in Tennessee are: 

• Nashville
• Brentwood
• Franklin
• Nolensville
• Germantown
• Mount Juliet
• Nashville

The cities with the lowest cost of living include:

• Chattanooga
• Johnson City
• Alcoa
• Murfreesboro
• Smyrna
• Clarksville

The same goes for home prices. State-wide, the typical home runs around $230,000. Middle Tennessee runs around $400,000.

The Best Places to Live In Tennessee

Knoxville – If you’re just starting your career, have a look at Knoxville. Known as the “happiest place to work in,” It offers affordable housing, a low cost of living, and plenty of fun things to do in the great outdoors, including boating and swimming on the Tennessee River.

Franklin is a historical town that is living in the future. If you have a career, or want one, in any of the STEM fields, this town may be your perfect home. The local government works closely with industry leaders to foster a thriving economy, and some of those STEM jobs pay exceptionally well – think NYC salaries in the six figures. And if you have kids, the schools here are amazing – with a strong focus on science and technology from kindergarten on up. By the time kids are in high-school they are programming self-driving cars. All this in a city that has a thriving downtown, beautiful historic homes, an incredibly low cost of living and is just 20 minutes from Nashville. 

Johnson – is an excellent place to start a family. Houses can be relatively expensive, but rent is cheap. You will be neighbors with other people beginning their new lives, making it a great way to build a foundation. There are also tons of nature and parks, waterfalls, rivers, and mountains. The area is also a draw for history and art lovers.

Bartlett is a suburb located a mere 15 minutes from Memphis, and offers a calm, peaceful vibe with affordable housing prices, its own theater and recreation center, parks, a thriving farmers market and a great bluegrass festival. Like Franklin, Bartlett is focused on offering great opportunities to its residents, with a focus on sustainable energy and life science technologies. 

Memphis – for such a famous city, Memphis has a surprisingly low cost of living, making it a great place for first home buyers. You also get good schools to boot, including colleges. It is a very active city, too. If you love rock n’ roll and the blues, it all started here. Indulge in the nightlife, festivals, restaurants and craft beers. Local faves for food include Felicia Suzanne’s (southern-style and seafood), The Four Way Soul Food Restaurant, and the Beauty Shop (eclectic southern). Be sure to visit Silky O’Sullivan’s to check out their tower-climbing, beer-drinking goats too. Yep, you read that right.  

Chattanooga -calling all entrepreneurs! “Gig City” supports startups, and you can ramp up fast from a talented pool of skilled workers – especially if you are involved in the tech field. There’s plenty to do in your downtime too. For food, check out Alleia, Public House, STIR, the Big River Grille and Taco Mamacita. Grab a drink or two at the Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery, the first distillery to craft whiskey in Chattanooga in over one hundred years. Chattanooga also has a thriving nightlife and entertainment scene, with plenty of bars clubs, live music, and festivals – including the Riverbend Music Festival, Three Sisters Bluegrass Festival, and the Moon River Music Festival – just to name a few.

Education: Public Schools Private Schools, and Higher Education

For 2021, Forbes Ranks Tennessee 35th in quality school systems, and it has the 7th lowest public school spending. There is some definite room for growth. As for colleges and universities, you are in great shape. Vanderbilt University is ranked 14th by U.S. News and World Report, and the state is home to other quality schools like the  University of Tennessee, the University of Memphis, Belmont University, and The University of the South, and Middle Tennessee State University. 

Do you have kids? The top public and private school districts for an above-average education include: 

• Germantown
• Maryville
• Arlington
• Kingsport Lawrence County
• Roane County
• Cumberland County 
• Jefferson County
•  Gibson Co SP Dist
• Dyer County 
• Greene County 

For public education, there are many quality schools, including:

• White Station High School
• Campus School
• Houston High School
• Germantown High School
• Middle College High School
• Hardin Valley Academy
• L&N STEM Academy 
• Farragut High School
• Greeneville City Schools

For private education, some highly-rated choices include: 

• St. Mary’s Episcopal School
• Lausanne Collegiate School
• The Ensworth School
• Hutchison School
• Christian Academy 

What is Bad About Living in Tennessee? 

Summer Heat and Other Weather Facts

What is the Year-Round weather in Tennessee?

In general, Tennessee is temperate, with mild winters and hot summers. Much like other southern states, the summer months between June and August can be brutal. You’ll be hot and sweaty and looking for air conditioning. The good news is you will get used to it, or at least we have. The warmest spots are Central Basin and Sequatchie Valley.

Tennessee can experience some cool winters and even some snow. The state averages 9 inches a year, the most falling in Eastern Tennessee.  You can ski in one area of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Spring is typically warm and rainy. After the warm summers, the fall seasons average 60 degrees.

Tennessee also has occasional tornadoes during the tornado season and can get heavy thunderstorms. Other disasters include:

• Flash floods
• Winter storms
• Tropical depressions
• Earthquakes

Low Minimum Wage

Unfortunately, Tennessee‘s minimum wage is low at a $7.25/hr starting minimum wage. Still, many businesses simply ignore it and pay higher.

Gangs and Crime

What are the most dangerous places to live in Tennessee?

Unfortunately, Tennessee does have its share of crime, particularly in East Tennessee. Every prominent gang has a presence there. Still, you can avoid those more dangerous areas of town.

Some cities worth noting are:

• Crossville
• Dyersburg
• Athens
• Memphis
• Newport
• Chattanooga
• Sweetwater

Transportation

Though the state has decent public transportation, use a car if you need to make your appointment. Traffic gets busy. 

Making the Move to Tennessee

We’ve said it before, and we will say it again: Tennessee is a great state and one certainly worth calling home. If you are interested in making a jump here, don’t hesitate to give us a call. As Tennessee movers, Bellhop knows the state and looks forward to helping you become a local too. Welcome to Tennessee!

By the Bellhop Team.

The post Moving To Tennessee: What You Need to Know appeared first on Bellhop.

Are you planning to move to another state? What an exciting time! Your mind must be filled with thoughts of your new life and all the fun experiences you will have.

You may also be nervous wondering what considerations to keep in mind when moving out of state. Fear not. Your friends at Bellhop are here to help. We have a massive team, many of whom have lived all over the United States, and our work as interstate movers has moved people into new homes all across the country. We know what to consider when moving to another state.This blog post will tell you the most important things to know. We cover everything from deciding where you should live to what costs to look for, what packing steps to follow, and how to organize your big move.

Hiring movers for your long-distance move shouldn’t be a luxury. That’s why we offer customizable, professional moving services so that you only pay for what you need.

How to Move to Another State

Keep these considerations in mind to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free move.   

You Will Need Some Extra Money 

Closing costs are only part of what you’ll need. Determine a moving budget and set aside 10% more than you think. For example, if you have done your calculations and find you need $1,000 to move from Nashville, TN to Austin, TX, we recommend saving $1,100 as a buffer to cover unexpected costs along the way.

Also, you should have 3-6 months of living expenses saved up – especially if you are moving without a job. This means that if your rent will be $1000 a month and your living expenses will be $1000 a month, save $6,000 – $12,000 before your big move.

Then there is the cost of hiring movers. How much will you spend? Read our previous post about how much movers cost, or we can provide a free estimate here at Bellhop. We built our business by offering breezy low-stress moving services at a reasonable price.

You also need to consider other moving costs, such as shipping your car across the country and costs associated with hotels and meals out while you’re away from home. Utility deposits and connection fees will also need to be factored in, and if renting, you will need a deposit and first and last months’ rent. Plus, you’ll need products to set up your new house like shower curtains, rods, and bath mats, as well as cleaning supplies and groceries.

If you currently own property, selling or renting it will help cover these costs. You can also rent at your new location to keep upfront costs down while ensuring you buy later in the best location. You will avoid wasting significant money!

Research Your New City and State

You will benefit substantially from doing early location research online. Review the state’s background, get a handle on the weather and topography, and learn more about the cities and towns. Look at considerations like each area’s culture, activities, and quality of life.

If the state is nearby, consider taking a road trip before moving to get a feel for life there. If you have flexibility in where you will live, visit everything from the larger cities to smaller communities. Consider everything. 

How to Secure Housing in Another State

You may be planning to purchase or rent an apartment or home, or maybe you need temporary housing while you get yourself situated. Jump online to get a good idea of the current housing situation in your favorite locations and understand the difference in housing prices in surrounding areas. For homes, try Zillow and Trulia, and for rentals, try Zillow Rentals, Trulia Rentals, HotPads, and Zumper. Use Google Maps or Bing Maps to get a better understanding of locations. 

How do you pack for out of state?

If you’re packing for an out-of-state move, stick to the essentials. Ask yourself, “What is the weather like?” (That will influence your moving out-of-state checklist.)

If you’re relocating from the chilly Pacific Northwest to sunny Florida, you can probably sell your winter clothes, snowmobiles, etc. One of Bellhop’s best packing tips for moving out of state is to only pack what you need. Why add more stress on your plate when you don’t need to?

How do I start over and move out of state?

It’s never easy to start over and move out of state. However, it’s totally possible! 

First, you’ll want to figure out housing and a job. Next, it’s time to start packing. Then, you’re ready to schedule long-distance movers. Check out our checklist for moving to make things as easy as possible for you. That will answer all your questions and more regarding, “How do I prepare for a move across the country?” 

How to Get a Job in Another State

If you don’t have a new job lined up, you should know what to expect in each location. What job you want can influence where you will live in the state.

Many online resources will help you find a job. Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter are some popular ones. AngelList is the go-to site if you are looking for work in startups. LinkedIn is also a solid place to join or create professional groups, add connections, post articles, and showcase your business profile for potential employment.

Are There Cost of Living Differences? 

Use a cost of living calculator to determine cost differences between your current home and your future residence. Look for unexpected costs, such as tax requirements. Each state has different tax rules, and knowing them can save you significant money. 

Cost of moving:

The costs of moving to another state can depend on a variety of factors. How far are you moving? Do you need more than one truck? Do you need to storage? One way to gauge the costs of moving to another state is to use a moving cost calculator to begin to plan within your budget.

Know Commuting Driving Times

If you hate driving, commute times may affect where you decide to live. You can look for locations close to work and  Use Google Maps to know typical arrival times and learn about rush hours. 

Learn the Schools in Your Ideal City or Town

If you have children, the school district you choose is crucial to their education. This factor alone often influences where people decide to move. I can even affect property rates.

Every city has districts that are better than others, so even if you have your heart set on a specific city, you can boost the education for your children by selecting an area of town within a strong school district. Check out GreatSchools.org to learn about nearby schools.

What is the Crime Rate? 

Is your ideal living area dangerous? Use Neighborhood Scout to learn about local crime rates. You can also stay at a hotel or Airbnb for a first-hand look at an area before you buy a home. 

Know Your Health, Auto, and Home Insurance Costs

You may have changes in medical costs. Your current medical insurance company may not work well in your new area, and you may need a new provider who charges different rates and new deductibles. Also, make sure you understand any changes in coverage for procedures and medications. 

For auto insurance, be sure to change your address on file. Rates may increase, or you may even pay less or more for insurance. The same may apply to homeowners insurance options.

Change All Family Driver Licenses and Vehicle Registration

Once you have nailed down a place to live, you can focus on other necessities like your driver’s license and vehicle registration. You may need to plan to secure an ideal appointment time. Reservations can book out far in advance and some states may require you to change the license as soon as ten days after arrival. Others may offer a 6-month grace period. Also, make you have all the correct documents on hand to confirm your identity.

Other Elements to Add to Your Moving Plan: Utilities, Documents, and More!

Many moving companies suggest planning your move early, and there are good reasons for this. You may picture reserving a truck, organizing packing supplies, and boxing up items as the bulk of the work, but in reality, there is a long list of tasks to do before, during, and after a move.

As professional movers, we at Bellhop suggest planning 60 days so you have enough time for them all. To help further, we have used our experience at out-of-state moves to create a comprehensive list of moving steps in chronological order. You no longer need to worry about forgetting important tasks or which steps to do first.

Our list covers everything from reserving moving dates to informing your post office, credit cards, and cell phone carrier of your new mailing address, and packing important information such as social security paperwork, fingerprint documents, insurance documents, and legal documents. Will you need internet access? The list includes that, too. You will also learn how to organize utilities and ensure you get security deposits back from leasing companies.Download our free list here!

Find Interstate Movers That Offer More than One Delivery Service Option

Relocating to your new city may require the help of a moving company, but where do you start? There are hundreds of companies to choose from.

Start by Comparing Moving Costs from Larger Companies

Large companies have good experience and are generally more established and reliable. You can also look at sites like Yelp to read customer reviews. Here is a useful guide with tips on how to compare moving company quotes.

Look for Long–Distance Movers

Long-distance movers often handle interstate moves. If you have a large move, full-service companies make the whole process easier. They know how to prepare for long moves, such as safeguarding valuable personal items over long distances on the road. Make sure the company has insurance in case of damages and learn what services are included in their company terminology.

Don’t Restrict Your Search for the Most Affordable Option.

Some added services are worth the price. Sometimes an expensive moving option includes valuable services at no charge.

Choose Companies that Offer a Range of Services

An ideal company offers a full range of services from simple truck rentals to moving staff and full, white-glove moves. Having a range helps you determine an option that fits your budget while still using a quality provider. For example, you can choose whether you should rent a truck or hire professional movers.

Keep in mind that Long-range DIY moves leave a lot of risk – especially when heavy lifting is involved. A mover’s pricing for full-service moves may be worth the cost. A company with experience tackling any level of move ensures you have a quality move that fits your budget. They can also be an innovative and budget-friendly option.

Check if Your Company Offers a Relocation Package 

Before finalizing your delivery service option, know if your employer offers a company relocation package from an employer. Be sure to evaluate it carefully to use it as much as possible. Package options can vary. Some companies also offer a free car rental as part of the package, while others may include a cash bonus. Be sure to know how relocation funds are distributed (monthly or as a lump sum.) You may be able to take advantage of a healthy tax deduction as well. Be sure to talk to a tax professional. 

Moving soon? Here’s your moving out-of-state checklist

From switching jobs to changing over your driver’s license, there are numerous things to consider when moving out of state. Below is a moving out-of-state checklist you can follow to keep your stress levels to a minimum: 

#1: Sell or donate unused items.

It’s been said before, and it’s worth saying again. Nothing moves a move along like a good spring cleaning! Our suggestion? Take a few days to sort through your items, say yay or nay, and separate everything into four piles (keep, donate, sell, or throw away). 

That will help decrease the amount of items you’re moving, making for a faster and more affordable move overall. (By the way, if you’d like to keep costs low, don’t forget to price different movers. You can check out Bellhop’s moving cost calculator here.) 

#2: Create a packing strategy.

Moving preparation is key to making your move as seamless as can be. Make sure to pack at least three weeks before your move so that you don’t have to scramble at the last minute. You’ll need labels in various colors so that you can designate a different color for each room, making it easier to find things in boxes. (As we both know, it’s easy for things to get lost in a big move!)

Our movers recommend packing the items and areas you use the least in the beginning (think: the garage, attic, and basement). Other ideas include holiday decorations and out-of-state season clothes. Once you have a packing strategy in place, your move will be a whole lot easier. 

#3: Secure housing.

If you’re moving to a new state alone, consider renting for at least a year before buying. That way, you don’t end up stuck in a city or state that you don’t love just to keep up with a mortgage. Renting first gives you some much-needed flexibility, which is just what you need during a big life change, such as a cross-country move.

Some options for housing include roommates, shared housing, and apartments. Of course, if you’re moving your family out of state, your checklist might include finding an affordable home for rent so that there’s plenty of room for your littles and dog. 

#4: Start applying to jobs.

If you have something in savings, you don’t necessarily need a job before moving to a new city or state. However, securing employment beforehand can make things much easier if you don’t have a nest egg. 

Check out some job boards (Indeed, LinkedIn, Snagajob, Monster, etc.) before moving day to kick-start your job search. Also, don’t forget to talk to any family, friends, or coworkers you have that live in your target city or state. You never know who might have something for you.

#5: Schedule movers.

While it’s possible to DIY a move to a new state, working with long-distance movers can take a lot off your plate. Movers like Bellhop can handle everything from loading your items onto a delivery truck, organizing them to minimize the chance of breakage during transit, delivering your items from point A to B, and unloading them into your new apartment or house.

Try to schedule your move on a Friday if possible so that your movers have a full weekend to do the job. If you can give at least a few days to a week’s notice before your move, that would be ideal. 

#6: Take care of any last-minute appointments and errands.

You can do a lot over the Internet but not everything. If you need to drop off a library book, take the time to do that before your move so that you don’t get charged. 

Need to make arrangements at your college, university, or your kids’ schools? Need to book your annual teeth cleaning or meet with your doctor before you leave? Now’s the time to do it. Also, don’t forget to close your PO Box and set up mail forwarding so that your mail is sent to the right location after you move. 

Bellhop: A Moving Company with Extensive Experience in Out-of-State Moves

Following these steps above and using our free packing list will ensure a smooth and cost-effective move. And when you are ready to start budgeting your move, give us a call! We offer a full range of moving capabilities to suit any budget. you can order a truck and move with friends, or schedule full, white-glove service door-to-door using an experienced moving crew. We are experts at long-distance moves and come fully insured to handle any level of service. We’re here to give you peace of mind knowing your items are in good hands. And we’re here to make your move fun!

Are you moving out of state? Check out these specific guides for moving from different states:

• Moving From California to Texas
• Moving From Texas to Colorado
• Moving From California to Florida
• Moving From Arizona to California
• Moving From California to Arizona
• Moving From California to Nevada
• Moving From Colorado to Texas
• Moving From New York to Florida
• Moving From Oregon to Washington
• Moving From Florida to New York

Moving In State? We can help:

• New York City Movers
• Dallas Movers
• Boston Movers
• Philadelphia Movers
• Pittsburgh Movers
• Los Angeles Movers
• San Francisco Movers
• Washington DC Movers
• Charlotte Movers
• Las Vegas Movers
• Find Movers Near You

The post Everything you need to know about moving to a new state. appeared first on Bellhop.

As nationwide movers, we at Bellhop know a thing or two about Las Vegas and the great state of Nevada. This article explores what makes this state so unique. After reading, you’ll know it through and through. We also cover some things to remember when moving to Nevada, or any state for that matter. 

In this article, we touch on some crucial parts like:

• Economy
• Job opportunities
• Cost of living
• Income, Property, and Sales Taxes
• Outdoor life
• Overall vibe and culture
• Which cities are best to call home 

It so happens that these points are pros for living in the state, but we also cover many cons too. After all, there are two sides to every coin, and not all choices are up to luck. 

Looking for Long Distance Las Vegas Movers?

Is Nevada a Good Place to Live?

It is, and for a wide range of reasons. To get a good understanding of this magical state, let’s look at the pros and cons of living in Nevada, starting with the pros. They are pretty strong – particularly economically. You can save a good chunk of money in this state.   

What are the Pros of living in Nevada?

Tax Rates: Income Taxes and  Beyond

Nevada is known for being one of nine states in the U.S. with no state income tax. It makes huge money from tourism, entertainment, casinos, and dining. Add in residential property taxes, and the state has everything it needs for its infrastructure. At the same time, it has some of the lowest property taxes in the United States, sitting at 00.69%.

The lack of income tax is a huge benefit, but wait; there’s more! Nevadans also don’t pay sales tax on home sales, food, medicine, and other items. All of that savings adds up – especially with home sales. For taxed items, the sales tax rate sits at 4.6% plus local taxes, which can reach a total of 8.265% at the highest. Check your desired area of living to know more.

To make the most of these benefits, it’s a good idea to consult a tax professional.

A Growing Job Market

You may think you’re out of luck if you don’t want to work in the gaming or hospitality industries, but big cities like Las Vegas offer the same wide range of jobs that support other large cities, plus some unique industries. Tech is booming here, particularly in Reno. It also offers employment opportunities in aerospace and defense, construction, agriculture, energy, health care, and its oldest employment opportunity: mining.

Median Household Income

The median household income sits just above $76,000 as of 2019 – the latest figures on record, similar to the national average. This is especially good news when factoring in tax benefits.

Housing / Real Estate Market

The median listing home price runs around $395,000. Like other areas of any state, rates can change higher or lower based on the location. The average monthly cost for renting a 1-bedroom apartment runs around $800. Nevada is a terrific place to buy a home. Their long history of growth results in quality construction, and there is ample land to purchase.

Cost of Living in Nevada

For living costs, BestPlaces gives Nevada an average cost of living index score of 110.50, higher than the national average of 100. This factors in issues like living expenses and home prices. Keep in mind that the single biggest reason for this is the cost of housing (average rent and average home cost). However, it can still be a reasonable cost of living if you factor in salaries and massive tax savings – especially when selling that home. 

Cost of moving:

The costs of moving to Nevada can depend on a variety of factors. How far are you moving? Do you need more than one truck? Do you need to storage? One way to gauge the costs of moving to Nevada is to use a moving cost calculator to begin to plan within your budget.

Outdoor Activities: Desserts, Mountains, Lakes, and More!

You may think of Nevada as a dessert, and you aren’t entirely wrong. The Mojave Desert and is just 20 miles outside downtown Las Vegas. But Nevada also has gorgeous scenery and expansive nature, ranging from mountains to canyons, caves, lakes, rivers, and wide valleys.

Nevada happens to be the home to the Sierra Nevada mountains and Lake Tahoe National Park, home to the country’s largest alpine lake and second deepest lake. Lake Tahoe is one of the world’s top lake destinations.

The state also has a total of 24 state parks. Las Vegas is also a 4-hour drive from one of the biggest attractions in the world: Grand Canyon National Park. Lake Mead sits along the Nevada/Arizona border, and Lake Havasu is also a short drive away.

Nevada is the 7^th largest state and yet only has 3 million people. You’ll have plenty of space to roam and locations to explore. Enjoy state parks like the Red Rock Canyon and Great Basin National Park and explore the ancient rock carvings in the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area.

The Weather

Basque in 300+ days of sunshine! Nevada can warm in the southern portion of the state, and we do mean warm! Days over 100 degrees are common. If you plan to live in Las Vegas, hot weather will be a regular part of life. Still, the northern part of the state experiences more diverse weather patterns, including colder, snowy winters.

Outdoor Activities: Rock Climbing, Skiing, Hiking, and More!

The outdoor state and national parks draw outdoor enthusiasts even during hot weather. You can delve into activities like golfing, hiking, camping, mountain biking, fishing, snow skiing, snowboarding, water skiing, tubing, and ESPECIALLY rock climbing. We’re not kidding here. Red Rock Canyon alone has 3,000 rock climbing cliffs.

The Gambling Capital of the US

Nevada is most famous as a gambling destination. The gambling industry has been a huge contributor to its growth and is the financial backbone to why and how hotels and resorts cater so heavily to visitors. Nearly every entertainment venue has gambling positioned around it, enticing you to toss in a coin in a slot machine. You will see slot machines everywhere in the state, including in gas stations.

Entertainment Capital of the World

Nevada is famous for its nightlife, shows, concerts, high-quality shopping malls, and adult entertainment. But there are plenty of other things to do as well. Enjoy festivals, car shows, races, and sporting events. You’ll find plenty to do, especially since the desire to gamble can fade fast for residents.

Access To Fine Dining

Not to be outdone, the restaurants are truly spectacular here. You will find all the major chains, including many by high-end chefs. The buffets are particularly popular and very well done.

Nevada Culture

Nevada attracts all types of people, and this makes this state a bit hard to nail down. You’ll find everyone from sporks junkies to golfers, foodies, hotrodders, gamblers, clubbers, and devoutly highly religious people here.

The Hoover Dam is Spectacular

The impressive Hoover Dam is a must to see. The dam is truly massive at 726 feet high and 1,244 feet wide. It provides enough electric power to service 1.3 million people.

Nevada Day, Burning Man, and other Events

Nevada Day is a legal holiday celebrating when the state was formed. A parade is held in the state’s capital, Carson City. There are also numerous community events and carnivals, and one of the most unique festivals you will find anywhere: Burning Man. More than 60,000 people attend the week-long event focused on art, self-expression, and more than one or two mind-altering substances.   

Nevada Has Professional Sports Now

2020 marked the start of the Las Vegas Raiders, and back in In 2017, the desert city of Las Vegas even got a professional hockey team – the NHL Golden Knights.

The Hotels and Resorts are Truly First Class

Las Vegas boasts over 150,000 hotel rooms, and each hotel is designed to be more appealing than the next. And that’s just Las Vegas. Indulge in large pools, water ballet, restaurants, shows, and plenty of cocktails.

What are the cons of living in Nevada?

Our list wouldn’t be complete without the cons. Even though the pros are strong, the cons could dissuade you from making the big move.

The Desert is Dry and Hot

Like we said before, it gets hot, well over 100 degrees. People who live in areas like Las Vegas and Henderson pretty much hide indoors to stay cool during the hot months. Thankfully, Las Vegas knows how important staying cool is. There are large indoor shopping areas and plenty of pools.

Public Schools in Nevada Could be Better

The public school system is bad, and we mean bad. U. S. News ranks it 40^th in the country. You may need to consider private schools in some areas. Still, if you need a college or university education, there are places to go. Some popular locations are:

• University of Nevada
• College of Southern Nevada
• Nevada College
• College of Southern Nevada High School South
• Truckee Meadows Community College

The Gambling Capital of the U.S.

That’s right; this pro is also a con. If you don’t like living in an environment that caters to gambling and the nefarious activities around the scenes, this state may not be for you. What do we mean?

Prostitution

Nevada has areas with legal prostitution. The industry is still regulated, but it does exist.

Crime Rates

Nevada does have its share of violent crimes, but nationwide, it is about average. Statista shows Nevada as having 2,386 crimes per 100,000 people. Washington D.C. is the worst at 4,482, and New Hampshire is the lowest at 1,245.

Crime rates are especially susceptible to where you live in Nevada. For instance, Las Vegas is known for having crime, but the neighboring city of Henderson and many rural areas of Nevada have very little crime.

Traffic

Nevada has vast expanses of open land, but in the big cities, traffic isn’t fun. This is especially true of Las Vegas.

High Car Registration

New cars often require a high fee, and car insurance is also expensive here due to the state’s high number of accidents – especially from DUIs.

Tourists

Remember, Las Vegas services 42 million people visitors a year. With gambling being strong state-wide, tourists are in every major city.

Party Time is 24/7

Las Vegas and Reno love to party. Casinos happily stay open 24/7 to maximize any chance of collecting money.  

It’s Hard if You Suffer From Addictions

Alcohol, gambling, and prostitution are just some of the vices here that people with control issues need to navigate around. It can be like living in the lion’s den.

What are the best places to live in Nevada?

Choose from Large Cities and Small “Western Frontier” Towns. Here are some of the best.

Las Vegas

What type of list would this be if it didn’t include Las Vegas? Nevada’s biggest city is home to endless gambling and first-class entertainment, hotels, and nightlife. This city is made for those who feel lucky and for those who like to cater to them. Plus, you are close to attractions like Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and Lake Havasu.

Reno

Reno is one of Nevada’s most popular cities and is sometimes perceived as being similar to like Las Vegas thanks to its casinos, gambling, dining, shopping, and entertainment, but it brings some unique surprises. It is a historical city with museums and monuments and is also a strong tech startup location.

If you are a car fanatic, you can’t do better than Reno. This city has a love affair with cars. You can visit the National Automobile Museum and attend its famous Hot August Nights event showcasing endless classic vehicles. The city even has four drive-in theatres.

Reno is also only an hour away from Lake Tahoe and a four-hour drive to Yosemite National Park – two of the top nature destinations in the country.

Henderson

Henderson has experienced huge growth and is now one of the state’s populated cities. It is number two behind Las Vegas, making it the second-largest city in Nevada. It is also just 20 miles from downtown Las Vegas, sharing the same climate, sunshine, and conveniences while being one of the country’s safest places to live. That’s right; one of the safest in the entire United States.

You can enjoy golfing, multiple parks, and outdoor spaces. It is a great place to raise a family and is also a popular retirement community. Homes are priced on the higher side here, but with so much growth in Henderson and Las Vegas and with Nevada’s tax benefits, you’ll be sure to find work and build up savings.

Carson City

Is Carson City, Nevada, a good place to live?

Carson City is the capital of Nevada but is a small community – and often underrated. One of the best aspects of it is the location. It is just 30-minutes away from Reno and 45 minutes to Lake Tahoe, giving you the benefits of both.

This city is a blend of a small-town feel and a casino location. There is plenty of open nature in and around it and ample golf courses. You can buy larger acreage here and ride horses. The area does get snow at times, and you can ski here. Hang-gliding is also popular.  

The city is kept clean (it is the capital, after all) and a good spot for those looking for government employment. There are many traditional jobs here too, like banking and restaurants. Tahoe Regional Medical Center also employs about 2,000 people.

The city has Wild West history, and the historic mining ghost town of Virginia City is located here.  

Incline Village in Lake Tahoe

If money is no object, then incline village is for you. This area of Lak Tahoe is home to many of the lake’s most stunning homes while offering access to relaxing beaches. And Tahoe is well known for its first-class skiing and water sports. It is home to no less than 15 ski resorts. The lake marks the border between California and Nevada, and the Nevada side allows for gambling and Nevada’s tax benefits while enjoying the same lake. The job market in the city isn’t strong, but you are a one-hour drive to Reno and all its tech job opportunities.  

Sparks

Sparks may be small, but it still offers plenty of activities. This city sits just east of Reno, which means you enjoy convenient access to many of the city’s parks while also having its share of casinos, entertainment, and shopping. It is home to the upscale outlet shopping at The Outlets at Legends. And if you love ribs, you’ll love West Rib Cook-Off Festival. You can also cool off at Sparks Marina Park, where you can indulge in water sports like swimming, scuba diving, kayaking, and boating.

Boulder City in Clark County

Boulder City is small with a population of 16,000, but it sits directly next to Henderson, sharing its benefits. If you love rural life, you’ll love Boulder City. Life is slower here, but the community is tight. Boulder City ranks high in livability. It has a low cost of living and low crime, and the Clark County School District is considered good. If you love peace and quiet, Boulder City is for you.

Battle Mountain

Is Boulder City not small enough for you? Then it’s time to look at Battle Mountain. The town has only 3,700 people. You enjoy similar traits as Boulder City like peaceful living and a strong community, and it has above average schools and low crime rates. Work here is primarily in copper and gold mining and gambling.

As the name suggests, the town sits next to a mountain range. As a result, the weather can range from hot to cold. It gets about 17 inches of snow a year, and the area is known for its skiing and mountain biking.

It has ample, gorgeous scenery and is well known for its biking races that bring cyclists in worldwide. Both the fastest man and fastest woman cyclists set speed records here. It is also home to the longest open road race in the U.S. called the Pony Express.

Spring Valley

Spring Valley is a city and a municipal location consisting of over 80 towns along the west side of Las Vegas. It is a beautiful community and one of the most popular places to live. It is considered a great place to raise a family thanks to its slow crime rates, high security, ample recreational activities, and proximity to Las Vegas shopping, food, and entertainment. The area is known for its upscale living.

People here make money in the tourism industry, outdoor recreation, agriculture, real estate development, and manufacturing.  

Interested in Moving to Nevada?

How do you go about moving from state to state? Well, it is more involved than you may think. Moving isn’t just packing boxes and reserving a truck, and long-distance moves cost more than local ones. It helps to know ways of transitioning into your new home smoothly and cost-effectively.

As nationwide movers, we at Bellhop have extensive experience with state-to-state moves, and we know what you need to keep in mind. We even wrote an entire article on Moving to Another State.

We also know the top considerations to look for when moving into a new home. We created an easy-to-follow, chronological list of steps to make moving a piece of cake. It includes everything from obtaining a new driver’s license to setting up utilities and transitioning bank account, in addition to the best ways to pack. Check out our complete moving checklist.

These tips help save you money while making the entire process smooth. And when you’re ready to schedule your move, give us a call. We offer a wide range of moving options ranging from truck rentals to full, white-glove delivery and at competitive prices.

The post Is Moving to Nevada Right for You? A 2022 Guide. appeared first on Bellhop.

Relocating can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to narrowing down places to live. Don’t worry, this blog will help you decide if Pennsylvania is your next big adventure!

Besides being extraordinarily tricky to spell, Pennsylvania is also a tricky state to describe properly. What’s true for one part of the state can be decidedly different just an hour’s drive away. Our advice: embrace the contradictions, enjoy the characters you’ll meet, figure out something fun to do with all the money you’ll save (the cost of living is relatively low here) and buy a cozy snowsuit. 

We’re not going to claim we can tell you everything you’d ever need to know about living in Pennsylvania – but with the help of our local team members we are going to share the most important things that we know about moving and living here. By the way, we’re Bellhop – we make the whole experience of moving much easier than you ever dreamed possible. We can help you relocate to and from Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and pretty much everywhere else too.

Fun Facts about Pennsylvania

It’s technically not a state. Pennsylvania is actually one of the four “commonwealths” in the continental U.S. (The others are Kentucky, Massachusetts, and Virginia.) In the greater scheme of things, this means absolutely nothing regarding daily life, it dates back to political thinking that was popular in the 18th century. Despite calling itself a commonwealth, Pennsylvania’s nickname is “The Keystone State,” in reference to its central role in the founding of the nation. 

Pennsylvania prides itself on being the first to achieve many wonderful things. It was the first state to protest against slavery and it was the first to pass an abolition law in the United States. The first American flag, stock market, computer, automobile service station, daily newspaper, zoological garden, toll road, art museum, hospital, radio broadcast, little league baseball game and the country’s first commercial pretzel factory … it all happened – first – here.

Fun Facts about Pennsylvania

It’s technically not a state. Pennsylvania is actually one of the four “commonwealths” in the continental U.S. (The others are Kentucky, Massachusetts, and Virginia.) In the greater scheme of things, this means absolutely nothing regarding daily life, it dates back to political thinking that was popular in the 18th century. Despite calling itself a commonwealth, Pennsylvania’s nickname is “The Keystone State,” in reference to its central role in the founding of the nation. 

Pennsylvania prides itself on being the first to achieve many wonderful things. It was the first state to protest against slavery and it was the first to pass an abolition law in the United States. The first American flag, stock market, computer, automobile service station, daily newspaper, zoological garden, toll road, art museum, hospital, radio broadcast, little league baseball game and the country’s first commercial pretzel factory … it all happened – first – here.

What are the pros and cons of moving to Pennsylvania?

Like anywhere else, there are some really great things about living in Pennsylvania and there are some not-so-great things to contend with too. We’re going to get those pesky cons out of the way first.

Cons of Living in Pennsylvania

Winter can be brutal. Expect to be experiencing cold weather from December to February, frequent snowstorms, icy roads and gray skies. Pennsylvania also has severe thunderstorms, especially in the mountains and highlands, and tornados through the spring and summer. 

Driving can be exciting. Highway on-ramps seem random, some are super-short and dump you right into traffic fast, others allow you time to gently merge. Some even have a stop sign at the end of the ramp. And then there’s the infamous “Pittsburgh Left” which can occur when two drivers meet at an intersection that lacks a left turn lane or arrow. When confronted with this situation, the driver going straight lets the driver who wants to go left go ahead to avoid a traffic buildup. The agreement is made by pointing, waving or a fast flash of headlights.

The infrastructure can be a little creaky. A significant number of roads and bridges really need to be repaired, which adds to the driving challenges. 

The Pros of Living in Pennsylvania

Cost of living is relatively low here,  roughly 1% less than the national average and much more in the central and more rural parts of the state. You save on housing, which is 8% lower than the national average, but utilities are 7% higher. Overall, the state is ranked #15 for affordability, which means its pretty easy to live well here on a modest salary. 

Taxes are low and easy to calculate too. The state income tax rate is a flat 3.07 percent for everyone. And while Pennsylvania may not be the first place you think of when you consider where to retire, perhaps it should be. Retirement income (such as 401(k)s, Social Security, pensions, and IRAs) are exempt from state tax in Pennsylvania. 

It’s beautiful. The forests, mountains, waterfalls, rock formations, those rolling farmlands … the state even has its own Grand Canyon (also known as Pine Creek Gorge). And if you want the full-on four distinct seasons experience, you’ll definitely find it here in Pennsylvania. 

Pennsylvania Economy and Employment

Pennsylvania used to be an economic powerhouse, due primarily to Pittsburgh. Back in the 1950s, Pittsburgh was the 8th largest city in the United States and was responsible for half of the country’s steel production. While that golden era has ended, there’s still plenty of opportunity in Pittsburgh (and Philadelphia). That said, Pennsylvania as a whole lags behind others states economically. Manufacturing and agricultural have long been Pennsylvania’s main industries, but the state is focusing on building new industries such as robotics and AI, and a “green jobs workforce” that is expected to be part of every sector of the state’s economy.

Today, young professionals are migrating to the city of Pittsburgh in waves because of the bustling startup scene, strong industry and a reasonable cost of living in comparison to much larger east coast cities like Boston or New York City.

Why moving to Pennsylvania offers opportunity, financial growth and a high quality of life.

Pennsylvania is complicated when it comes to determining the level of opportunity, financial growth, and quality of life the state offers. While smaller cities and towns in Pennsylvania might not offer as much due to size, the states larger cities like Pittsburgh and Philly are bursting at the seams with opportunity.

Between being home to some of the best universities in the world, high-ranking health institutions, rich history and four beautiful seasons (save for a pretty cold winter)… Pennsylvania offers all the essentials for a high-quality of life.

If you remember, earlier we mentioned that Pennsylvania is known as the Keystone state for its central location. This has also gifted the state with miles and miles of stunning landscape that include mountain trails, vast lakes and stunning forests.

So, if you want to get outdoors, it won’t be a problem in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania’s Best Cities

Before we dive in, we want to clarify that “Best” is whatever fits your idea of a great life. If you’re looking to farm, or just escape city life, our top picks are going to seem absurd to you. We’re focusing on larger, urban or suburban areas for the most part. But there plenty of options, and you’re sure to find the right place for you in Pennsylvania.

Eastern Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is the largest city in the state, and offers all the urban amenities you could ever want, in a city that is human-sized. It’s a great mix of old and new, with the Philadelphia Museum of Art, South Street, and Constitution Hall, along with outstanding restaurants, theater, and shopping. Ten of the country’s largest law firms and twelve Fortune 500 companies, including Comcast and Crown Holdings, have their headquarters in the Philadelphia area. The federal government also has a large presence there, with the East Coast operations of the U.S. Mint and a division of the Federal Reserve Bank located nearby. The city is also known as one of the largest health education and research centers in the U.S. Understandably, the cost of living is higher here than in the rest of the state. 

For more information on moving to Philadelphia, check out our city guide.

Allentown is Pennsylvania’s third largest metro area, and is home to the Allentown Symphony Hall, the Da Vinci Science Center the America On Wheels Museum, and Lehigh Canal Park. You’ll find a mix of historic homes and buildings here, and many of the older industrial mills and manufacturing centers are being transformed into apartments and lofts. It’s a two hour drive to Philly or NYC. 

Reading, located near Bear Creek Mountain, is smaller and much quieter than its two eastern siblings, with a cost of living significantly lower than the national average. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to spend your surplus cash, Reading is known as the “Outlet Capital of the World.”

Central Pennsylvania

The cost of living in this region is below the national average, and life is conducted at a delightfully slower pace. Lancaster-Ephrata is home to the country’s largest Amish population. Gettysburg and Harrisburg offer historic attractions like Gettysburg National Park. It’s all about nature in central Pennsylvania … and festivals. Don’t miss the Selinsgrove Market Street Festival, Beaver Community Fair, Bloomsburg Fair, and the Milton Fringe Festival – just to name a few.

Western Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh, the second-largest city in the state, is here, right at the meeting place of the Allegheny, Ohio, and Monongahela Rivers. Steel City is known for its bustling, walkable downtown area. Businesses here include Facebook and Google. The city has an especially strong cultural scene, Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, The Andy Warhol Museum and other art galleries (along with a lively club/music scene) will keep you busy. The city has a diverse population, thanks to its many higher-learning institutes which include Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University. Despite all this, the cost of living is slightly below the national average.

Neighborhoods worth exploring include Squirrel Hill for families, Lawrenceville for professional couples, and up-and-coming East Liberty. Want an amazing view? Check out the homes on Mount Washington. Suburbs include Mount Lebanon, Fox Chapel and Sewickley.

For more information on moving to Pittsburgh, check out our city guide here. 

Our final sell on Pennsylvania?

We have one final sell on Pennsylvania. It’s our trump card of sorts that we’ve been holding onto until now because it’s just that sweet. Are you ready? Are you sitting down? We think you’re gonna like this.

9. Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate.

Whether they were chocolate kisses, Almond Joys or Mr. Goodbars… we imagine you’ve your fair share of Hershey’s chocolate over the years. We know we have. Well, it just so happens that Pennsylvania is home to the sweetest place in the United States… Hershey. When Milton S. Hershey started the beloved Hershey Chocolate Company it was right here in Pennsylvania and in our opinion… that alone may just make it worth moving here.

Making the Move to Pennsylvania

Between a low cost of living, the beauty of the state, being able to fully enjoy all four seasons and great cities like Pittsburgh and Philly offering loads of opportunity… We can’t think of any good reason for you not to move to Pennsylvania. Can you? When you’re ready to relocate, we’re here to help. Our Pittsburgh movers and Philadelphia movers focus on making your move as simple and easy as humanly possible. We’re happy to answer all of your questions, anytime. 

The post Is Moving to Pennsylvania Right for You? A 2023 Guide. appeared first on Bellhop.

When the state of Maryland gets brought up in conversation, a remark about crab cakes is sure to follow. Maryland? Don’t they have great crab cakes there?

Well, if you adore crab cakes, yes 100% move to Maryland. But, just now the state has a lot more to offer than loads and loads of crabby patties.

Which, by the way, an interesting side note here… Maryland sells more crab cakes than it can supply. We know, tragic. The state actually has to ship in crab meat from other parts of the world. In fact, 38% of the crab meat found in Maryland crab cakes isn’t derived from crabs in Maryland. But, don’t hold this against them. There’s a lot to love about Maryland, still. Plus, the crab cakes really are ultra delicious.

Moving to Maryland, a brief overview of the state.

We’ll be upfront here, Maryland is certainly quite a bit different when compared to other states that we service here at Bellhop. Not different in a bad way. But, still, very different. Perhaps Maryland’s biggest weakness is that it doesn’t have many large cities to choose from. Really, just one, Baltimore. (Oh, and by way of introduction, we’re Bellhop —Baltimore movers, Rockville movers, Columbia movers, Ellicott City movers, Gaithersburg movers, Glen Burnie movers, Silver Spring movers, and movers throughout the country).

1. Maryland is a state of many interesting firsts.

Perhaps one of the most interesting things about Maryland is that it’s home to many firsts. It is home to our country’s first umbrella factory, our first railroad station, the first telegraph, the first American built piano and the first dental school… thank goodness for that last one.

In addition to this, Maryland is also the place where the first six-pack was sold, the first passenger-carrying hot air balloon was launched and where the ouija board was invented (super creepy).

And, if you’ve ever thrown your hand over your heart as The National Anthem blares on a loudspeaker… well you have Francis Scott Key and Maryland to thank for that, too. Maryland was the birthplace of the Star Spangled Banner

2. Move to Maryland if you’re a lover of the outdoors.

Maryland is a truly stunning state when it comes to the great outdoors. Believe it or not, 41% of the state is covered in trees. So, where Maryland might be lacking in large cities, it makes up for in sheer beauty. Maryland’s geography feels like a showcase of sorts, a beautiful collection of the United States most breathtaking features. The Chesapeake Bay dominates most of the Eastern portion of the state and with it comes sandy beaches, tons of islands scattered about, marshes, coves, and freshwater creeks. Maryland also has two mountain ranges that run through it –– the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains

If you’re a true outdoorsman (or woman) consider checking out a small town in Maryland called Thurmont. While it sports a small population of just 6,000 people, it gives residents amazing access to Maryland’s untamed beauty.

Thurmont is located smack dab in the middle of two stunning state parks, the Cunningham Falls State Park and the Catoctin Mountain Park. The two offer access to the largest waterfall in Maryland and the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

And, lastly, this will probably be the coolest thing you read all day… so Maryland has an island called Assateague, where a large herd of wild ponies run wild, munching on grass and drinking fresh water and doing things that wild ponies do. This alone, in our opinion, is worth making a jump to Maryland.

What are the pros and cons of moving to Maryland?

Maryland isn’t perfect, and like every state, it has its fair share of pros and cons. While we’re more than happy to help you move wherever you’re going, we want you to be happy where you call home next. So, before moving to Maryland, be sure to consider what’s great about the state and…  what’s not so great.

3. The pros of living in Maryland… close proximity to other big cities and diverse culture.

We like to consider ourselves a glass half full type of company here at Bellhop. So, we’re going to kick this section off with the good things about Maryland, first. The state of Maryland, and more specifically Baltimore, is in a great location. Baltimore is only a 30-minute drive to Washington D.C., it’s a one hour drive to Philadelphia, and it’s a two-hour drive to New York City. So, first and foremost, Maryland’s location is a huge pro to living in the state.

Maryland is also home to a very diverse culture. Being that it hugs the Mason-Dixon line, it is kind of sort of part of the South. But, with that said, most Marylanders will tell you they are Northerners. This, along with a wide array of ethnicities, gives Maryland a fascinating and very accepting culture.

4. The cons of living in Maryland, to put it bluntly… it ain’t cheap.

Maryland is a very wealthy state. Some newspapers like the Washington Post and US News claim that Maryland might very well be the wealthiest state in the nation. According to CNBC, Maryland has the highest concentration of millionaires in the country with 1 in 12 households being worth $1 million or more. Yes. We had to read that a couple times too. Crazy. So, naturally, with all this money comes higher costs. It can be difficult to wrap your mind around how much housing costs in Maryland. If you want a modest one bedroom apartment, you better expect to pay $1,500+… and median rent for a house in Maryland is $1,6000+.

If we were to name another con of moving to Maryland, it would again be the options in regards to cities. We don’t want to beat a dead horse here, but it’s something to be aware of. If you’re a city slicker, you better be okay with living in Baltimore, or you will be better off choosing another state to call home.

Show us the money, Maryland.

Okay, so we just casually mentioned that 1 in 12 Maryland households are worth $1 million or more… no big deal. With that said, it leaves one to wonder… what are these Marylanders doing to make so much money? Let’s take a closer look at Maryland’s economy.

5. Maryland sports one stellar economy.

Maryland is a ridiculously rich state with the average household income sitting at around a mind-boggling $70,000. Howard County, located in Maryland, is the 11th wealthiest in the nation. So, again, how?

Much of Maryland’s wealth can be attributed to the government. With most of its major cities sitting just an hour away from Washington D.C. the state has countless handsomely paid contractors that work directly with the United States government. Not to mention, the Aerospace industry in Maryland is responsible for somewhere in the neighborhood of $814 billion. So, that doesn’t hurt one bit either.

If you’re moving to Maryland, here’s where you should live.

Okay, so the largest city in Maryland sits at around 611,000 people. The second largest city clocks in at 71,000 people. So, if you’re looking for a big city, then you have one option…

6. Baltimore, the only option (but a good option nonetheless).

In an article published in The Smithsonian, “How Baltimore Quietly Became the East Coast’s Next Cool City,” writer David Amsden revisits the place he was born and raised after being away for nearly two decades.

He’s surprised to find a city that’s unrecognizable in many ways, very recognizable in others. Over the decade that spanned 2000 to 2010, the number of degree-holding young professionals in Baltimore increased by 92%. Like other cities we’ve mentioned so many times before –– Chattanooga, Richmond and Austin –– Baltimore is experiencing a mini-renaissance of sorts. They’ve become and are becoming exactly as The Smithsonian describes it… East Coast’s Next Cool City.

We could tell you to move to Thurmont for it’s incredible proximity to Maryland’s loveliest natural landscapes. We could tell you to move to Takoma Park to be a part of a loving and very open hippie community, just a stone’s throw from Washington D.C. We could tell you to move to Frederick for its easy access to five different airports.

But, we think Baltimore is the move if you’re a young professional looking to be a part of something bigger than yourself.

Still making up your mind on moving to Maryland?

Moving is a tough decision. We get it. Trust us. With that said, there are some pretty great reasons to call Maryland home. It’s access to the great outdoors is unparalleled. It boasts a ridiculously strong economy. It is within close proximity to some of the biggest cities in the United States. And, it offers a culture you have to experience to fully comprehend.

However, all that said, if Maryland just simply isn’t for you… we service dozens and dozens of other cities across the United States. So, no matter where you choose to call home, just now that we’ll do everything we can to make the actual moving part the easiest part.

But if you decide to move in or to Maryland don’t hesitate to reach out. We coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Maryland, and we would love to help!

The post Is Moving to Maryland Right for You? (A 2023 Guide) appeared first on Bellhop.

Updated Mar. 2021

Even if you think you know what to anticipate, moving to a new state can be difficult. That’s why we’ve put together this guide with everything you’ll need to know if Oklahoma is your next home.

By the way, we’re Bellhops—Oklahoma City movers, movers throughout the metro area, and movers throughout the country. If you’re reading this right now, there is a good chance you’re considering moving to Oklahoma, which means you’re going to become a part of this wildly fascinating and exciting history.

A brief overview of Oklahoma.

If you’re thinking about making a jump to Oklahoma, there is some good news. While you’ve certainly missed the party that was The Oklahoma Land Rush (you’re over a century late)… there’s still a ton of excitement happening in the state and the many cities that make it up. We are going to tell you everything you need to know about moving to Oklahoma. But, first, let’s cover a brief overview of the state.

1. Black Gold. . . Oklahoma was a state built on oil

While The Oklahoma Land Rush might have sparked the early beginnings of Oklahoma… the state itself was built on a little somethin’ somethin’ called Black Gold. It all began in Tulsa. Where, in the early 1900s, oil was struck in “Red Fork”, a neighborhood that today exists on the southwest side of the city.

This, however, only scratched the surface of the vast wealth brewing below Oklahoma’s crust. An oil field called Glenn Pool was eventually discovered and it ended up being quite the doozy. To date, Glenn Pool has yielded 340 million barrels of oil and was the jumping off point for nearly 100 oil companies. It’s no wonder that for so long, Tulsa was widely considered the Oil Capital of the World.

Oil has been such a vital aspect of Oklahoman history that the State’s Capitol Building is actually built atop an oil rig. That’s pretty cool.

2. Oklahoma has the second largest Native American population in the United States.

If you take a look at Oklahoma’s flag you can pretty quickly see how rich Native American history is in the state. Besides California, Oklahoma has the largest Native American population in the country.

Today, over thirty-nine Native American tribes call Oklahoma home… but only five of these are considered indigenous. A few of these Native American tribes include the Shawnee, Apache, Kickapoo, Pawnee and the Kaw.

While it is certainly beautiful that Native Americans have such a large presence in the state of Oklahoma, it’s important to note that the state’s history isn’t necessarily as pretty. While we won’t get too far into the weeds today, before Oklahoma was Oklahoma, it was Native American territory.

The Pros and Cons of Moving to Oklahoma.

Oklahoma, like any state, isn’t all rainbows and butterflies. It has some good parts about it… and some bad and even ugly parts, too. Before anyone moves to a state, we think it is important they know exactly what they are getting into. That’s why, in every one of our state guides, we include a pros and cons section. We’re optimists, however, here at Bellhop. So, let’s kick things off with the pros of moving to Oklahoma.

3. The pros of moving to Oklahoma… a ridiculously low cost of living and no rush hour.

USA Today ranked Oklahoma as the fourth most affordable state in the US to live. The average home price in Oklahoma is about $123,000. When you consider that the average home price in the United States is $226,000 you realize just how affordable Oklahoma is. It literally costs half the price to buy a home in Oklahoma than it does in the United States as a whole. That’s awesome. In addition to this, the average rent in Oklahoma is much cheaper than the rest of the United States too. While the average rent in the United States has recently hit a record high of $1,400… in Oklahoma’s largest and most popular city, Oklahoma City, rent clocks in at just a little over $700. Again, nearly half.

In addition to the low cost of living in Oklahoma, the state also makes transportation super easy. Due to the fact that most of the state doesn’t consist of massive overflowing cities, “rush hour” isn’t really a thing in Oklahoma.

Oh, and if you like BBQ… Oklahoma is a no brainer.

Now, let’s chat briefly about the not so great things about Oklahoma.

4. The cons of moving to Oklahoma… from a landscape standpoint there are certainly prettier states.

We would never call a state ugly. And, Oklahoma is certainly not ugly. Each and every state has its own individual features that make it beautiful. Unfortunately, for Oklahoma, these features don’t necessarily include its landscape. Oklahoma is composed of tons and tons of rolling plains. While they’re very pretty… they can certainly become monotonous and are by no means a hiker’s dream.

If you are someone that loves the great outdoors and loves playing and exploring in beautiful landscapes, then we recommend staying away from Oklahoma and taking a closer look at states with prettier landscapes.

Show us the money, Oklahoma… a look at the economy and the opportunity in The Sooner State.

Let’s face it… a big part of deciding whether or not a state is right for you is the money. You have to figure out a way to pay for rent and food and brews and all that other lovely stuff, right? Fortunately, where it concerns money and opportunity… Oklahoma has got you covered.

5. There are some golden opportunities in Oklahoma.

There happens to be a lot of opportunity in Oklahoma. For one, there is stability. So, if you’re looking to move there and find a nice stable career… you’re in luck. There are a handful of Fortune 500 companies in Oklahoma, many of which you will recognize. Does Hobby Lobby, Love’s, American Cancer Society or Sonic ring a bell? We imagine so.

But, the extremely low cost of living comes with some other opportunities, too. Due to the fact that rent is so incredibly low, Oklahoma is a great place to launch a business, too.

While Oklahoma has traditionally been known as being built on oil. It’s getting innovative. Oklahoma City, for example, has a surprisingly robust startup scene with nearly endless incubators, co-working spaces, and startup events. Not to mention, Tulsa, Oklahoma’s second largest city isn’t too far behind OKC, either. And, some experts are predicting the city will experience a boom in the coming years.  

Mike Basch, the philanthropic and investment arms of the GKFF (George Kaiser Family Foundation) foresees that startups will choose Tulsa in the future for their secondary offices because they will be able to save 30%-50% on costs.

What are the best places to live in Oklahoma?

Okay, so you’ve made it this far which means you’re somewhat interested in moving to Oklahoma. With that said, if you’re on a bit of a time crunch, here’s what you need to know… Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and Norman are where it is at. If you’re considering moving to Oklahoma take a hard look at these places. We’ve highlighted our personal favorite of the three down below.

6. Oklahoma City is called the biggest small town in the world… here is why.

Oklahoma City is Oklahoma’s capital and the largest city and is one of the only two state capital cities whose name includes the name of the state. Like many of America’s up and coming cities, it is growing like crazy. This is for some pretty obvious reasons. For one, Oklahoma City has an exceptional job market, too. In fact, it was recently ranked as one of the fastest growing job markets in the nation and one of the top ten cities in America to raise a family. Long story short, people want to move there… and they are.

With that said, this growth hasn’t jaded Oklahoma City. Transplants who move to Oklahoma City quickly fall in love with the close-knit southern feel and the warm Midwestern friendliness –– the perfect welcoming combination for newcomers.

Additionally, while Oklahoma City is growing quickly, it’s still very affordable to live there. According to Kiplinger, Oklahoma City has one of the most affordable housing markets in the nation.

And, while Oklahoma City has a population of 643,000 people… it isn’t difficult to get around. We mentioned this in our pro’s section. The state as a whole won’t leave you waiting in the car for hours, navigating through traffic.

A few final thoughts on Oklahoma

So, who is the state of Oklahoma for? Oklahoma is a gem but it’s not for everyone. Like we mentioned earlier, if you’re wanting to be surrounded by stunning landscape, Oklahoma isn’t necessarily the state for you. With that said, if you’re wanting to make a jump to a city with a very low cost of living without missing out on the opportunity… we doubt you will find a better place to call home.

If or when you decide to make your move, don’t hesitate to give us a shout. We would love to help.

The post Is Moving to Oklahoma Right For You? A 2023 Guide. appeared first on Bellhop.

It’s challenging to relocate to a new state, but it’s easier if you are familiar with the location.

Don’t worry! We’ve done the research for you.

This blog is chock-full of Minnesota facts to give you a taste of what it’s like to live there.

Thinking about moving to Minnesota? If you’re like most people, you don’t know anything about it. Don’t you fret. We will give you the rundown on the state, the good, the bad, the ugly, the opportunity there and even the best places to live if you plan on making the jump (oh, and by way of introduction, we’re Bellhop—Minneapolis movers, St. Paul movers and movers throughout the country).

An invaluable (but brief) overview of the state.

At 5.6 million people, Minnesota is the 22nd most populous state in the nation and at 225,163 square kilometers, Minnesota is pretty dang big too. In fact, it is the 12th largest state in the United States. And, while it sports a pretty big population, 60% of its people live in what is called the “Twin Cities,” two gorgeous metropolises we will discuss in more detail here shortly. But, that’s just scratching the surface of this gargantuan state.

Looking for Long Distance Movers in Minneapolis?

The pros and cons of living in Minnesota.

Minnesota is stunning. We would rank it up there with other gorgeous states we’ve written about like Washington and Oregon. But, even the nations most beautiful states have some not so beautiful things about them, too. In this section, we’re laying it all on the table… the good, the bad and the absolute ugly. We want you to know 100% what you’re getting into by moving to Minnesota. So, with that said, here are some pros and cons.

2. The pros: Absolutely delicious food and plenty of outdoor activities to burn off all those calories.

One of the biggest pros of moving to Minnesota is the great outdoors. We mentioned it earlier, but with 5 national parks, 76 state parks and over 10,000 lakes you will never run out of things to do from an outdoor standpoint. Between hiking, biking, trail running, swimming, fishing and boating… you will have plenty to do in Minnesota. It’s a good thing you will be surrounded with all of these outdoor activities. You’re going to need all the exercise you can get.

Minnesota is a foodie’s paradise. Smithsonian Magazine wrote an article, “Why every food lover should visit the Twin Cities” discussing how two of the states biggest cities are creating a booming food scene that celebrates both the past and the present cultures that have so heavily influenced Minnesota. And, if you’re not much for the outdoors and not much of a foodie, rejoice in the fact that your state has the largest most extravagant mall in the world… Mall of America.

It’s a monstrosity, a wonder, a masterpiece. Building it required 13,300 tons of steel and its frame is so absurdly massive it can fit seven Yankee Stadiums or 258 Statues of Liberty in it. Thankfully, it is home to some of the best brands in the world versus spare statues and stadiums. In fact, it’s home to so many stores that if you were to spend just ten minutes in every single one, you’d be walking around the mall for something like 86 hours. Oh, and you will be safe and sound while going about your shopping spree… Mall of America is so heavily trafficked, it has its own counterterrorism unit.

3. The cons: A winter so cold you might want to cry of unbearable coldness

Now for the bad news. Are you sitting down? There is really no way to sugar coat this, Minnesota is horrendously cold in the winter. Those who live far enough North in the state can experience temperatures as low as -60 degrees. That’s cold. Now, to end on a positive note. The summers are incredibly nice in Minnesota and since the state is further North, you’re going to get a really nice break from the crazy heat you might experience in other states we’ve highlighted in the past like Florida.

Show us the money… a quick look at Minnesota’s economy, job opportunity and cost of living.

Let’s get one thing straight, with 60% of the state’s population living in The Twin Cities, if you’re looking to move to Minnesota you should be considering Minneapolis or St. Paul. No, this doesn’t mean other cities and towns don’t have anything to offer… but what it does mean is that these two giants present the biggest opportunity.

4. The Twin Cities are a hotbed for Fortune 500 companies.

St. Paul and Minneapolis make up the Twin Cities. The pair are a pretty fascinating phenomenon. They sit just under 9 miles apart… they’re so close they could almost be one city… yet they couldn’t be more different from one another. We will riff on this dynamic duo more here shortly. But, for the time being, what you need to know is that the Twin Cities is one of the most concentrated areas in the world for fortune 500 companies. Massive behemoths like Target, United Health Group, 3M, Best Buy, General Mills and Land O’ Lakes have chosen the Twin Cities to house their corporate headquarters. And this is only a small portion of the 17 massive corporations that reside in the area.

5. But, you’re going to pay a pretty penny to get access to this opportunity.

The Twin Cities come with a pretty fat price tag. An apartment in Minneapolis is going to run you somewhere around the $1,500 mark. And, while this is quite a bit cheaper than say New York City, it’s still nothing to shrug off. Fortunately, it’s slightly smaller brother (or sister), St. Paul, is quite a bit more reasonable at just $1,200 a month for an apartment.

Where are the best places to live in The Land of 10,000 Lakes?

Take a wild guess… The Twin Cities. While St. Paul and Minneapolis are often compared to one another due to their close proximity they couldn’t be more different. While either would be a perfectly fine city to call home, we want to highlight a few of their differences, and hopefully, this will help you decide on which of the two twins is the right fit for you.

6. If you’re looking for a miniature version of the Big Apple, head to Minneapolis.

Minneapolis is magnificent. It’s the birthplace of great talents like Prince and the mastermind behind Charlie Brown. Often referred to as the “Mini Apple,” one quick Google search of the Minneapolis skyline and you will immediately understand why it’s seen as New York City’s Little brother. They are very very similar. But, besides the skyline, like New York City, there is plenty to do in Minneapolis… even in the dead of winter. Minneapolis is home to some solid professional teams like the Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Timberwolves, Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Lynx.

7. At just a stone’s throw away from Minneapolis, St. Paul is also an excellent choice, too.

Minneapolis is known for having massive skyscrapers and for being the larger of the two twins at a population of 430,000 people compared to St. Paul’s 300,000. But, St. Paul has it’s own unique romantic charm… it’s actually been called one of the most romantic cities in the United States. It doesn’t have big skyscrapers but instead wears old Victorian style architecture beautifully. It comes with just as much opportunity as it’s sibling but is better for someone who isn’t interested in the crazy hustle bustle that comes along with Minneapolis.

Final thoughts on if Minnesota is right for you.

If you can brave the winters, it’s worth moving to Minnesota. And, if you choose to call Minneapolis home, we can even help relocate you there. That’s what we do here at Bellhop, after all.

Once you decide on a place to call home don’t hesitate to give us a call… we’d be happy to help you get there. We coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Minnesota and we would love to help!

The post Is Moving to Minnesota Right for You? A 2023 guide. appeared first on Bellhop.

Updated Mar. 2021

The decision to move to a new state can be challenging. You don’t have to do it alone! In this article, we’ve gathered information about Massachusetts to make your decision a little bit easier.

Moving to Massachusetts very well might be the best decision you ever make. It is truly a remarkable state and one certainly worth calling home. And, here’s why…

A brief overview of the state.

Massachusetts is a small state located on the East Coast. It sits nice and cozy between Vermont, New Hampshire, New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. As of 2018, the state had a population of nearly 7 million people with 80% of its residents living within the Greater Boston Area. While it is fairly small in size, it is one of the most densely populated areas in the United States, which offers both some pros and cons for folks like you considering making a jump there. We will touch on these pros and cons in the next section. But, first, let’s focus solely on the lovely aspects of Massachusetts. 

1. You will earn the summers… but wow are they beautiful.

If you can figure out a way to weather the cold winters in Massachusetts, you are in for one of the loveliest falls and summers in the nation. The state as a whole enjoys very mild summers (where you don’t have to worry about sweating your bum off every time you step outside). And, in addition to these mild summers, Massachusetts is known for having a stunning fall bursting with all sorts of beautiful vibrant Autumn colors. If you don’t believe us, do yourself a favor and quickly Google “Massachusetts Autumn”… try to not let your jaw drop to the floor. 

2. Massachusetts is rich with interesting history… much of which you were never taught in school.

Unfortunately, when people think of Massachusetts they think back to the days in the classroom, nose buried deep in clunky history textbooks, doing their darndest not to fall asleep to their teacher’s lecture on American history.

Fortunately, while Massachusetts is certainly rich with history, most of it is much more interesting than any of the stuff we learned in school. For example, have you ever heard of the notorious bank robber and highwayman, James Allen? 

Well, you should of because he was a complete and total bada**. Back in 1837, he was sentenced to death for his crimes. It was right around the time that there was a biography being published on his life in crime. 

Before he bit the dust, his last request was that a copy of his biography be bound in his own skin and given to a man named John Fenno Jr., the hero who had accused him of murder. James Allen didn’t want to do this out of spite but as a token of respect. Allen considered Fenno the only man brave enough to stand up to him. Today, the book still exists and it can be found in the Boston Athenaeum Library. 

Now that’s history. 

The pros and cons of moving to Massachusetts.  

Pretty seasons and history aside, Boston certainly has its faults. And, we’re about to tell you all about them, not because we like being hyper-critical but because we want you to be making an educated decision as you plan your jump to Massachusetts or wherever. Which, by the way, did you know we can help with that? Anyway, we will take a break from the good stuff for just a moment and talk about the bad. Then, revisit the good because we want to end on a pretty note. 

3. The cons of moving to Massachusetts… the winters, the potholes, and the traffic. 

Okay, so while fall and summer in Massachusetts are lovely, the wintertime can be brutal. Not Game of Thrones brutal. But, brutal. Last year’s winter in Massachusetts was exceptionally rough with nearly 60 inches of snowfall and three major winter storms. Yikes. You’re tough, you can weather it. But, just something to keep in mind.

And, because of the brutal winters, potholes tend to plague the roads of Massachusetts, too. Something, again, you can weather… but maybe drive a truck or an SUV versus a Miata? Just a suggestion. 

And, finally, since Boston and Massachusetts is one of the most densely populated places in the United States, be ready to battle some serious traffic. Fortunately, if you live in Boston, you probably won’t need a car to get around. 

4. The pros of moving to Massachusetts… exceptional education, a great sport’s culture and world-famous seafood. 

Fortunately, the pros of moving to Massachusetts far outweigh the cons. If you decide to make a jump to this East Coast gem, here are some wonderful things you can expect. Massachusetts is an intellectual hotbed, powered by some of the best universities and colleges in the nation. World-renowned institutions like Harvard University, Boston University, MIT, Tufts University, Boston College and Williams College. 

And, for our readers who are book haters, the people of Massachusetts approach their sports with the same level of intensity as they do their education. The Bay State is home to legendary sports teams like the Boston Celtics, the Boston Red Sox, the Boston Bruins, and the New England Patriots. In other words, no matter the season, you will always have a team to cheer on. 

And, finally, this goes without saying but… Massachusetts has some killer seafood. Whether you’re tearing into a buttery hot lobster roll or spooning down a bowl of creamy clam chowder, you will be in seafood heaven in Massachusetts.  

Is Massachusetts realistic? Let’s talk money, opportunity and cost of living. 

Massachusetts sure sounds lovely. But, is it doable? You know… from a financial standpoint. In this section, we talk about money, opportunity and what it costs to live in Massachusetts.  

5. The cost of living in Massachusetts compared to the average salary

We won’t sugar coat this. Living in Massachusetts, particularly Boston or Cambridge isn’t cheap. In fact, it’s rather expensive. 

If you live in Boston, you should expect to cough up over $2,000 for a one bedroom and a mind-boggling $200,000 will buy you a 371 square foot home. In other words, unless you’re just racking in the dough, we recommend holding off on buying a home in Boston and perhaps just renting for a little while. This will give you some time to decide if Boston is right for you. 

Fortunately, the state has fairly high salaries. The average salary in Boston is $71,000 and in Cambridge, it is an impressive $80,000. So, while you will certainly be paying an arm and a leg to live in the Bay State, at least you will be making a solid wage. 

6. What does the opportunity look like inMassachusetts from a career standpoint?

Boston is often called the “Hub of the Universe” and for good reason… it is home to top universities, diverse culture, and a thriving economy. Massive fortune 500 companies like General Electric, State Street Corp and American Tower are all headquartered in Boston… and according to TechCrunch, the city’s startup scene is on pace to blow past NYC’s… that’s saying something considering the big apple is one of the hottest startup beds in the nation. 

Venture investment in the Boston Metro area hit $5 billion last year. So, whether you’re looking to start a company or move up through the corporate ladder, you will have some pretty splendid options to choose from in Boston. 

What are the best places to live in Massachusetts?

The Bay State is home to some beautiful small towns like Manchester-by-the-sea, Edgartown, Newburyport, Provincetown, and Lexington. However, if you’re making a jump to Massachusetts, we imagine you’re looking to move to a city… we recommend two. 

7. If you’re moving to Massachusetts, you’ve got to do Boston or Cambridge. 

We will sum these two cities up for you simply. If you are looking to take on one of America’s most iconic and largest cities, Boston is your obvious choice. It’s diverse, it’s stunning, it’s thriving and it’s rich with history. 

With that said, if you want to be near Boston (but not in Boston), we highly recommend you take a hard look at Cambridge. At just a twenty minute drive from Boston, it’s a small city that offers great accessibility to its much larger sibling. Cambridge is a college town with both MIT and Harvard being located there. Unlike, Boston, it’s a bit more laid back, hip and perhaps warmer to newcomers. 

Final thoughts on moving to Massachusetts.

Here at Bellhop, we are constantly moving people to and from places. We love what we do because we get to see how each state and city has its own unique personality, culture, and pace. 

The city of Boston and the state of Massachusetts are a pair we’ve become quite fond of. They are as American as American gets and they seem to live up to their title… “Hub of the Universe”. While they aren’t for everyone, we feel confident saying there is no other place in the world quite like them. If this feels like the right place for you, let our local Boston movers help you get to this great city.

By The Bellhop Team. 

The post Is Moving to Massachusetts Right for You? (A 2023 Guide) appeared first on Bellhop.

Or, so they say.

Today, Chicago, in so many ways, is like a phoenix that has risen from the ashes. Today, it’s one of the greatest cities in the United States housing some of the toughest and most brilliant minds the Midwest and the nation as a whole have to offer.

And, while there is certainly more to Illinois than Chicago… that’s where we’ll be focusing most of our attention today because let’s face it… if you’re considering moving to the state you’ve at the very least taken a hard look at the giant that sits on Lake Michigan. Correct us if we’re wrong, though.

Before we dive into this wonderful city and its neighbors who are quite wonderful too, let’s explore a brief overview of the state (oh, and by way of introduction, we’re Bellhop—Chicago movers, Evanston movers, Arlington Heights movers, Aurora movers, Cicero movers, Joliet movers, Palatine movers, and movers throughout the larger area).

A brief overview of the state of Illinois.

Besides Chicago… Illinois has a few other claims to fame. For one, it was the very first state to abolish slavery and it was where Abraham Lincoln lived for a couple of decades of his life. Additionally, Illinois was and still is home to the world’s very first McDonald’s.

Illinois’s landscape leaves something to be desired (but that’s okay).

Unlike some other states where we coordinate moving services, Illinois leaves something to be desired when it comes to the great outdoors.

The state as a whole is extremely flat and as we mentioned previously 85% corn. Definitely not the most attractive of landscapes for outdoorsmen (or outdoorswomen) looking for a state with plenty to do outside. With that said, in southern Illinois, you can find Garden of The Gods… sort of a random hidden gem in the state offering some of the most beautiful hiking and sights in the country. But, if you’re planning on moving to Chicago, this would be quite the trek.

The pros and cons of moving to Illinois.

Like every other state out there, Illinois has some great aspects about it and some not so great ones. We don’t want you to run into any surprises when you make your jump. So, we’re going to tell you the good, the bad and the ugly of moving to this midwestern state. We will go ahead and kick things off with the pros because we try to keep a positive attitude here at Bellhop.

The pros of moving to Illinois… Chicago, Chicago and Chicago.

The pros of moving to Illinois really come down to having the opportunity to live in one of the most impressive cities in the United States, Chicago. Very few states have cities so large they almost feel like states in and of themselves and Illinois is one of these rare few.

The cons of moving to Illinois… lack of choices and brutal weather.

With that said, there are certainly a few cons that might make Illinois the wrong state for you. For one, there are very little to no choices when it comes to medium to larger sized cities (besides Chicago). If you’re looking for a big city in Illinois, you have just one choice. That’s it.

In addition, to this poor selection, the weather in Illinois is brutal… bone chillingly brutal. Temperatures in Chicago, for example, dropped to negative 23 degrees freezing this past winter… thank goodness that’s over.

With that said, Illinois is known for having beautiful mild summers. So, if you can weather the cold, you’re in for a treat come spring and summer.

The job opportunity, cost of living and overall growth in Illinois.

We’ve taken a look at a brief overview of the state and have talked about the pros and the cons of living in Illinois. Now, let’s take a look at what we’ve all been waiting for… the green. In this section, we’re going to explore the cost of living in Illinois, the job opportunity and the overall growth.

How much does it cost to live in Illinois?

The cost of living in Illinois as a whole is affordable. Rent in the state is $974, about $40 below the average rent in the United States. Chicago, Illinois’ largest city, is where things start getting pricey. The average apartment rent in Chicago clocks in at around $1,800 a month. That’s pretty pricey. But, hear us out. Many people are scared to move to Chicago because of the price, which is a very fair concern.

But, when you compare Chicago to other larger cities in the United States –– Los Angeles, New York City and San Francisco –– it is very reasonable. The average rent in Chicago clocks in at around $1,800 a month. The average rent in Los Angeles is $2,371… the average rent in Manhattan, New York City is $4,100… the average rent in San Francisco is $3,600.

So, in comparison to equally large cities, Chicago presents a very affordable opportunity for someone to live in one of America’s greatest cities without decimating their wallet, so moving to Illinois might not come with the financial hardships you think it will.

What’s the job opportunity like in Illinois?

Illinois, believe it or not, is 85% corn. No. We aren’t making that up. 85% of the state is covered in corn fields. While many people who think of Illinois, think of Chicago (something that would never be thrown in the same sentence as corn)… much of Illinois’ economy consists of agriculture.

And corn isn’t the only major player in the agriculture space. Morton, a small town in Illinois is responsible for producing 85% of the world’s canned pumpkin. That’s crazy.

Both manufacturing and mining are large industries in Illinois, too.

Now, Chicago is obviously a much different story. Over the past decade, the city has become a major player in the tech and startup space. Just peruse Angel.co and you’ll find countless new innovative companies looking for roles ranging from sales to developing.

So, while Illinois as a whole might not offer a ton of opportunity for young professionals looking to make a name for themselves, there is certainly opportunity in Chicago.

What are the best places to live in Illinois? Do we even have to say?

In this regard, Illinois leaves something to be desired. But, if you’re good with living in Chicago, you couldn’t ask for a better city.

For one, it’s by far the most ethnically diverse city in the midwest, which gives you a vibrant culture with some of the best food ever. Not to mention, it’s home to tons of professional sports teams… The Black Hawks, The White Sox, The Bulls, The Cubs, and The Bears. We know, we had to do a double take too. That’s a lot.

And, if you aren’t into sports and prefer music and the arts… Chicago has countless shows on any given night and tons of pop-up art shows and creative events throughout the city. You simply can’t beat it, no matter what your interests are.

A few final thoughts on moving to Illinois.

Illinois is a great state with a gem in Chicago. And, while we don’t service the smaller cities in Illinois, if Chicago is on your radar, we can help get you there. That’s what we do here at Bellhop, help wonderful people like yourself move into their home or apartment (or treehouse, whatever floats your boat). We wish you the very best of luck as you pinpoint your new home and don’t forget… we’re just a call away.

If you decide to move in or to Illinois, don’t hesitate to reach out. We coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Illinois and we would love to help!

The post Is Moving to Illinois Right for You? A 2023 Guide. appeared first on Bellhop.

Updated December. 2021

If you are considering a move to Oregon, you are in for a treat. This gorgeous state offers a wealth of benefits and endless surprises. In fact, its traits are so varied that just when you think you have this state nailed down, you find that you don’t, and that is part of its appeal. 

Here is everything you need to know about being an Oregonian, and when you are ready to make the big move, Bellhop is ready to help.

Oregon is Big on Nature

Oregon may be bigger than you think. It is the 10th largest state. At the same time, it has only 4.2 million people. So what does it make up for in people? Natural scenery, and it’s gorgeous.

Oregon is known for its trees, but as is typical here, there is more to this state. It is one of the most diverse geographies and typographies in the lower 48 states. You name it and the state most likely has it.

The Oregon Coast

You may have seen Oregon’s picturesque beaches and rugged coastlines in calendars. Admiring them while traveling Oregon coast towns is a true treat. 

Mountains and Volcanoes

The Cascade Mountains is also home to Crater Lake National Park. The lake is housed in a volcano and is the deepest lake in the world. The deep blue color of the lake seems otherworldly.

Mount Hood, also a volcano, is 11,249 feet tall – the highest point of the state. And Strawberry Mountain is also a standout feature of the Malheur National Forest in the eastern portion of the state.  

Glaciers

There are 463 glaciers in Oregon, so break out that ice pick. 

Oregon Has Deserts?  

Oregon is home to beautiful desert scenery, and it’s huge. The high desert region extends from Central Oregon to the southeast corner of the state, ranging from rolling hills and sharp rock faces to the extreme flat of the Alvord Desert in southeast Oregon.

The Columbia River: One of 55 Rivers

The state has more federally designated wild and scenic segments of river than any other state. The Columbia River offers some of the best salmon fishing in the country. In fact, fishing is one of the state’s biggest draws. Be sure to check out the Columbia River National Scenic Area.

Oregon also shares Hells Canyon with Idaho. The canyon is the deepest river gorge in the country. Some consider it better than the Grand Canyon.

Forests

Last and definitely not least are the forests. This state is a tree lover’s paradise. You will find massive redwoods, Douglas-fir, ponderosa pine, red alder, hemlock, and big-leaf maple. It is also the biggest lumber-producing state in the U.S.

Oregon Weather: It’s Not Quite What You Think

Is living in Oregon depressing?

When you think of Oregon, you may think of rain, but overall, Oregon has a mild climate and average rainfall near the nation’s average. It just happens to rain where most residents live: Portland and the Willamette Valley. Once you pass the Cascade Range, the remaining two-thirds of the state to the east is significantly dryer.

Winters in Oregon

Oregon, on the whole, has a mild winter. Harsh winters and cold days happen but are typically reserved for areas within and east of the Cascade Mountains. 

Summer Weather 

Though the weather is mild in Oregon, hot summers do happen, with a few days a year over 100 degrees – even more so the furthest east you go.

Oregon Health: Great for Active Lifestyles

Are you active? Then suit up. You’ll have plenty to do.

Sports Galore

With all the nature comes ample activities to enjoy them. Enjoy snow skiing, water skiing, hiking, camping, bike riding, ATVing, water rafting, fishing, and wave and windsurfing. Oregon is the windsurfing capital of the U.S.

Bike Friendly

Oregon is second only to Washington as the most bike-friendly state in the U.S. The cities have advanced bike infrastructure, and you’ll find numerous bike programs, activities, and clubs in the state.

One of the World’s Most Environmentally Friendly Locations in the World

Oregon is green in more ways than one. If you are an environmentalist or, at the very least, environmentally conscious, you’ll feel right at home in Oregon. They are serious about recycling, energy efficiency, and protecting nature. The state is also known to be vegan-friendly. Oregon also sits firmly on the left of the U.S. politically.

Portland: Oregon‘s Largest City Blends Jobs, Culture, and Safety

What is the best city in Oregon to live in?

In 2021, U.S. News and World Report ranked Portland as the safest place to live in the country and the 8th for best places to live.  It is also one of the environmentally greenest cities in the U.S. This is impressive since it is also the state’s largest city.

Known as Bridge city for its many bridges over the Willamette River, Portland also bridges a wide range of lifestyles. If you have seen the show Portlandia, you know what we mean. The city is home to business elites, hippies, sports fanatics, and outdoor enthusiasts. And Oregon likes its differences. “Keep Portland Weird” is the city’s official motto, and the city competes with Austin to see which is weirder.

Compared to other cities, Portland is still relatively inexpensive yet also isolated, allowing for ample room for interesting characters. Here you’ll find plenty of tattoos, activities ranging from nature hiking to hunting, hybrid cars, a VooDoo Doughnut Shop, World Naked Bike Ride, yam bombing, and the annual Keep Portland Weird Festival.

It’s Not All About Portland

Other popular cities include Eurgene, Salem, Hillsboro, Gresham, Bend.

Oregon Economy

You can make good money in Oregon, but it’s good to have one or two financial advisors. Here are a few important to learn a few details, starting with taxes.  

The Good News: No Sales Tax

Only five states in the county don’t have sales tax, and Oregon is one of them. The lack of sales tax can add up in savings – especially for high-ticket items.

The Not-So-Good News: Oregon Has One of the Highest State Income Taxes in the Country

Although there is no sales tax, you will have to pay property tax and income tax, and unfortunately, Oregon is home to one of the highest income taxes in the country at 9.9%. Budget accordingly.

Employment

There are some excellent employment opportunities here, and not just in one industry. Overall, the unemployment rate vs. the country as of 2021 was around 4.7% – solidly average. The average salary is $58,000, or $28 per hour – slightly above the national average of $56,000.

A Home for Techies

Oregon is a tech hub, and this is where the strongest opportunities lie today. Silicon Forest in the Portland metro area is known for a long list of tech subsidiaries, and Intel’s largest hub is located here with over 21,000 employees. 

Nike and More

Nike, the largest sports brand in the world, is based in Oregon. It employs 12,000 in the state. Other large employers include U.S. Bank, Wells Fargo, Daimler Trucks North America, and Columbia Sportwear, and Boeing, just to name a few.

Coffee is Big Business

If you work in the coffee world, Oregon is known for its amazing coffee, and it is serious about it. Portland ranks number one in the country for coffee lovers, and the state has coffee roasters and coffee shops are everywhere. The state offers highly diverse coffee bean offerings and more than a few coffee snobs. 

Oregon is Home to First Class Wine

Welcome to wine country. Oregon’s rich soil and mild climate have made it well known in the wine world. The Willamette Valley has over 500 wineries, including some of the top Pino noir, Pinot gris, and Pinot blanc wines in the world. If you work in the wine industry or are a wine lover, you’ll feel right at home here.  

Craft Beer

As with coffee, craft beer is huge. The state is home to over 200 breweries and pubs producing beer, and it’s home to four of the country’s largest producers. 

Agriculture

Oregon also has extensive farmland. Crops are quite diverse, thanks to their varied growing areas. Farming makes up 13% of the state’s GDP.

Lumber

With its massive volume of trees, it excels as the highest lumber producer in the U.S.

Cost of Living 

Is Oregon expensive to live in?

Oregon is growing in demand, which is reflected in some figures. Let’s take a look at the cost of housing and food.

Cost of Housing

Rent:

In rural areas, rent can average as low at $600 or $800 for a one-bedroom apartment. Portland averages around $1,700, 81% above the national average.

Housing Prices: 

Statewide, the median home price for a home is $447,000, with rates higher in larger cities.  In Portland, the average cost is $540,000. The demand remains high due to the city and the state’s popularity. Many buyers are currently paying over the asking price. Building costs range from $135 to $200 a square foot. 

Cost of moving:

The costs of moving to Oregon can depend on a variety of factors. How far are you moving? Do you need more than one truck? Do you need to storage? One way to gauge the costs of moving to Oregon is to use a moving cost calculator to begin to plan within your budget.

Food Pricing

Food Prices: Groceries are nearly 13% higher than the national average. 

Other Notable Traits and Quirks

Oregon’s Amazing Gardens and “Rose City”

The mild weather is particularly beneficial for gardens. In fact, Portland is also known as “Rose City” with multiple rose gardens, including a 5-acre rose garden inside the city. It is home to the June Rose Festival. 

Shakespeare Festival

Oregon’s nationally famous Oregon Shakespear Festival hosts over 780 performances each year and draws around 400,000 viewers. 

Home to the Biggest Organism in the World

The Blue Mountains is home to the largest organism in the world, the Armillaria ostoyae. It’s a fungus, and it’s huge – 1,665 football fields huge.

In Most Areas, You Can’t Pump Your Own Gas

That’s right. The state does this to maintain safety and liability by preventing fires and slipping.

Oregon Hates Fluoridated Water

You read that right. Portland is the largest city not to fluoridate its water.

Our List of Cons of Living in Oregon

Here are some drawbacks to the state: 

Schools are Rated at the Bottom of the National Average

Unfortunately, the public schools are weak,  ranking in the bottom 10% of the country.  Still, if higher education is what you need, you are sure to find a school. Oregon is home to over 40 colleges and universities, such as the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Lewis & Clark College,  Reed College, Portland State University, and the University of Portland.   

 Traffic Ain’t Great

Traffic is a challenge, particularly in Portland. If you are used to 10-minute commutes, Oregon may take some getting used to

A Natural Disaster Risk

Oregon ranks 12th on the list of natural disaster areas, mainly due to an increase in fires. It also suffers from landslides, debris flows, floods, erosion, earthquakes, and tsunamis. 

Summary: Is Moving to Oregon a Good Idea?

If you lean more to the left side of life and value creativity and nature, Oregon is an appealing option, but if you have children, just be sure to choose your school zones wisely.

Bellhop is Ready to Help

Ready to start packing? Bellhop is ready to help with all sizes and types of moves. We even offer a free, comprehensive packing list to make planning easy.

The post Is Moving To Oregon Right For You? (A 2023 Guide) appeared first on Bellhop.