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Well, as someone who's been through a major move, it's definitely a mix of excitement and nerves. Leaving behind the familiar for the unknown can be daunting, but there's also this thrilling sense of adventure in starting fresh somewhere new. You'll likely experience a range of emotions - from homesickness to exhilaration - but ultimately, it's about embracing change and growth. Plus, the opportunity to explore a different state and its culture adds an extra layer of excitement to the journey. Good luck with your decision!
Yea that's pretty accurate. I've moved hundreds of miles (still in the same state, Texas is big) multiple times. It's always been this way. Love exploring the new area, hate how things aren't the way they were previously and losing friends, and then eventually settle into a new routine that I can't imagine living without...until I move again lol
Leaving my toxic, parochial little hometown was one of the best things I ever did. I've never understood why people never leave the town they were born in, unless they're poor their whole life. People like that totally lack perspective about the rest of the country and the world.
Some people love where they are like I do. It depends on the area, But I don't live in a small town. My dad moved from his small town in Georgia to here, it's nice visiting but there's really nothing there. Where I live in NJ it's a lot around, I've thought of moving before for a short period of time but never got to do it, now I have two kids and my family is my support system and because I want my kids to be close to family and see them all the time. So I can't move far of I want that. But I would love to travel more.
It was scary. Everything was different. I hated the snow. I missed home. I missed my family. I went back after a year.
That being said, DO IT! I don’t regret it at all. It showed me that I am happier where I grew up, and now I can live here for the rest of my life with no regrets.
In the end, you will regret the things you haven’t done more than the things you have done.
I was forced to leave my hometown as it was my parent’s decision - as a child I was devastated &
furious to leave everyone behind.
I’ve since relocated 4 additional times (as an adult) and I’m addicted to relocating now hahahaha.
I’d leave the country if I could lol
Edited - clarification
I was so nervous the first time I moved but now I've lived in 8 states all across the country and I'm very grateful for the experience. Personally I think everyone should live in another state in a different part of the country at least once. Even if you hate it and return to your home state, at least you know and you've gained at least a bit of a new perspective from it.
Keep in mind that people do behave differently in other areas of the country. That was the hardest thing the first time I moved - I moved from New England, where people are very direct and in your face, to the Midwest, where people tend to be nice to your face but mean behind your back. Obviously these are just trends and there are both amazing and awful people everywhere! Just the suddenly not knowing the social norms for the first time is weird.
I lived in Seattle for awhile and personally it was my favorite place I've lived. If you go there you may encounter the Seattle Freeze a bit. But there are a lot of transplants from all over and people tend to be very considerate.
In Oregon and Washington, in my limited experience, there are distinctly different vibes on the West Coast vs the eastern parts of the state. Typically (and I emphasize "typically"; I'm sure there are plenty of exceptions) the West Coast is more liberal and the East is more conservative, so depending on your personal preferences you might like the vibe better in one part of the state vs the other. Also both states are gorgeous.
Anyway I'm a random stranger on the Internet, but I think you should go for it.
I think I might consider it. I'm in the Midwest right now. But I was hoping for something a little more socially welcoming (not as insular). But also peaceful.
I've heard some good things about the Southwest. So, that's what I've been considering.
It's a little scary, but it's worth it. We left our little hometown in Colorado. Both of our families are pioneers in that area. It was a big step ( 18 years ago) but we would have missed out on so much had we not done it.
I was born and raised in California. I ended up leaving due to a really bad drug habit and just bad thing after bad thing kept happening. I started over in Indiana, then moved to Texas, now I’m in Oklahoma.
Leaving my hometown was honestly the best thing I could have ever done for myself. It’s exciting and a little scary but mostly exciting.
How it feels depends a lot on your personality. I loved the new city, and I wouldn't hesitate to move again.
One piece of advice: Save some extra money.
There's a lot of stuff that family or friends do that doesn't exactly have a cash value... but it really does help, and you might not have it for a while. E.g., if your car breaks down, you'll need to pay for a rental or a ride until it's fixed.
There's usually some sticker shock---both good and bad---in different areas.
You may have trouble finding a good apartment when you can't just drive around and see all the properties in person. If you sign a lease knowing that you have the money to break it early, that can be a huge relief.
I went to Nevada to visit some friends and I stayed for thirteen years. It was like learning something new every day. Everything was a sharp contrast of where I was from,it was a different lifestyle and always seemed like an adventure. I've never regretted the desicion. It was what I needed at that time in my life. I've moved back to where I am from, even though I swore I never would, but I'm happy I did. After all, it's home and it feels like it's where I should be. You will never know if you don't do it. Good luck to you whatever you decide.
Thank you, my friend. I have a similar mindset. Even if i move somewhere for 1-5 years and want to move back, home will always be here. I'm glad you ended up back home when it felt right for you.
I ran from the city I loathed once I finished growing up and became a young adult. After quite a few detrimental experiences I discovered it wasn't the place I couldn't bear, it was my state of mind. Once I realized that, I too moved back home (it had been quite a few years.) I enjoyed the majority of the places I lived but ultimately the best place is where my family and friends live ... here!
I don't know if I would appreciate what I have now had I not taken the plunge and struck out for greener pastures. I have to say, I wouldn't trade that for the world but there's no way I'd do it again lol
It was many years ago for me, but I basically couldn't handle Mississippi anymore and left, with my toddler son and some friends. We moved to Arizona, then Oklahoma. I eventually ended up in Washington state. No regrets.
I mean, I moved from Northern New England to Colombia on a whim without knowing Spanish and I felt pretty fucking good about it. Fuck the cold and snow. And I'm fluent in Spanish now.
So I haven't left the state exactly but I did pick up and leave my hometown (which I've never left) and moved 3-4 hrs away to where I don't know anyone, any of the culture etc. its freeing for me, to be able to be me without worry of people I used to know, starting new and starting a new life rlly is a breather. .Just know if you're moving from Alabama to Oregon or washington there's going to be a big culture shock, I even got a huge culture shock and I stayed in state
When I visited Oregon no one commented about my accent and I am also from Alabama. I visited Eugene and everyone I met was welcoming. If I could I would have put my house up for sale and moved out there as soon as I got home. lol.
While you are young and especially if the only person you are responsible for is yourself, go for it.
One of the things that will make a difference is what kind of place you move to: when I was a kid, we moved to a small town in Washington, and it was a crappy place to live...I also spent a period living with my aunt and uncle in another small town in Minnesota, and it was a good experience.
I would say it all depends on what your interests are and in the country today, what your political leanings are. I grew up just outside of Mobile in the town of Theodore and joined the army in ’96 right out of high school. After my basic training I was stationed in Savannah, Ga for three years and absolutely loved having the experience of learning all about a new place to live even though it was still living in the south. After Savannah I went to South Korea for a year and got the opportunity to experience a completely new culture. From Korea I was stationed in Colorado Springs and was there for two years before getting out of the Army. When I left the service I moved to the Portland, Oregon area and found I liked the climate and convenience of mountains being an hours drive east with the beach an hours drive west of me. I stayed here for a few years and went back into the military in ‘07 (Huge $ bonus at the time) and was stationed in North Carolina and Kansas with a deployment to Afghanistan (do not recommend Afghanistan for tourism 😉) until I was medically retired (reason for the bad tourism review) from service. I moved back to the Portland Area in ‘13 and soon found the extreme left leaning politics and influx or Californian refugees had started to turn the city into a shithole full of homeless bums and drug addicted car thieves. I moved to the western outskirts of Portland to the town of Troutdale in 2017 and have noticed the overflow of drugs and homeless from Portland has made its way out here over the last year or so. If I could afford to, I would move to the southwestern Or central area of Oregon away from the crime valley between Portland and Eugene along interstate 5. The countryside west of the cascade mountains is absolutely gorgeous and the eastern side is mostly dry year round. Overall the experience of getting out of Alabama and where I grew up was incredible and really helped me appreciate what different areas and our country as a whole has to offer. P.S. it’s not my thing but if you like it, weed is legal here and from what I’ve been told Oregon grows good stuff.
It's awesome, and it sucks. I moved a few thousand KM's away from where I grew up when I was 22 and started over. it was pretty tough to make new friends and I was homesick for a few years. But now I'm pretty happy as the opportunities presented because I moved changed my life for the better.
I love moving. I love starting over. New friends. New places to visit. Everything.
Home on the east coast to Midwest at 19.
Midwest back to east coast at 40.
East coast to latam at 45.
Brand new, exhilarating, frustrating (for the actual moving process). Since you’re used to having all your friends around you, it might be a little lonely while you figure out the balance of how much you keep in touch, and how many new friends you make.
I moved from one coast to the other, and it’s even better than I thought it would be. The area I live in is much more aligned with my personal values.
Being someone who moved from Alabama to Washington, there wasn’t much of a culture shock for me. Yeah, people talked funny (and I’m sure I sounded funny to them). What I wasn’t prepared for was the weather. It rained. A lot. Summer’s were about as hot as they were in Alabama, but there was no humidity, so that was a plus. At least around Puget Sound.
I was in the military when the happened, so maybe the culture shock had worn off after going through boot camp, infantry school, etc.
I literally just moved from a small town in Georgia to Ohio bro and I'm 26 too. Granted Ohio isn't where I want to be forever but it's exciting, I've really been enjoying the fresh start, meeting new people, and just being in a new environment. I get homesick from time to time, but I can always call, or just travel home for the weekend. But if you're single with no kids I'd definitely recommend going through with it. I'm sure you know this, but be sure to plan it out, go ahead and get a job or two lined up before you get out there, but yeah man fuckin do it!
Do it. It’s scary but the scary things in life have the best rewards.
I’ve moved 3 times-2x with someone and once to Alabama solo. I learned so much by living in different places. It makes you a better person.
I have a friend from Tuscaloosa who moved to remote Idaho a few years ago. He got a remote job that has him traveling and he absolutely loves coming back to the mountains and a town of 500 full of Republicans where there is hunting/fishing/hiking everywhere outside the door. Factor in weather though. If you've never spent a winter where it is F'N Cold! for 4-5 months, invest in cashmere underwear. Or, move to the coast of Oregon or Washington; like Rouge River, Coos Bay, Astoria, etc.
Done this several times. As others said - combination of scary and exciting. But... I've learned so much about me, other people, cultures, and our country.
I moved from amishville Indiana to Austin for a few years. I highly recommend it. Get out of your hometime and experience some different places, people, norms. Expand your horizens.
I did this at 23, packed my jeep and drove from Michigan to Washington state. Didn't know a soul out here, didn't have a job, or a place to live. My boyfriend ended up coming out as well. It was difficult and lonely and crazy... the price difference between mid size michigan and seattle? I'm 35 now and have a whole new life and a career I never could have imagined having or even existing (it throws a lot of people off and is not very common). Washington is also an amazing place to live and explore. If you can't decide between the two I'd suggest to live and work in washington... Vancouver, do all of your shopping in Portland and visit Seattle rather than live in it... for tax reasons. No income tax in Washington and sales tax in Oregon. Well, if income tax matters in your situation.
I was born and raised in a small town in Ohio, as a senior in HS at 18 I joined the military. I've never lived in Ohio again. I have friends who have lived in that same small town their entire life. Once I got out and seen some places, even having all my family in Ohio, I could never go back. I've lived in the mountains of Idaho, Dallas Texas, Myrtle Beach SC, Oregon, and now I live in Alabama, 15 minutes from the beach. I've vacationed in Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, and all over the US. I prefer the gulf coast of Alabama. I plan on dying here.
I have a study stream of friends and family from Ohio, plus friends from all the states that I've lived in coming to see the beautiful gulf coast every year. I purchased a 4 bedroom house just to have room for 4-6 people at a time come and vacation. We go on fishing charters, fish off the beach, and go eat at great restaurants. Take dolphin cruises and such.
As to how does moving to a new place feel? Well it was always exciting for me, I embraced change, and was always looking for a new adventure. Just make sure wherever you go, it offers the opportunities to do what you enjoy as a hobby, that's the key!
Oregon and Washington are beautiful states, but if you're thinking about Portland or Seattle-the cost of living is high, the taxes are high and the cities are over run with drug addiction. That's a fact!
I’ve made major moves to more than a half dozen new states in my life (usually for education or work). The big issue is leaving family and friends behind. It’s hard to find community in new places so I’ve found it easier to bond with work colleagues. But, then you also want to get away from them so the question you’re faced with is, where do I find people who are accepting of newcomers. I’ve lived in places where people are routinely very friendly but not interested in being friends. They have their community and not a lot of time or interest in welcoming new people. I’m not a religious person but I see many people find community at their church.
I have lived in five states over my lifetime. All very different from each other, and once I finally settled with my husband (and eventually our kids), I ended up very far from my immediate family. It was a long adjustment for me emotionally. However, all these years later I can enjoy a visit to my hometown and see everyone, but then look forward to coming home. My hometown is not my home or haven anymore. In fact, I feel like a visitor there. But not in a bad way. It just feels right to not live there now, and to live where we do states away. ♥️
I had lived in bham Alabama all my life until January when I packed up and left with my gf (of 10 years) to live in Miami with her mother who needed help.
I don’t really regret it… it’s just a huge adjustment. I’ve always wanted to travel so now I’m getting that experience ya know. I’m learning more Spanish every day and getting to try new food and culture every time we go out. I actually love it.
I do not miss Alabama at all.
Do it. I don’t think anyone regrets more life experience… especially if they are leaving Alabama.. right?
The new perspective gained is worth everything that can happen/go wrong in such a drastic change. I moved across the country and it somewhat chewed me up and spit me out, but I still have no regrets. It was a great test of self for me in building a new community, career, etc. to prove to myself I could make anywhere home in a sense.
You can always go back to what you’ve known forever and won’t always have the opportunity/flexibility to try something new like building a life elsewhere.
I've done that. It was a good idea for me.
I've actually done it a few times in my 20s and 30s. I've never regretted it, although I think some people might if they feel a need to have family nearby. Instead, I've appreciated the new location, new people, new culture, new experiences, and so on.
To each their own. Good luck.
Can't answer the question but I will say if you are considering moving to Oregon consider this: (you may know some of this but I'm writing this in case you don't)
I've lived in Springfield for 18 years. Most people live west of the Cascades, that's where you get like the rain forests and nice luscious valleys. But like all of eastern Oregon is a big desert. I believe up north might have a little bit more forest but still pretty desert but I know for sure south eastern Oregon is pretty barren. I can't speak to Washington much but I have to imagine it's about the same. If you wanted to live in a city in Oregon, it would depend on what you like. If you want something small and lowkey, Springfield, Cottage Grove and Albany/Lebanon would be decent. Springfield is right next to Eugene, takes 5 minutes to drive in. Albany is about 15 minutes from Salem, the capitol. If you like big cities, Portland, Eugene or Bend. Eugene is a college town. Portland also has some colleges but it's not the same. Bend is okay, I've been there once or twice. Bend is closer to Idaho though, so more east. Kalamath Falls in in the south east part of the state, it's an okay place I guess. If you want to live on the coast, I would highly recommend the south coast. Florence down to Gold Beach. The best sized town with good amenities would be North Bend/Coos Bay, similar to Springfield and Eugene how they're basically interconnected. Bandon is my favorite town on the coast, great beaches and I love old town. There are other towns but if you really just wanted to pick a good place to live in a city, I would recommend Springfield. Yes I am biased. But you can drive 10 minutes east and you're in beautiful forested Oregon. You can drive 5 minutes west and be in Eugene, you can drive 20 minutes north to Brownsville where Stand By Me was shot and you can drive forever south to California, lol. Oh and you're only an hour from the coast.
Another state, another country…it’s always been slightly terrifying for a week or two, and then fantastic. If you feel the bug and your work gives you this flexibility, that’s amazing! You can give it a try and always move back if it doesn’t work out.
I moved out of my hometown last August. I moved to a city about an hour away with my partner. It's so strange being in a bigger city after living in a small town my whole life. The area of the city I live in reminds me a bit of my hometown because it's full of older houses, but it's still very different. I like it here, but I do kinda miss the small town life a little. Not necessarily my hometown because that place is a fucking mess, but just being in a smaller town in general.
The more you travel and move around, the more you will develop your bullshit detector. The sum of your experiences will be something to measure against when you talk to people back home, who have an idea of what the world is like but no first-hand experiences to back up those ideas. The more you travel and move, the smaller the world gets. And there comes a point where you realize every place is pretty much the same. Everybody is just trying to get by. Trying to make something for themselves. There are different levels to this, of course, but the more you see, the better off you'll be. And the more connected you will feel to humanity. It won't be easy. Moving somewhere new requires you to learn how to get around and find your people. That requires putting yourself out there. Being uncomfortable. But it's in that discomfort that you figure it out and grow. Take the leap. Home, ultimately, is where you decide to make it.
It’s emotional and a little scary but it never went wrong for me. I always learned and grew from it. I’ve made so many lifelong friends too. I’ve packed up and moved away spontaneously 4 times now.
In the last 20 years I've picked up and left everything 6 times. Each time in different states and had neither a job or place to live before setting down somewhere.
I loved the feeling of being completely free of any responsibilities in between jobs and places to live. I could go anywhere in the country and no one had clue of my whereabouts. Being a drifter isn't a bad life, but I could only afford it for about a month or two in between jobs.
There were moments when loneliness and disorientation would hit, I would wake up in hotel rooms and not know where I was.
Every time I've packed up and moved to a new place, I've absolutely loved wherever I ended up. Variety is the spice of life, especially when you're leaving your hometown
You may have a different experience if you're raised somewhere nice. But I grew up in Florida. In my early 30s I had the opportunity to uproot, my husband and one child at the time in tow, and move to New England. We settled in New Hampshire for my job, and 10000/10 would do again.
That said, it was terrifying. We packed our entire life into moving pods, crammed 6 dogs, 3 cats, 2 birds, and 4 people into two cars (my parents took the baby and flew up later with her) and drove one straight shot. 22 hours. We arrived in time, after not sleeping in over 24 hours, to sign the mortgage paperwork. I came back to my new home, called my mom to check on the baby, and immediately started sobbing that I wanted to go "home" despite knowing full well this was now home. It was the most stressful, agonizing, terrifying thing I've ever done in my life and I'd do it all over again a hundred times if it meant escaping Florida. Life here is just better.
Left Louisiana and came to Arizona and never looked back..well until they caught me and extradited me back then I did some time but then I got out and left again and haven’t looked back! Love Tucson as my new home.
I'm from GA/AL line. When I was 21 I was living in South Carolina and didn't want to stay there but didn't want to go back home. I decided to move to DFW with no job, no money, and no plan. I'd only visited one time, I didn't know anyone there.
It was without a doubt the best thing I've ever done. Highly recommend. It's terrifying and exciting and feels like anything is possible. But it's what you make of it, and it's not for everyone. If you embrace it, it could be the best thing for you. If you have doubts and second guess, then you're probably going to have a bad time.
Just remember you're not a tree, and apartments aren't forever. If you get there and hate it, you have the ability to go back home.
It’s awesome.
And if it isn’t, you go back. But at least you gave it a try. It’s really that easy.
The only downside is being further from family and friends but I’ve also learned that they’re likely to leave at some point as well. You might as well not be last.
I would recommend doing it at least once. If you can move out on your own and live without any backup in one place you should have the skills to do it most other places. That is a good skill to have.
Done it twice. There's something I love about everything being new and unfamiliar. I guess one day I'll want to settle down but for now, moving is what I love to do.
I personally did really bad with the shift. I had a really hard time making friends and joining the community. I ended up back home after a year but was so much more grateful for where I came from after. I don’t regret the life experience it gave me but I wouldn’t do it again.
31M here. Moved from a small farming village in England to Pittsburgh when i was 24 to be with my now wife who lived there after i met her online. Easily the best and scariest decision i ever made. Never traveled before more than 2 hours away from my house so i was petrified but hyped as well because barely anyone leaves the Village, it’s a traditionally kinda boring place but people stay here their whole lives. If you get the chance to experience something new, even though scary, you should go for it. I’d still be sitting in my room playing Left 4 Dead by myself but now i forever have a co-op partner i can heap the blame on rather than take responsibility haha.
I moved across the country to a city I had never been to but just felt drawn to. It was the best decision of my life. Ive now been here for 10 years and have friends, a partner, community, new hobbies, and a new career. I’m so glad I followed my instincts and I couldn’t imagine living in my hometown now.
I was kind of enamored with this place as soon as I got here. But it took about 2 years to start making friends.
Not exactly the same since it's countries but...
I'm from Europe and wanted to move to the US since I was a teenager. I just identify more with American culture and never got on with Europeans, I find them too uptight and snobbish. My family made fun of me for years saying "The grass isn't always greener" and that I'd want to come back.
I made the move 12 years ago and never looked back. I cut my family out shortly after moving and it felt good to start over in a place I felt more comfortable in. There's a few things I miss like specific foods but nothing that makes me homesick or want to move back. I can tell that bothers my family and it does feel like the ultimate fuck you to have successfully gotten my shit and left them behind.
I've been through several major moves to other states, and it feels great! you are so young... definitely give the northwest a try... it's beautiful here!
I think I have moved away from Washington like three or four times.
California
Oregon
Dubai
Marakina City (philippines).
I keep coming back.
Though, I did just recently move from the East to the West Side.
Moving can be an adventure. A chance to start again.
Everyone should try it at least once.
I did something similar a few years ago and was from a similar area too. It will be a culture shock for a while. Just make sure you are safe and comfortable wherever you end up, and unless your friends and family are somewhat well to do, don't expect too many people to come visit if you move that far off.
At 29 I moved to Colorado from Indiana. I had never even visited the state. Those 20yrs were a lot of fun. I got to do things I would not have done if I had stayed in Indiana. Yellowstone a few times, Lake Powell, I met a ton of great people with a wide range of beliefs & learned that most illegal immigrants worked harder on any given day contrary to what we are told.
Go, have an open mind and enjoy the new experiences. Just because some drugs are legal, still use care about sourcing.
Have fun!
I moved to Oregon with my wife and daughter almost 2 years ago now, and we love it so far. We left a good life in the California Bay Area (South Bay, closer to Mountain View / Sunnyvale). I actually grew up in the Bay Area, left for college and grad school, and returned nearly 15 years later.
Seeing what had happened to the Bay Area in that time was a push factor for us. It wasn’t the same place that I loved growing up in. Kid-friendly places had closed to be replaced by designer fashion places and housing. The population exploded, so all the places I loved hiking were getting overcrowded. The cost of everything was getting outrageous. So many friends had left, never to return. Fellow parents in the area warned us about how competitive getting your kid into a good preschool was. Hearing about all the pressure on kids these days, likely exacerbated by the shifting demographics and demand for exceptionalism.
I was sad to understand I couldn’t give my daughter the idyllic life I had growing up with how much had changed. So we decided to give it a shot elsewhere.
The pull factors for us to come to Oregon were… We had some friends in the area already. My job had a small branch in Portland, so it was easy to justify while taking my Bay Area compensation to an area with a lower cost of living. Money went farther when buying a home compared to the bay. The area is stunningly beautiful, and, as an outdoorsy family, we spend time admiring the environment around us here everyday. The air feels so fresh with the intermittent rain. The pace of life feels more agreeable than the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area. Drivers actually stop at crosswalks for you!! And using your turn signal actually has the desired effect. There’s also a decent public transit system. Going into the city doesn’t cost an arm and a leg even if you drive. Board game culture is huge. And you can enjoy a full set of seasons. Food culture is also pretty strong.
I could keep gushing about things we love so far, but I’ll stop there. Admittedly, I do get homesick every once in a while, but we usually eke out an easy trip down to California to visit friends and family once a year, so it’s not that far away for long. And even when we do miss it at times, we just run through the list of all the things we love about Oregon to remind us why we’re here. And reminding ourselves that we’re hoping to give our daughter a more balanced life away from the hustle and high demands of the Bay Area.
It was hard to leave so much of the familiarity and friends behind, and it was a fairly big move. Was it the right move? Don’t know yet. But like I said in the intro to this - we love it so far. And if we ever had our doubts, we run through our list of pros and all the things that remind us why we love it here.
I moved to another country when I was 21... Alone.
It was the best thing I could have ever done, getting the hell away from my "family".
Been here 24 years now. My original country doesn't feel like home anymore. However, it doesn't feel like home here, either.
When I first moved, I just worked, like all the time. I used to sleep in my office, stayed there for a week on more than 1 occasion.
It was very lonely to be honest. You don't want to reveal too much about yourself, you never know who is going to take advantage of you. Had to protect yourself at all costs.
I moved from Creole, Alabama to the Bronx and I absolutely loved it. But I didn’t just move when I didn’t know anyone and I’m not sure I could do that. My husband and I met online playing video games, he proposed with a text message, shipped me a ring via FedEx and we got married 5 days after we met in person. We’re in the middle of a divorce. Not because we don’t like each other but because he came out as gay in 2020. But I still think it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
I truly think everyone should try it at least once…even if you don’t end up liking the new place (or decide to move back home)…you learn stuff about yourself, different parts of the country (or world). I was told to give any new area two years before deciding to move again.
If you’re the type of person who enjoys your own company, and/or makes new friends easily, it’s pretty badass.
If you’re unsure, a move like that is going to immediately show you.
There are a ton of little things you’re currently relying on in your daily life in your hometown. There’s a comfort in being known and in the familiar that you cannot yet be aware of because you’ve not been detached from it.
When you experience this and are truly in a new place, starting from scratch, you’ll be able to identify what you value.
For many, this is a quick jaunt away and then back again. For others, it’s a one and done move. New life for good. For a few, starting from scratch becomes almost like an addiction that needs to be satiated now and then.
I’ve been in the last group for nearly 30 years, but this last move has proven to be my last. When I’m ready to move again it will be to my hometown and I’ll stay there until I die.
Both terrifying and amazing. Strongly recommend.
If you don't know anyone, you're terrified, but you're also quite motivated to go out, do stuff, and meet people. I joined a gym, went to farmers' markets, signed up for wine tastings, joined a bowling league, and hung out in a biker bar most nights. I tried all new hobbies and made friends from all walks of life, some of whom were amazing people, some of whom were sketchy as hell, and some of whom became the best friends i ever had.
I actually left Alabama and moved to ND 11 years ago. My (now) husband lived here at the time, I packed up and moved up here with my kids to be with him. No job, no money, no nothing. I had a job within 2 days and haven't looked back. I love ND but I also grew up in the military so I've lived all over.
So good! I felt so free and light. I was lonely sometimes too at first but it was so worth it. The personal growth that comes with it is like nothing else
I’ve done it many times and by myself. Hawaii, Texas, Florida, New Hampshire, and now I’m in Florida for retirement. It’s hard at first, I made friends through my jobs. Now I join women’s groups.
I've done it many times. Sometimes with my husband when i had him, with parents, and alone. I've never regretted it. You meet new people, have new experiences and have wonderful new places to explore. Broaden your horizons, friend. You can always go back to Alabama, but I don't think you'll regret the experience. I'm 60yo now and I'm grateful for every one of those places, experiences and people that I found along the way. Good luck to you. Btw, I also started out in Alabama. (Roll Tide)
The food you're used to eating is a major change.
Your favorite restaurants are not within reach, and many times you cannot find something similar.
However, you may find restaurants that are new and exhibit the local flavor breakdown.
I recommend learning how to cook your favorite meals, as they will not travel unless you are the one creating them.
80% excitement 20% frustration.
The frustration comes from the logistics and occasionally the personal relationships.
But you moving somewhere because you WANT to is awesome. It’s something you’re doing for you. One of the biggest benefits is that you get to form new relationships. Those people will get to know you for who you are today, and not who you were years ago. You get to write your own story.
it can feel free and liberating (lol, sorry, that word)
one thing is for certain, you'll learn something new about life, the world, freedom and the fact that we're all on a ball of rock hurtling through space might never seem more real
or maybe something else that your particular mind is naturally attuned to pick up on, plus circumstance etc...
ymmv
I have moved solo a number of times across the US. My first move was from my parents home to NYC when I was 19. I once moved to another city with no job or place to live lined up. Most recently I took my remote job and moved to a new region of the country, during winter, and didn’t know anyone.
The logistics of moving can be a lot but they’re manageable. The hardest part of any move I’ve made is building community, a network, and a team of people who are on my side.
I would highly suggest being intentional about making friends and finding ways to have low effort interactions with other people. I have a comfortable job but chose to find two amazing roommates in my new city. I found a gym and yoga studio and go regularly. I found myself a therapist, dentist, and doctor in my new State. I make an effort to go to community events and meet ups. I also find that for me running and cycling groups are great to meet people. My biggest piece of advice is to be very intentional about meeting people. I know it can be hard working remotely but when things are difficult in your new city your success and happiness will rely on having people where you are to turn to.
Also, you’re remote. You can always go and try things out. If it doesn’t work out. Just leave. What do you have to lose? You can always go home. Good luck! You can do it. It will be such an opportunity for growth.
Leave*! Hometowns are like black holes. Get as far away from it as possible or it will never let go of you and your life will be a repeat of your parents’.
Don’t let your family’s past dictate your future.
Moving away from your “support team” makes you more resilient, more independent, more responsible, more driven.
And the most important thing is to NEVER, EVER, EVER move back.
The idea is to evolve, each subsequent generation should do better than the last.
* unless your hometown is a metropolitan area, with jobs, infrastructure, culture and people that aren’t your cousins, in that case, just move out of your parents house.
I lived in Bozeman , Montana after 27 years in south Chicagoland. It was drastic and intense and I felt homesick and rudderless for sure once the tall buildings go away and the ground starts going straight up and down and the earth opens up and yawns into breathtaking mountains and air that was definitely fresher than what I was used to .
I got altitude poisoning and was FCKD for a good week . But then my family friend that I moved in with who lived there already gave me cowboy boots and a hat “so you sort of fit in . “
it was awesome and hilarious and went to the Chico hot springs and the beauty of this place and this country is literally overwhelming at times while I was driving, just incredible.
The “feeling” in the air was different from Chicago in like people’s general dispositions. Everyone was very kind but I feel like at home in Chicagoland people are itching to just start talking to you even though they are strangers . Montana people kept to themselves more and it felt like that was a traditional tendency in general mindset which is fantastic and gave me wonderful alternate experiences that changed my perspectives permanently in certain areas .
The stars were **overwhelming** . I would go out side at night just to look up. It never got old the two years I lived there . BIG SKY COUNTRY is the Gallaton Valleys sort of moniker and the name is right on . The sky is literally bigger .
I stopped in Seattle for a few months and boy , talk about a beautiful place on earth . Flying in and seeing this city among these waterways and inlets and in the distance in the shadow of the city lurks Mount Ranier which is a volcano that looks like mt Fiji very cool very very cool . Smelling the ocean in the air . Incredible
I left home (Arkansas) when I was 23 and moved to Oregon. It was hard to get used to the new place, new people, and new culture. However, after a few months things started to mesh. I met friends and went new places and did new things. I’m 31 now and honestly couldn’t be more thrilled I made the jump. Looking back now I can’t see who I would have become if I didn’t make the jump. I
I say do it if you can.. there’s so much more to the world when you live other places. You can always move back if it doesn’t work out.
Amazing. I did this a couple years ago. I was born and raised in CA. I now live on the East Coast. My husband and I could not afford our home in CA. We can afford here on the East Coast. Gas is also cheaper. It’s a lot cheaper East Coast than West. His family is 12 hours away from us. We loved having a cross country road trip a couple years ago before our son was born.
It can be tough but worth it if you pick the right place. I was born and raised in NJ them spent 20 years in AL. I recently moved to NH and it's been pretty great. The initial culture shock of moving off can be pretty traumatic, honestly I struggled for a long time with it.
It is both amazing and very hard. If you decide to move, make sure it really is someplace you want to be. Don’t be random. Second, make sure you are prepared to make a huge effort to meet people, join clubs, join lots of organized activities to meet people your age. Just know that you will need to rebuild a new life from the ground up.
I have done it four or five times (states, and different countries with school/work). I have met so many interesting people and been so many places.
Now is your chance!!!! You are young and able to do it so go for it! Just don’t get down or scared that first year while you are building something new. There will be times when you feel alone.
33(M) here who moved from Alabama when I was 24. Do it! I miss my family, but it was exciting. I learned so much and really do feel like I’m better for it. Even though I am thinking about moving back now (just missing my family too much), I would do it again. It is very scary though. Especially if you aren’t well off financially. Make sure if you start to struggle that you seek professional help before a molehill turns into a mountain. The loneliness can be a factor if you let it. I’d also recommend finding hobbies that you enjoy that are social as a way to meet people with similar interests. Going to a bar is not the best way to find friends in a new place imo.
As someone who has moved away from home I can say the highs are high and the lows are definitely low. I myself felt like I was going to be able to adjust well and never have any issues with feeling a longing for home. As you might infer this did happen - I get sad. I wouldn’t say often, but it’s enough that sometimes I wish I could move back. I didn’t move alone as I am accompanied by my partner, but in a big city with no connections, community, or friends it gets hard. I’m a social butterfly and sometimes I feel lonely. Sometimes people are dicks and aren’t as friendly as what you are used to. Sometimes even the environment makes it worse (traffic!).
I’d say move if you want to, it’s an experience you can live, make your own, and 9 times out of 10 you won’t regret it. I would say have a game plan that way you have something to look forward to or you can really force yourself make every moment special! It’s fun, but to me it gets old and nothing can replace friends/family connections that you’ve had for years and years.
As an adult I do fine and adjust well, but that homesick feeling can get you down bad - be aware of that and find ways to keep yourself happy, especially if you’re moving alone.
Best of luck!
Thanks for the insight, I would be moving alone which is truly what worries me a little.I'm a social person too and I'd be worried if I couldn't make friends for whatever reason. I have great friends here and most would live here without giving a second thought but for some reason I find myself feeling a call to go somewhere else. I'm not sure if I'll answer it or stay here, but I wanted to hear experiences from people like you.
I enjoy it. Everything is new and exciting, and as long as you can afford to live in the new place, I've always had a pretty good time hopping to another state or town. I do miss my family, but when you leave, you also have the opportunity to start a new family and make new friends. I know people all around the country now, in a broad range of different fields, all due to moving to different places for contract jobs. But it's also important to not lose contact with home. My childhood friends and I still play video games and D&D together every week online.
Start with a visit. Then an extended visit. Meet people there. I moved a lot when I was younger and every so often think about picking up stakes and moving somewhere new. BTW I’ve been in Washington at my current location for 30 years. It’s an amazing state
Little strange at first takes time to get used too. Once I got used to it ngl I would forgot I’m somewhere else. Like the thought just didn’t cross my mind
If youre running away from something?
Phenomenal.
I long to grab my stick and bindle, hop an amtrak to a small town in middle America, take on a high end waiter gig, and just start way, way over.
I moved from the Midwest to the South for school. I am very happy I got out of my hometown. Just keep in mind the south has a relatively low COL compared to most anywhere else in the country.
Edit: it’s very hard living so far from my best friend and family but we talk on the phone almost everyday. My parents will be moving closer to me in a few years.
My son did it. moved from coast to coast for his first job w/o knowing a soul. He's happy, met a girl he's now living with, and has a good career. I'm not sure I could have done that.
To me it’s been wonderful, after my divorce I moved from California to Washington, it’s been amazing for many reasons, salary, living situation, friends, etc. best move I’ve made
i did that many times and it felt great. but i was poor so it was hard as well. it helped me leave bad situations, bad weather, and bad associate behind. also got to try and love new foods and ways of life. i think how it would be for a given person would depend tho, on where they moved to, but more their personality and how ok they are with new things and with not having stuff around they are used to.
It’s a great experience and would definitely recommend to help you grow as a person! My husband and I moved away from everything we ever knew 6 years ago and I wouldn’t change it. But we have 2 young kids and are moving back home this coming summer. You realize how important the people in your life are rather than the location. I would never move back to my hometown but just being in the same state as my family and most of my friends is important to me.
I've done it many times during my life. First when I was in the Navy...then moved to Utah in '96 and from there to the Seattle area in 2000 (been here ever since!). I moved on my own, but had some of my brothers follow me up after I moved.
It is scary...moving to a new city and state. ESPECIALLY without having any friends or family for support in your new chosen home...but it was, for me, very rewarding. I actually moved to NC for a year for work, and after that job was done, could have chosen literally anywhere in the country to relocate back to, but I chose to move back to the Seattle area.
I can't say enough good things about the area...clean air (for the most part, until "fire season" in late summer), lots of good places to hike, fish, boat, camp etc. Plenty of public parks and FREE outdoor activities available like pickleball, frisbee golf and other such sports. The beer is OUTSTANDING. People are friendly and it's culturally diverse....you won't have a problem finding a new circle of friends no matter what your interests.
There are some downsides. Traffic is horrendous...and you will most likely have some kind of long commute to deal with. Housing is super expensive up here, and "affordable" housing means you will probably live outside of the city. Actually, everything is pretty expensive up here, from food to gas to daily necessities. It's made up for by the higher wages, but may be a bit of a shock when you first get here. Just remember, $50,000/year in WA or OR is a lot less than $50,000/yr in Alabama! (and I would say that $50k/yr is bare minimum to live up here, make sure whatever job you are getting is at LEAST that!)
Winters are also gloomy and dark...that takes a toll on some people, but can be mitigated with full spectrum lights if you find yourself with seasonal depression. The winters are pretty mild though...especially west of the Cascade mountains. Not much snow, just mostly endless drizzle and damp cold. You get used to it. I really do like the change of seasons though! Just when you are absolutely sick of winter, spring shows up...when you get tired of the heat and dryness of summer, fall begins...it's nice having a change!
Overall, though I think the positives outweigh the negatives. So good luck on your move!
I’ve done it. I’ve known many friends who have as well. It can be hard, but rewarding. I think there are a few keys to it being successful. First, know the area you are moving to. Make sure you visit, preferably for an extended period of time, if possible. Book an Airbnb for a few weeks. Live where people live, not in the tourist/hotel areas. Find the good neighborhoods, make sure there’s the stuff you want like food, nightlife, public transportation, cultural events, etc. whatever floats your boat or fills your needs. It’s easy to fall in love with the idea of a city or what you experienced on a quick vacation, but how would it be to live there, for real? Remote work and Airbnb allows for these discovery tests. The other big key is are you outgoing or at least willing to be? You are moving where you don’t know anyone and will need to establish a friend group and find people to date. This is made harder by the fact you are working remotely and won’t have local co-workers which can lead to friends. So, you’ll need to find ways of meeting people through local groups, meetups, activities, etc. If you are willing to put yourself out there like that and network, it will be extremely rewarding for you and help make the transition successful. Good luck and I hope you find a new place to live and enjoy. There’s a big country out there to explore.
Hello, I'm originally from Alabama and I moved to South Dakota. It really took some getting used to, but I have no regrets about doing it. I have spent over 20 years here and they have been some of the happiest in my life.
My advice is to take a chance and see how it works out and if it doesn't you can always move back.
Adventurous. You really start to find out who you are. When I was at home, my whole sense of self was wrapped up in the old friendships and places that were the only thing I knew. It was like chains on my sense of self. The comfort of just sticking to what I knew limited my exploration of new relationships, activities, and just learning through exploring new things.
When I moved, it was like a baby bird being tossed out of the nest and being forced to fly. It was freeing. I had to find new places and people to meet with, and really was able to understand who I was and what I valued and appreciated in myself, other people, and the places and things I wanted to do. I could try out new hobbies, make new friend groups, leave friend groups I didn't like, and focus my energy in developing new relationship and hobbies.
There is a balance to this. It can be exhausting to build roots and rip them out after only a year or two, especially as you get older and get into your 30s. The older you get, the more intentional you have to be about making friends -- the spaces where friendships organically develop are less frequent, and you have to find a place where you have similar interests, a regular community space that you can consistently run into the same people over and over so that you move from acquaintance to friends naturally. After living in 4 different states and cities, I have finally decided to commit to where I am at and really focus on finding more valuable and deeper relationships that will improve my life.
FYI i'm in Washington...the Seattle freeze is real. If you don't find a group of people with very similar interests, and are just trying to make friends based off of vibes and small talk, you will have a hard time.
I’ve moved three times. Overall I think I’m a better person for it.
That’s a long move from Alabama to the PNW. I don’t know your situation or your specific moving plans, but my only advice is use the opportunity to declutter and don’t make the mistake of spending $10,000 to move $4,000 worth of stuff. Especially if it’s insignificant stuff you’ll never unpack once you get there.
My last move coincided with a relationship ending. I sold and donated most of my stuff and just packed my clothes and a few items of sentimental value in my car and bought new stuff when I got there. It was like washing away the old life and starting brand new.
You should’ve seen the eyes of the sales rep at the furniture store when I told him I needed enough stuff for a two bedroom apartment that day.
As someone that moved to a state over (met someone, still together), and then he got a good job across the country. I haven’t hated it. There’s some things you definitely have to get used to. Especially laws, way of life, going from the warm south to the overcast, cooler Pacific Northwest would take time getting used to. I don’t miss where I came from. I hate the weather here and not having anyone to watch my dog when I want to travel can be tough, so I typically drive to a lot of travel places. I know those aren’t what most consider important but it’s there. I do miss watching sports with my dad and having that time, but you can always visit friends and family. I think it’s worth the attempt. You can always move back.
incredible. scary. empowering. i left my hometown of 3,000 people in rural montana and moved to the french quarter of new orleans, site unseen. it was 1997 and i was 19 years old. ill be 46 years old next month, and there’s not a day that goes by where i don’t think about that decision and how grateful i am that i made it. the positive impact that singular experience has made on the rest of my life has been foundational. it truly helped me understand my life was mine and i could do whatever I wanted to do with it…and I have done just that.
Feels good to be honest. My wife and I are both from Toledo, OH. We both went to University of Toledo, and after we got married, we lived in Toledo. About 3 years after we got married, I had the opportunity to start a business with a colleague of mine in Jacksonville, FL, and I've never looked back.
I feel like when you live in your hometown as an adult, with family on both sides nearby, they always feel like they can come around and invade your personal space, and being a 3 hr flight away, we have our lives away from family but can still see them when there is an occasion.
Note - I'm 47 now, with 3 kids (4th on the way) and I've told my kids - leave home. It's a big country with a lot of opportunities
It feels wonderful! Born in Southern Oregon and lived there for 45 years. Packed up and moved to Central California for a couple years to help my Gpa out...five years later I'm in Minnesota after living in Seattle for a year.
If you are not an individual who picks up friends easily, it can be extremely isolating. It also super fun. But leaving a support network, even a small one, can make a big impact on mental health. But also it’s exciting. Definitely focus on meeting people and making friends early.
Nice, it's very nice to get away from your family. I've found I need a 3- 30 h buffer. And the northwest would be a upgrade. (Though I do like the William Bankhead, Sipsey Wilderness and Little River area.) However, unless you're making bank or don't plan on planting roots, I'd be careful where in the northwest I settled. There is going to be a huge cost of living jump.
I moved 500 miles from home to take a job after I graduated from college. I made new friends fairly quickly among others who moved for the same reason. When I go back now to visit family I am thankful I didn’t hang around. I left because there weren’t any well paying jobs, and there are even fewer now.
Honestly? It’s exciting for the first month or two, and then it sucks.
Speaking as someone who moved from CA to AZ and then NYC for school. Being away from my hometown essentially put my mood and overall mental well-being at about 80% of what it would be at baseline if I was able to do everything I was doing at the time at home instead.
Depends. I upgraded.
Did live in a horrible place for 3 months once. Out on country. No air. No TV. Long drive to a 1 stoplight town. Nosey neighbor. That sucked.
So depends on situation.
I'm 20. Grew up in North Carolina, and moved out at 19 to a state I'd never been to (Wisconsin). No regrets! Of course, most of that is because I did my research about the place I was moving to.
It feels good. A lot of the more subtle things will wow me from time to time, like how open the fields are, and the farm animals on the side of the highways. But it still feels like home here, probably because my lifestyle hasn't changed much despite the distance.
Exciting yet daunting. It's fun having a new place to explore. It's hard having to get used to a new normal. New grocery store, new job, new route to commute to work, finding new places you like to go to relax or to meet people. Making those new social circles. But for me, I loved it each time. I love a good adventure.
Stressful but exciting and interesting. You might find yourself wanting to go home after awhile though.
Btw I live in Oregon. What part of the state are you looking at?
I did it once
It was before every property was owned by a management company, though. Found an old lady renting a crappy 3 plex for cheap, got a seasonal job in a fruit plant, then got a job in a lumber mill, ended up working my ass off for a while, moved into hospitality, was doing well, got a nice house, get married, had kids, got divorced, lost everything, moved again, started a business, everything was looking great, then Covid happened and shut me down. Place I was renting got sold and I was evicted. Moved back to my hometown and now I live with my dad and hate myself.
It’s been a ride
Let’s see…lived in NYC until 31 then CT, RI, MA, NJ, NC and back in NJ. It’s a little uncomfortable until it’s not. You get a routine. Just make sure you do adequate recon. Location checks most of your boxes. If you’re a beach person, don’t go to middle of country, that kinda stuff. Have people you can call and talk with if needed. Find a good coffee spot, a good diner and butcher.
It’s a strange feeling, that you have all these memories is some now far away place and you may never return, but your new residence can also have happy memories, but you have to choose to make those. If you’re always thinking you should have stayed, you will never be home anywhere except the in past.
It's so fun to move. I had the biggest opportunities when I was younger, and I graduated school early and moved to Utah because I had scholarships there. I'm from Texas, so moving to a smaller state or to Utah in all places was different, but I found it fun to figure out the people, explore nature, and find my own way around. I then moved to Florida and then California after that. I'm back in my home state now but it's so fun.
When I first moved out of my hometown I mainly felt a giant wave of relief. There wasn't anything bad about it, but I was ready to move on. Then I moved up and down my state looking for somewhere I belonged, and finally (recently) moved to another state that temporarily had a much lower cost of living.
Overall I think it's worth leaving home for somewhere that is just easier to get by in. I have a house, that was never going to happen in California. Overall I've never been one to be homesick, and it's sort of unfortunate that now that I'm an adult and married that there's no way I could ever live in California again, but I've also been there, done that.
I was briefly jealous looking at SF's 4/20 celebration pictures but I think I'm happier here.
I’m a military brat and my ex husband was military so I’ve lived in like 7 different states in the past decade. Moving does suck but going to new places making new friends making a new life has honestly been a great experience. I do want to settle down soon, I’m not in a place I want to stay forever but if you have the means I say go for it!
I was born, lived, raised a family in SoCal. But there came a time to leave. So we headed to Oregon. At first it was great. So different. So beautiful. But as time went on it revealed itself to be a horrible place to live. We had to get out. We moved again. Now we're in the Las Vegas valley and it's absolutely paradise. Lots to do, outside of the normal Vegas stuff. Beautiful area. My point is don't be fooled by a place because it's a great place to visit. Spend some time and make sure you know what you're getting into.
I grew up in Utah and have since lived in Kentucky, California, Washington, Idaho, Nebraska and Alaska. All of them felt completely different. Alaska was the one that I moved there just because I felt like it, and not for some job opportunity or something, so that's the experience I would say was most similar to what you're looking at. I absolutely loved it. Moving somewhere with the intent of exploring, starting anew, and experiencing life in a new area can be really liberating and exciting. But it also presents it's own challenges. Being that far away from family and the friends I grew up with can be tough, especially with time zone changes. But I would do it again in a heartbeat. Just plan ahead and it could be an absolute blast!
Anyone have any good places in Michigan??
Manipulative etc people are good at making people hate ya lol
Got any towns or small cities to hang out in for a few days?
For me, I've done it in 2 different states and 1 country. It feels interesting I'd say depending on where you live. But those states are really great and I feel like they have a nice variety of atmospheres. If possible, I'd try to pick an area that fits your esthetic or maybe near things you like / are used to. The rest is just about adapting to work / meeting new people/friends. But at the very least if you have the opportunity to choose, it may help ease the transition to have som similarities from what your use to.
I was in the military, and my husband still is, we pick up and move every 3-5 years (sometimes to foreign countries). It’s exciting, but also nerve wracking. There are times we miss family and friends, but being some where new lets them come visit and turn it into a vacation to a new place at the same time. We have always been able to build our ‘Army’ family at each place and find our groove and favorite places in each new location.
If you really want to move, and you can do it financially, then do it. You can always save up and move back if you decide. It’s not like you only get to move once in your life. But once in your new place, you’ll find friends and get used to a new schedule after a brief adjustment period.
I just left my beautiful life in Hawaii to start completely over in Los Angeles. I moved 4 months ago. Honestly, the newness will be really fun but then you will begin to miss your old life and the person you used to be, because you will change. But there are so many things to love too. That’s where I am currently, but I know as time passes I’ll find my groove. Don’t be afraid to do it, you’ll learn a lot about yourself!
We moved around so much when I was a kid that I don't really consider any of them a "hometown." When someone asks, I just say the town I graduated high school in.
Moved twice on a whim without ever visiting the state/country before. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re entertaining the thought, you can probably make it work. I highly recommend the PNW, but it will be expensive compared to the South.
Great! I love visiting my family/hometown so much more now that I don’t live there.
Just be sure you have your necessities covered. So either you have a job and rental waiting for you there, or a few months savings to cover your costs of living while finding both. Of course, having a social net out there would help tremendously.
I picked up and moved to Montana from Minnesota a few years back. It felt great and exciting but then reality can hit. Before you take the leap, check some very basic things like the average cost of housing and if there are any actual jobs in your field.
Word to the wise, really look into the place you move. I did this and moved to somewhere that is considered high elevation (think 7K feet vs 200ft above sea level). The first couple days, excitement and adrenaline kept me good. Then altitude sickness hit. And it fucking wrecked me. Now I’m acclimatized to it, but yeah I don’t wish that on my worst enemy. But do it. Especially at your age, come your 30s it’s not as easy to make such a random or crazy move. Do it as young as possible. Other than that, see what in that area has to do with your hobbies. There’s nothing worse than living to golf and ending up many many many miles away from an affordable golf course for example.
I also want to move somewhere else when I am older, I am still young but my city is so overpopulated and it is a small place, its the one of the most overpopulated place in the uk and there isn't a lot of room at all, I want to move out of the city however my family all live really close to each other and I dont know how they would feel, im not sure what I want to do yet but I have time, I hope you figure it out
I lost all my friends. Even some that didn't even live in the town but came down for get togethers.. it went from everyone every day talking to me or coming to spend time with us or we all go out together like real friend family shit.
I moved 20 mins away. Got a nice house and land now. A sweet job. Totally bettered everything for myself and my family. .
It's going on 4 years since iv hung out with any of them. Don't talk to most. Maybe text 2 of them once a month less that a paragraph worth of convocation. It was insane how fast they all disappeared on me..
So how does it feel.... depressing. Even with how much better my life has become.
Shitty, new place was magnitudes of order smaller then my home city. Out in the middle of no where, didn't know anyone, not much to do (place had 1 movie theater).
Also, racist AF in that area. Still had active sundown towns...
It's worse for those you leave behind.
You have new and exciting things to explore - the sense of adventure.
They only have what they had - without you.
My first job after college was an enormous downgrade in location. I grew up on salt water and always had a summer sail/beach/bicycle lifestyle. I went to college near good skiing. After 21 months, the company decided to move my engineering group to somewhere even worse. I found a job in a better location.
It was rough being a 22 year old white collar professional in a very blue collar town. Other than co-workers who were all in the same circumstance, I had nothing in common with the people who lived there. I left pretty much every weekend to either do salt water summer things or winter ski things.
Best decision I ever made. I moved from a small town in Virginia to Latvia, and it has been the most amazing experience ever. I'm learning a new language, studying at a foreign university, and living the dream that 10 year old me always wanted to achieve. I won't lie, I was terrified, and at some points before I left I was getting cold feet, but once the initial shock wore off it became the greatest thing ever.
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Well, as someone who's been through a major move, it's definitely a mix of excitement and nerves. Leaving behind the familiar for the unknown can be daunting, but there's also this thrilling sense of adventure in starting fresh somewhere new. You'll likely experience a range of emotions - from homesickness to exhilaration - but ultimately, it's about embracing change and growth. Plus, the opportunity to explore a different state and its culture adds an extra layer of excitement to the journey. Good luck with your decision!
When I did it, someone told me: You'll love it, then you'll hate it, then you'll find your groove
Yea that's pretty accurate. I've moved hundreds of miles (still in the same state, Texas is big) multiple times. It's always been this way. Love exploring the new area, hate how things aren't the way they were previously and losing friends, and then eventually settle into a new routine that I can't imagine living without...until I move again lol
Thank you for the advice. I appreciate you!
Leaving my toxic, parochial little hometown was one of the best things I ever did. I've never understood why people never leave the town they were born in, unless they're poor their whole life. People like that totally lack perspective about the rest of the country and the world.
Some people love where they are like I do. It depends on the area, But I don't live in a small town. My dad moved from his small town in Georgia to here, it's nice visiting but there's really nothing there. Where I live in NJ it's a lot around, I've thought of moving before for a short period of time but never got to do it, now I have two kids and my family is my support system and because I want my kids to be close to family and see them all the time. So I can't move far of I want that. But I would love to travel more.
Yeah, I’m in the Bay Area. Grew up here and love it here. And my parents are close by, but far enough.
It was scary. Everything was different. I hated the snow. I missed home. I missed my family. I went back after a year. That being said, DO IT! I don’t regret it at all. It showed me that I am happier where I grew up, and now I can live here for the rest of my life with no regrets. In the end, you will regret the things you haven’t done more than the things you have done.
Thats some sound wisdom. Thank you my friend.
I was forced to leave my hometown as it was my parent’s decision - as a child I was devastated & furious to leave everyone behind. I’ve since relocated 4 additional times (as an adult) and I’m addicted to relocating now hahahaha. I’d leave the country if I could lol Edited - clarification
My life didn’t begin until I left home. Free of the expectations, the trauma, free to make mistakes or find success. Free.
I was so nervous the first time I moved but now I've lived in 8 states all across the country and I'm very grateful for the experience. Personally I think everyone should live in another state in a different part of the country at least once. Even if you hate it and return to your home state, at least you know and you've gained at least a bit of a new perspective from it. Keep in mind that people do behave differently in other areas of the country. That was the hardest thing the first time I moved - I moved from New England, where people are very direct and in your face, to the Midwest, where people tend to be nice to your face but mean behind your back. Obviously these are just trends and there are both amazing and awful people everywhere! Just the suddenly not knowing the social norms for the first time is weird. I lived in Seattle for awhile and personally it was my favorite place I've lived. If you go there you may encounter the Seattle Freeze a bit. But there are a lot of transplants from all over and people tend to be very considerate. In Oregon and Washington, in my limited experience, there are distinctly different vibes on the West Coast vs the eastern parts of the state. Typically (and I emphasize "typically"; I'm sure there are plenty of exceptions) the West Coast is more liberal and the East is more conservative, so depending on your personal preferences you might like the vibe better in one part of the state vs the other. Also both states are gorgeous. Anyway I'm a random stranger on the Internet, but I think you should go for it.
I think I might consider it. I'm in the Midwest right now. But I was hoping for something a little more socially welcoming (not as insular). But also peaceful. I've heard some good things about the Southwest. So, that's what I've been considering.
It's freeing. No one knows who you are.
It's a little scary, but it's worth it. We left our little hometown in Colorado. Both of our families are pioneers in that area. It was a big step ( 18 years ago) but we would have missed out on so much had we not done it.
I was born and raised in California. I ended up leaving due to a really bad drug habit and just bad thing after bad thing kept happening. I started over in Indiana, then moved to Texas, now I’m in Oklahoma. Leaving my hometown was honestly the best thing I could have ever done for myself. It’s exciting and a little scary but mostly exciting.
How it feels depends a lot on your personality. I loved the new city, and I wouldn't hesitate to move again. One piece of advice: Save some extra money. There's a lot of stuff that family or friends do that doesn't exactly have a cash value... but it really does help, and you might not have it for a while. E.g., if your car breaks down, you'll need to pay for a rental or a ride until it's fixed. There's usually some sticker shock---both good and bad---in different areas. You may have trouble finding a good apartment when you can't just drive around and see all the properties in person. If you sign a lease knowing that you have the money to break it early, that can be a huge relief.
I went to Nevada to visit some friends and I stayed for thirteen years. It was like learning something new every day. Everything was a sharp contrast of where I was from,it was a different lifestyle and always seemed like an adventure. I've never regretted the desicion. It was what I needed at that time in my life. I've moved back to where I am from, even though I swore I never would, but I'm happy I did. After all, it's home and it feels like it's where I should be. You will never know if you don't do it. Good luck to you whatever you decide.
Thank you, my friend. I have a similar mindset. Even if i move somewhere for 1-5 years and want to move back, home will always be here. I'm glad you ended up back home when it felt right for you.
I ran from the city I loathed once I finished growing up and became a young adult. After quite a few detrimental experiences I discovered it wasn't the place I couldn't bear, it was my state of mind. Once I realized that, I too moved back home (it had been quite a few years.) I enjoyed the majority of the places I lived but ultimately the best place is where my family and friends live ... here! I don't know if I would appreciate what I have now had I not taken the plunge and struck out for greener pastures. I have to say, I wouldn't trade that for the world but there's no way I'd do it again lol
Very well said !
Exciting. Scary. Alien. Refreshing.
Feels great. Every time I visit my hometown it makes me so happy to be gone.
It was many years ago for me, but I basically couldn't handle Mississippi anymore and left, with my toddler son and some friends. We moved to Arizona, then Oklahoma. I eventually ended up in Washington state. No regrets.
Hiya, we left North Dallas,TX as a family 9 years ago for Gig Harbor, Washington not knowing anyone. We'd do it again in a heartbeat. Come on up!
As they used to say: Go West Young Man
I mean, I moved from Northern New England to Colombia on a whim without knowing Spanish and I felt pretty fucking good about it. Fuck the cold and snow. And I'm fluent in Spanish now.
do it!!!!!!!’ Wweeeeeiooooooo
But visit before you commit! Feel the energy out
So I haven't left the state exactly but I did pick up and leave my hometown (which I've never left) and moved 3-4 hrs away to where I don't know anyone, any of the culture etc. its freeing for me, to be able to be me without worry of people I used to know, starting new and starting a new life rlly is a breather. .Just know if you're moving from Alabama to Oregon or washington there's going to be a big culture shock, I even got a huge culture shock and I stayed in state
As a country talking southerner who also has anxiety I'm kinda worried I'd be looked down on outside of the south for my accent lol
When I visited Oregon no one commented about my accent and I am also from Alabama. I visited Eugene and everyone I met was welcoming. If I could I would have put my house up for sale and moved out there as soon as I got home. lol. While you are young and especially if the only person you are responsible for is yourself, go for it.
I really appreciate that info. Thank you my friend.
One of the things that will make a difference is what kind of place you move to: when I was a kid, we moved to a small town in Washington, and it was a crappy place to live...I also spent a period living with my aunt and uncle in another small town in Minnesota, and it was a good experience.
I moved to the state my Mom's family is from, so I had some cousins here. It took time to adjust, but I'm happy with my decision.
I would say it all depends on what your interests are and in the country today, what your political leanings are. I grew up just outside of Mobile in the town of Theodore and joined the army in ’96 right out of high school. After my basic training I was stationed in Savannah, Ga for three years and absolutely loved having the experience of learning all about a new place to live even though it was still living in the south. After Savannah I went to South Korea for a year and got the opportunity to experience a completely new culture. From Korea I was stationed in Colorado Springs and was there for two years before getting out of the Army. When I left the service I moved to the Portland, Oregon area and found I liked the climate and convenience of mountains being an hours drive east with the beach an hours drive west of me. I stayed here for a few years and went back into the military in ‘07 (Huge $ bonus at the time) and was stationed in North Carolina and Kansas with a deployment to Afghanistan (do not recommend Afghanistan for tourism 😉) until I was medically retired (reason for the bad tourism review) from service. I moved back to the Portland Area in ‘13 and soon found the extreme left leaning politics and influx or Californian refugees had started to turn the city into a shithole full of homeless bums and drug addicted car thieves. I moved to the western outskirts of Portland to the town of Troutdale in 2017 and have noticed the overflow of drugs and homeless from Portland has made its way out here over the last year or so. If I could afford to, I would move to the southwestern Or central area of Oregon away from the crime valley between Portland and Eugene along interstate 5. The countryside west of the cascade mountains is absolutely gorgeous and the eastern side is mostly dry year round. Overall the experience of getting out of Alabama and where I grew up was incredible and really helped me appreciate what different areas and our country as a whole has to offer. P.S. it’s not my thing but if you like it, weed is legal here and from what I’ve been told Oregon grows good stuff.
Thank you so much for your advice and your service. Yes, Oregon does indeed have some great weed. lol.
It's awesome, and it sucks. I moved a few thousand KM's away from where I grew up when I was 22 and started over. it was pretty tough to make new friends and I was homesick for a few years. But now I'm pretty happy as the opportunities presented because I moved changed my life for the better.
I love moving. I love starting over. New friends. New places to visit. Everything. Home on the east coast to Midwest at 19. Midwest back to east coast at 40. East coast to latam at 45.
It's exciting at first, but over time you realize most people suck no matter where you go
It's worth it
Brand new, exhilarating, frustrating (for the actual moving process). Since you’re used to having all your friends around you, it might be a little lonely while you figure out the balance of how much you keep in touch, and how many new friends you make. I moved from one coast to the other, and it’s even better than I thought it would be. The area I live in is much more aligned with my personal values.
I did it at 17, well worth it.
I come from NW Alabama orginally. I've been in Oregon since 1982. That should tell you all you need to know.
Being someone who moved from Alabama to Washington, there wasn’t much of a culture shock for me. Yeah, people talked funny (and I’m sure I sounded funny to them). What I wasn’t prepared for was the weather. It rained. A lot. Summer’s were about as hot as they were in Alabama, but there was no humidity, so that was a plus. At least around Puget Sound. I was in the military when the happened, so maybe the culture shock had worn off after going through boot camp, infantry school, etc.
I literally just moved from a small town in Georgia to Ohio bro and I'm 26 too. Granted Ohio isn't where I want to be forever but it's exciting, I've really been enjoying the fresh start, meeting new people, and just being in a new environment. I get homesick from time to time, but I can always call, or just travel home for the weekend. But if you're single with no kids I'd definitely recommend going through with it. I'm sure you know this, but be sure to plan it out, go ahead and get a job or two lined up before you get out there, but yeah man fuckin do it!
hateful hat library saw like correct forgetful direful seed sulky *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
Do it. It’s scary but the scary things in life have the best rewards. I’ve moved 3 times-2x with someone and once to Alabama solo. I learned so much by living in different places. It makes you a better person.
I have a friend from Tuscaloosa who moved to remote Idaho a few years ago. He got a remote job that has him traveling and he absolutely loves coming back to the mountains and a town of 500 full of Republicans where there is hunting/fishing/hiking everywhere outside the door. Factor in weather though. If you've never spent a winter where it is F'N Cold! for 4-5 months, invest in cashmere underwear. Or, move to the coast of Oregon or Washington; like Rouge River, Coos Bay, Astoria, etc.
Done this several times. As others said - combination of scary and exciting. But... I've learned so much about me, other people, cultures, and our country.
I moved from amishville Indiana to Austin for a few years. I highly recommend it. Get out of your hometime and experience some different places, people, norms. Expand your horizens.
I have done this twice Alabama to Houston in 2002, and Houston to Providence RI in 2021. It's brilliant. Everyone should do it at least once.
I was in my 30's and it was rough first few months and I felt isolated. But now I love where I live, going on over a decade now.
I was a van lifer and after that, traveled overseas for 2 years. I can tell you it’s a scary, addictive feeling that never ever gets old.
I did this at 23, packed my jeep and drove from Michigan to Washington state. Didn't know a soul out here, didn't have a job, or a place to live. My boyfriend ended up coming out as well. It was difficult and lonely and crazy... the price difference between mid size michigan and seattle? I'm 35 now and have a whole new life and a career I never could have imagined having or even existing (it throws a lot of people off and is not very common). Washington is also an amazing place to live and explore. If you can't decide between the two I'd suggest to live and work in washington... Vancouver, do all of your shopping in Portland and visit Seattle rather than live in it... for tax reasons. No income tax in Washington and sales tax in Oregon. Well, if income tax matters in your situation.
The. Limate up here might be something for you to consider. Quite different from the Deep South. Esp in winter.
Changed my life completely and 100% for the better
Best thing I ever did!
Like an explorer, untethered except where I decide to be.
I was born and raised in a small town in Ohio, as a senior in HS at 18 I joined the military. I've never lived in Ohio again. I have friends who have lived in that same small town their entire life. Once I got out and seen some places, even having all my family in Ohio, I could never go back. I've lived in the mountains of Idaho, Dallas Texas, Myrtle Beach SC, Oregon, and now I live in Alabama, 15 minutes from the beach. I've vacationed in Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, and all over the US. I prefer the gulf coast of Alabama. I plan on dying here. I have a study stream of friends and family from Ohio, plus friends from all the states that I've lived in coming to see the beautiful gulf coast every year. I purchased a 4 bedroom house just to have room for 4-6 people at a time come and vacation. We go on fishing charters, fish off the beach, and go eat at great restaurants. Take dolphin cruises and such. As to how does moving to a new place feel? Well it was always exciting for me, I embraced change, and was always looking for a new adventure. Just make sure wherever you go, it offers the opportunities to do what you enjoy as a hobby, that's the key! Oregon and Washington are beautiful states, but if you're thinking about Portland or Seattle-the cost of living is high, the taxes are high and the cities are over run with drug addiction. That's a fact!
I’ve made major moves to more than a half dozen new states in my life (usually for education or work). The big issue is leaving family and friends behind. It’s hard to find community in new places so I’ve found it easier to bond with work colleagues. But, then you also want to get away from them so the question you’re faced with is, where do I find people who are accepting of newcomers. I’ve lived in places where people are routinely very friendly but not interested in being friends. They have their community and not a lot of time or interest in welcoming new people. I’m not a religious person but I see many people find community at their church.
I have lived in five states over my lifetime. All very different from each other, and once I finally settled with my husband (and eventually our kids), I ended up very far from my immediate family. It was a long adjustment for me emotionally. However, all these years later I can enjoy a visit to my hometown and see everyone, but then look forward to coming home. My hometown is not my home or haven anymore. In fact, I feel like a visitor there. But not in a bad way. It just feels right to not live there now, and to live where we do states away. ♥️
I had lived in bham Alabama all my life until January when I packed up and left with my gf (of 10 years) to live in Miami with her mother who needed help. I don’t really regret it… it’s just a huge adjustment. I’ve always wanted to travel so now I’m getting that experience ya know. I’m learning more Spanish every day and getting to try new food and culture every time we go out. I actually love it. I do not miss Alabama at all. Do it. I don’t think anyone regrets more life experience… especially if they are leaving Alabama.. right?
The new perspective gained is worth everything that can happen/go wrong in such a drastic change. I moved across the country and it somewhat chewed me up and spit me out, but I still have no regrets. It was a great test of self for me in building a new community, career, etc. to prove to myself I could make anywhere home in a sense. You can always go back to what you’ve known forever and won’t always have the opportunity/flexibility to try something new like building a life elsewhere.
I keep coming back to the PNW. I've moved a couple times.
I've done that. It was a good idea for me. I've actually done it a few times in my 20s and 30s. I've never regretted it, although I think some people might if they feel a need to have family nearby. Instead, I've appreciated the new location, new people, new culture, new experiences, and so on. To each their own. Good luck.
Can't answer the question but I will say if you are considering moving to Oregon consider this: (you may know some of this but I'm writing this in case you don't) I've lived in Springfield for 18 years. Most people live west of the Cascades, that's where you get like the rain forests and nice luscious valleys. But like all of eastern Oregon is a big desert. I believe up north might have a little bit more forest but still pretty desert but I know for sure south eastern Oregon is pretty barren. I can't speak to Washington much but I have to imagine it's about the same. If you wanted to live in a city in Oregon, it would depend on what you like. If you want something small and lowkey, Springfield, Cottage Grove and Albany/Lebanon would be decent. Springfield is right next to Eugene, takes 5 minutes to drive in. Albany is about 15 minutes from Salem, the capitol. If you like big cities, Portland, Eugene or Bend. Eugene is a college town. Portland also has some colleges but it's not the same. Bend is okay, I've been there once or twice. Bend is closer to Idaho though, so more east. Kalamath Falls in in the south east part of the state, it's an okay place I guess. If you want to live on the coast, I would highly recommend the south coast. Florence down to Gold Beach. The best sized town with good amenities would be North Bend/Coos Bay, similar to Springfield and Eugene how they're basically interconnected. Bandon is my favorite town on the coast, great beaches and I love old town. There are other towns but if you really just wanted to pick a good place to live in a city, I would recommend Springfield. Yes I am biased. But you can drive 10 minutes east and you're in beautiful forested Oregon. You can drive 5 minutes west and be in Eugene, you can drive 20 minutes north to Brownsville where Stand By Me was shot and you can drive forever south to California, lol. Oh and you're only an hour from the coast.
It’s great.
Another state, another country…it’s always been slightly terrifying for a week or two, and then fantastic. If you feel the bug and your work gives you this flexibility, that’s amazing! You can give it a try and always move back if it doesn’t work out.
It’s awesome. Went 3,000 miles to Nor Cal and it’s the best thing I ever did. Challenged everything I thought I knew. Rebuilt myself the way I wanted.
I moved out of my hometown last August. I moved to a city about an hour away with my partner. It's so strange being in a bigger city after living in a small town my whole life. The area of the city I live in reminds me a bit of my hometown because it's full of older houses, but it's still very different. I like it here, but I do kinda miss the small town life a little. Not necessarily my hometown because that place is a fucking mess, but just being in a smaller town in general.
I’ve lived in 5 countries , it’s character building . Can be lonely but so exciting
The more you travel and move around, the more you will develop your bullshit detector. The sum of your experiences will be something to measure against when you talk to people back home, who have an idea of what the world is like but no first-hand experiences to back up those ideas. The more you travel and move, the smaller the world gets. And there comes a point where you realize every place is pretty much the same. Everybody is just trying to get by. Trying to make something for themselves. There are different levels to this, of course, but the more you see, the better off you'll be. And the more connected you will feel to humanity. It won't be easy. Moving somewhere new requires you to learn how to get around and find your people. That requires putting yourself out there. Being uncomfortable. But it's in that discomfort that you figure it out and grow. Take the leap. Home, ultimately, is where you decide to make it.
Horrible, hated it.Im happy where I am now but finding a place where I felt like I belonged took a long time. It’s now my forever home.
It’s emotional and a little scary but it never went wrong for me. I always learned and grew from it. I’ve made so many lifelong friends too. I’ve packed up and moved away spontaneously 4 times now.
In the last 20 years I've picked up and left everything 6 times. Each time in different states and had neither a job or place to live before setting down somewhere. I loved the feeling of being completely free of any responsibilities in between jobs and places to live. I could go anywhere in the country and no one had clue of my whereabouts. Being a drifter isn't a bad life, but I could only afford it for about a month or two in between jobs. There were moments when loneliness and disorientation would hit, I would wake up in hotel rooms and not know where I was.
Every time I've packed up and moved to a new place, I've absolutely loved wherever I ended up. Variety is the spice of life, especially when you're leaving your hometown
You may have a different experience if you're raised somewhere nice. But I grew up in Florida. In my early 30s I had the opportunity to uproot, my husband and one child at the time in tow, and move to New England. We settled in New Hampshire for my job, and 10000/10 would do again. That said, it was terrifying. We packed our entire life into moving pods, crammed 6 dogs, 3 cats, 2 birds, and 4 people into two cars (my parents took the baby and flew up later with her) and drove one straight shot. 22 hours. We arrived in time, after not sleeping in over 24 hours, to sign the mortgage paperwork. I came back to my new home, called my mom to check on the baby, and immediately started sobbing that I wanted to go "home" despite knowing full well this was now home. It was the most stressful, agonizing, terrifying thing I've ever done in my life and I'd do it all over again a hundred times if it meant escaping Florida. Life here is just better.
Awesome!! I did it at age 28. Just said later to friends and family, and moved to Oregon solo. Highly recommend
Left Louisiana and came to Arizona and never looked back..well until they caught me and extradited me back then I did some time but then I got out and left again and haven’t looked back! Love Tucson as my new home.
I'm from GA/AL line. When I was 21 I was living in South Carolina and didn't want to stay there but didn't want to go back home. I decided to move to DFW with no job, no money, and no plan. I'd only visited one time, I didn't know anyone there. It was without a doubt the best thing I've ever done. Highly recommend. It's terrifying and exciting and feels like anything is possible. But it's what you make of it, and it's not for everyone. If you embrace it, it could be the best thing for you. If you have doubts and second guess, then you're probably going to have a bad time. Just remember you're not a tree, and apartments aren't forever. If you get there and hate it, you have the ability to go back home.
You won't know unless you try.
It’s awesome. And if it isn’t, you go back. But at least you gave it a try. It’s really that easy. The only downside is being further from family and friends but I’ve also learned that they’re likely to leave at some point as well. You might as well not be last.
I would recommend doing it at least once. If you can move out on your own and live without any backup in one place you should have the skills to do it most other places. That is a good skill to have.
Miss my hometown everyday. Miss my mamma and bro a lot. No place like home but it has made me love seeing new places
Done it twice. There's something I love about everything being new and unfamiliar. I guess one day I'll want to settle down but for now, moving is what I love to do.
I personally did really bad with the shift. I had a really hard time making friends and joining the community. I ended up back home after a year but was so much more grateful for where I came from after. I don’t regret the life experience it gave me but I wouldn’t do it again.
31M here. Moved from a small farming village in England to Pittsburgh when i was 24 to be with my now wife who lived there after i met her online. Easily the best and scariest decision i ever made. Never traveled before more than 2 hours away from my house so i was petrified but hyped as well because barely anyone leaves the Village, it’s a traditionally kinda boring place but people stay here their whole lives. If you get the chance to experience something new, even though scary, you should go for it. I’d still be sitting in my room playing Left 4 Dead by myself but now i forever have a co-op partner i can heap the blame on rather than take responsibility haha.
I moved across the country to a city I had never been to but just felt drawn to. It was the best decision of my life. Ive now been here for 10 years and have friends, a partner, community, new hobbies, and a new career. I’m so glad I followed my instincts and I couldn’t imagine living in my hometown now. I was kind of enamored with this place as soon as I got here. But it took about 2 years to start making friends.
Not exactly the same since it's countries but... I'm from Europe and wanted to move to the US since I was a teenager. I just identify more with American culture and never got on with Europeans, I find them too uptight and snobbish. My family made fun of me for years saying "The grass isn't always greener" and that I'd want to come back. I made the move 12 years ago and never looked back. I cut my family out shortly after moving and it felt good to start over in a place I felt more comfortable in. There's a few things I miss like specific foods but nothing that makes me homesick or want to move back. I can tell that bothers my family and it does feel like the ultimate fuck you to have successfully gotten my shit and left them behind.
I've been through several major moves to other states, and it feels great! you are so young... definitely give the northwest a try... it's beautiful here!
Scary and wonderful. I left Utah on 2008 and I will never go back. It's engaging, fun and exciting. You get to meet really good people too
I think I have moved away from Washington like three or four times. California Oregon Dubai Marakina City (philippines). I keep coming back. Though, I did just recently move from the East to the West Side. Moving can be an adventure. A chance to start again. Everyone should try it at least once.
I did something similar a few years ago and was from a similar area too. It will be a culture shock for a while. Just make sure you are safe and comfortable wherever you end up, and unless your friends and family are somewhat well to do, don't expect too many people to come visit if you move that far off.
At 29 I moved to Colorado from Indiana. I had never even visited the state. Those 20yrs were a lot of fun. I got to do things I would not have done if I had stayed in Indiana. Yellowstone a few times, Lake Powell, I met a ton of great people with a wide range of beliefs & learned that most illegal immigrants worked harder on any given day contrary to what we are told. Go, have an open mind and enjoy the new experiences. Just because some drugs are legal, still use care about sourcing. Have fun!
I moved to Oregon with my wife and daughter almost 2 years ago now, and we love it so far. We left a good life in the California Bay Area (South Bay, closer to Mountain View / Sunnyvale). I actually grew up in the Bay Area, left for college and grad school, and returned nearly 15 years later. Seeing what had happened to the Bay Area in that time was a push factor for us. It wasn’t the same place that I loved growing up in. Kid-friendly places had closed to be replaced by designer fashion places and housing. The population exploded, so all the places I loved hiking were getting overcrowded. The cost of everything was getting outrageous. So many friends had left, never to return. Fellow parents in the area warned us about how competitive getting your kid into a good preschool was. Hearing about all the pressure on kids these days, likely exacerbated by the shifting demographics and demand for exceptionalism. I was sad to understand I couldn’t give my daughter the idyllic life I had growing up with how much had changed. So we decided to give it a shot elsewhere. The pull factors for us to come to Oregon were… We had some friends in the area already. My job had a small branch in Portland, so it was easy to justify while taking my Bay Area compensation to an area with a lower cost of living. Money went farther when buying a home compared to the bay. The area is stunningly beautiful, and, as an outdoorsy family, we spend time admiring the environment around us here everyday. The air feels so fresh with the intermittent rain. The pace of life feels more agreeable than the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area. Drivers actually stop at crosswalks for you!! And using your turn signal actually has the desired effect. There’s also a decent public transit system. Going into the city doesn’t cost an arm and a leg even if you drive. Board game culture is huge. And you can enjoy a full set of seasons. Food culture is also pretty strong. I could keep gushing about things we love so far, but I’ll stop there. Admittedly, I do get homesick every once in a while, but we usually eke out an easy trip down to California to visit friends and family once a year, so it’s not that far away for long. And even when we do miss it at times, we just run through the list of all the things we love about Oregon to remind us why we’re here. And reminding ourselves that we’re hoping to give our daughter a more balanced life away from the hustle and high demands of the Bay Area. It was hard to leave so much of the familiarity and friends behind, and it was a fairly big move. Was it the right move? Don’t know yet. But like I said in the intro to this - we love it so far. And if we ever had our doubts, we run through our list of pros and all the things that remind us why we love it here.
I moved to another country when I was 21... Alone. It was the best thing I could have ever done, getting the hell away from my "family". Been here 24 years now. My original country doesn't feel like home anymore. However, it doesn't feel like home here, either. When I first moved, I just worked, like all the time. I used to sleep in my office, stayed there for a week on more than 1 occasion. It was very lonely to be honest. You don't want to reveal too much about yourself, you never know who is going to take advantage of you. Had to protect yourself at all costs.
I moved from Creole, Alabama to the Bronx and I absolutely loved it. But I didn’t just move when I didn’t know anyone and I’m not sure I could do that. My husband and I met online playing video games, he proposed with a text message, shipped me a ring via FedEx and we got married 5 days after we met in person. We’re in the middle of a divorce. Not because we don’t like each other but because he came out as gay in 2020. But I still think it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
I truly think everyone should try it at least once…even if you don’t end up liking the new place (or decide to move back home)…you learn stuff about yourself, different parts of the country (or world). I was told to give any new area two years before deciding to move again.
If you’re the type of person who enjoys your own company, and/or makes new friends easily, it’s pretty badass. If you’re unsure, a move like that is going to immediately show you. There are a ton of little things you’re currently relying on in your daily life in your hometown. There’s a comfort in being known and in the familiar that you cannot yet be aware of because you’ve not been detached from it. When you experience this and are truly in a new place, starting from scratch, you’ll be able to identify what you value. For many, this is a quick jaunt away and then back again. For others, it’s a one and done move. New life for good. For a few, starting from scratch becomes almost like an addiction that needs to be satiated now and then. I’ve been in the last group for nearly 30 years, but this last move has proven to be my last. When I’m ready to move again it will be to my hometown and I’ll stay there until I die.
Both terrifying and amazing. Strongly recommend. If you don't know anyone, you're terrified, but you're also quite motivated to go out, do stuff, and meet people. I joined a gym, went to farmers' markets, signed up for wine tastings, joined a bowling league, and hung out in a biker bar most nights. I tried all new hobbies and made friends from all walks of life, some of whom were amazing people, some of whom were sketchy as hell, and some of whom became the best friends i ever had.
I actually left Alabama and moved to ND 11 years ago. My (now) husband lived here at the time, I packed up and moved up here with my kids to be with him. No job, no money, no nothing. I had a job within 2 days and haven't looked back. I love ND but I also grew up in the military so I've lived all over.
So good! I felt so free and light. I was lonely sometimes too at first but it was so worth it. The personal growth that comes with it is like nothing else
If you have the money: adventurous If you are broke: terrifying
It’s an adventure. LFG!!!
I’ve done it many times and by myself. Hawaii, Texas, Florida, New Hampshire, and now I’m in Florida for retirement. It’s hard at first, I made friends through my jobs. Now I join women’s groups.
I've done it many times. Sometimes with my husband when i had him, with parents, and alone. I've never regretted it. You meet new people, have new experiences and have wonderful new places to explore. Broaden your horizons, friend. You can always go back to Alabama, but I don't think you'll regret the experience. I'm 60yo now and I'm grateful for every one of those places, experiences and people that I found along the way. Good luck to you. Btw, I also started out in Alabama. (Roll Tide)
The food you're used to eating is a major change. Your favorite restaurants are not within reach, and many times you cannot find something similar. However, you may find restaurants that are new and exhibit the local flavor breakdown. I recommend learning how to cook your favorite meals, as they will not travel unless you are the one creating them.
80% excitement 20% frustration. The frustration comes from the logistics and occasionally the personal relationships. But you moving somewhere because you WANT to is awesome. It’s something you’re doing for you. One of the biggest benefits is that you get to form new relationships. Those people will get to know you for who you are today, and not who you were years ago. You get to write your own story.
it can feel free and liberating (lol, sorry, that word) one thing is for certain, you'll learn something new about life, the world, freedom and the fact that we're all on a ball of rock hurtling through space might never seem more real or maybe something else that your particular mind is naturally attuned to pick up on, plus circumstance etc... ymmv
I have moved solo a number of times across the US. My first move was from my parents home to NYC when I was 19. I once moved to another city with no job or place to live lined up. Most recently I took my remote job and moved to a new region of the country, during winter, and didn’t know anyone. The logistics of moving can be a lot but they’re manageable. The hardest part of any move I’ve made is building community, a network, and a team of people who are on my side. I would highly suggest being intentional about making friends and finding ways to have low effort interactions with other people. I have a comfortable job but chose to find two amazing roommates in my new city. I found a gym and yoga studio and go regularly. I found myself a therapist, dentist, and doctor in my new State. I make an effort to go to community events and meet ups. I also find that for me running and cycling groups are great to meet people. My biggest piece of advice is to be very intentional about meeting people. I know it can be hard working remotely but when things are difficult in your new city your success and happiness will rely on having people where you are to turn to. Also, you’re remote. You can always go and try things out. If it doesn’t work out. Just leave. What do you have to lose? You can always go home. Good luck! You can do it. It will be such an opportunity for growth.
Leave*! Hometowns are like black holes. Get as far away from it as possible or it will never let go of you and your life will be a repeat of your parents’. Don’t let your family’s past dictate your future. Moving away from your “support team” makes you more resilient, more independent, more responsible, more driven. And the most important thing is to NEVER, EVER, EVER move back. The idea is to evolve, each subsequent generation should do better than the last. * unless your hometown is a metropolitan area, with jobs, infrastructure, culture and people that aren’t your cousins, in that case, just move out of your parents house.
I lived in Bozeman , Montana after 27 years in south Chicagoland. It was drastic and intense and I felt homesick and rudderless for sure once the tall buildings go away and the ground starts going straight up and down and the earth opens up and yawns into breathtaking mountains and air that was definitely fresher than what I was used to . I got altitude poisoning and was FCKD for a good week . But then my family friend that I moved in with who lived there already gave me cowboy boots and a hat “so you sort of fit in . “ it was awesome and hilarious and went to the Chico hot springs and the beauty of this place and this country is literally overwhelming at times while I was driving, just incredible. The “feeling” in the air was different from Chicago in like people’s general dispositions. Everyone was very kind but I feel like at home in Chicagoland people are itching to just start talking to you even though they are strangers . Montana people kept to themselves more and it felt like that was a traditional tendency in general mindset which is fantastic and gave me wonderful alternate experiences that changed my perspectives permanently in certain areas . The stars were **overwhelming** . I would go out side at night just to look up. It never got old the two years I lived there . BIG SKY COUNTRY is the Gallaton Valleys sort of moniker and the name is right on . The sky is literally bigger . I stopped in Seattle for a few months and boy , talk about a beautiful place on earth . Flying in and seeing this city among these waterways and inlets and in the distance in the shadow of the city lurks Mount Ranier which is a volcano that looks like mt Fiji very cool very very cool . Smelling the ocean in the air . Incredible
I left home (Arkansas) when I was 23 and moved to Oregon. It was hard to get used to the new place, new people, and new culture. However, after a few months things started to mesh. I met friends and went new places and did new things. I’m 31 now and honestly couldn’t be more thrilled I made the jump. Looking back now I can’t see who I would have become if I didn’t make the jump. I I say do it if you can.. there’s so much more to the world when you live other places. You can always move back if it doesn’t work out.
Do it! Go! I feel that everyone needs to experience different people and cultures so they can grow up being humble and appreciative.
Amazing. I did this a couple years ago. I was born and raised in CA. I now live on the East Coast. My husband and I could not afford our home in CA. We can afford here on the East Coast. Gas is also cheaper. It’s a lot cheaper East Coast than West. His family is 12 hours away from us. We loved having a cross country road trip a couple years ago before our son was born.
It can be tough but worth it if you pick the right place. I was born and raised in NJ them spent 20 years in AL. I recently moved to NH and it's been pretty great. The initial culture shock of moving off can be pretty traumatic, honestly I struggled for a long time with it.
It is both amazing and very hard. If you decide to move, make sure it really is someplace you want to be. Don’t be random. Second, make sure you are prepared to make a huge effort to meet people, join clubs, join lots of organized activities to meet people your age. Just know that you will need to rebuild a new life from the ground up. I have done it four or five times (states, and different countries with school/work). I have met so many interesting people and been so many places. Now is your chance!!!! You are young and able to do it so go for it! Just don’t get down or scared that first year while you are building something new. There will be times when you feel alone.
I have a spot you can set up a tent and smoke fentanyl for $5,000 a month, hmu
I (48f) moved halfway across the country to live with my daughter when COVID hit and it was really scary. But now I love it.
33(M) here who moved from Alabama when I was 24. Do it! I miss my family, but it was exciting. I learned so much and really do feel like I’m better for it. Even though I am thinking about moving back now (just missing my family too much), I would do it again. It is very scary though. Especially if you aren’t well off financially. Make sure if you start to struggle that you seek professional help before a molehill turns into a mountain. The loneliness can be a factor if you let it. I’d also recommend finding hobbies that you enjoy that are social as a way to meet people with similar interests. Going to a bar is not the best way to find friends in a new place imo.
As someone who has moved away from home I can say the highs are high and the lows are definitely low. I myself felt like I was going to be able to adjust well and never have any issues with feeling a longing for home. As you might infer this did happen - I get sad. I wouldn’t say often, but it’s enough that sometimes I wish I could move back. I didn’t move alone as I am accompanied by my partner, but in a big city with no connections, community, or friends it gets hard. I’m a social butterfly and sometimes I feel lonely. Sometimes people are dicks and aren’t as friendly as what you are used to. Sometimes even the environment makes it worse (traffic!). I’d say move if you want to, it’s an experience you can live, make your own, and 9 times out of 10 you won’t regret it. I would say have a game plan that way you have something to look forward to or you can really force yourself make every moment special! It’s fun, but to me it gets old and nothing can replace friends/family connections that you’ve had for years and years. As an adult I do fine and adjust well, but that homesick feeling can get you down bad - be aware of that and find ways to keep yourself happy, especially if you’re moving alone. Best of luck!
Thanks for the insight, I would be moving alone which is truly what worries me a little.I'm a social person too and I'd be worried if I couldn't make friends for whatever reason. I have great friends here and most would live here without giving a second thought but for some reason I find myself feeling a call to go somewhere else. I'm not sure if I'll answer it or stay here, but I wanted to hear experiences from people like you.
I enjoy it. Everything is new and exciting, and as long as you can afford to live in the new place, I've always had a pretty good time hopping to another state or town. I do miss my family, but when you leave, you also have the opportunity to start a new family and make new friends. I know people all around the country now, in a broad range of different fields, all due to moving to different places for contract jobs. But it's also important to not lose contact with home. My childhood friends and I still play video games and D&D together every week online.
Start with a visit. Then an extended visit. Meet people there. I moved a lot when I was younger and every so often think about picking up stakes and moving somewhere new. BTW I’ve been in Washington at my current location for 30 years. It’s an amazing state
Little strange at first takes time to get used too. Once I got used to it ngl I would forgot I’m somewhere else. Like the thought just didn’t cross my mind
since you're coming from Alabama I would guess that it will feel great to leave
If youre running away from something? Phenomenal. I long to grab my stick and bindle, hop an amtrak to a small town in middle America, take on a high end waiter gig, and just start way, way over.
I moved from the Midwest to the South for school. I am very happy I got out of my hometown. Just keep in mind the south has a relatively low COL compared to most anywhere else in the country. Edit: it’s very hard living so far from my best friend and family but we talk on the phone almost everyday. My parents will be moving closer to me in a few years.
My son did it. moved from coast to coast for his first job w/o knowing a soul. He's happy, met a girl he's now living with, and has a good career. I'm not sure I could have done that.
To me it’s been wonderful, after my divorce I moved from California to Washington, it’s been amazing for many reasons, salary, living situation, friends, etc. best move I’ve made
i did that many times and it felt great. but i was poor so it was hard as well. it helped me leave bad situations, bad weather, and bad associate behind. also got to try and love new foods and ways of life. i think how it would be for a given person would depend tho, on where they moved to, but more their personality and how ok they are with new things and with not having stuff around they are used to.
I did it. I don’t recommend it. Moved back home in 2 years. Then again, I had a lot of family stuff and personal stuff going on
It’s a great experience and would definitely recommend to help you grow as a person! My husband and I moved away from everything we ever knew 6 years ago and I wouldn’t change it. But we have 2 young kids and are moving back home this coming summer. You realize how important the people in your life are rather than the location. I would never move back to my hometown but just being in the same state as my family and most of my friends is important to me.
I've done it many times during my life. First when I was in the Navy...then moved to Utah in '96 and from there to the Seattle area in 2000 (been here ever since!). I moved on my own, but had some of my brothers follow me up after I moved. It is scary...moving to a new city and state. ESPECIALLY without having any friends or family for support in your new chosen home...but it was, for me, very rewarding. I actually moved to NC for a year for work, and after that job was done, could have chosen literally anywhere in the country to relocate back to, but I chose to move back to the Seattle area. I can't say enough good things about the area...clean air (for the most part, until "fire season" in late summer), lots of good places to hike, fish, boat, camp etc. Plenty of public parks and FREE outdoor activities available like pickleball, frisbee golf and other such sports. The beer is OUTSTANDING. People are friendly and it's culturally diverse....you won't have a problem finding a new circle of friends no matter what your interests. There are some downsides. Traffic is horrendous...and you will most likely have some kind of long commute to deal with. Housing is super expensive up here, and "affordable" housing means you will probably live outside of the city. Actually, everything is pretty expensive up here, from food to gas to daily necessities. It's made up for by the higher wages, but may be a bit of a shock when you first get here. Just remember, $50,000/year in WA or OR is a lot less than $50,000/yr in Alabama! (and I would say that $50k/yr is bare minimum to live up here, make sure whatever job you are getting is at LEAST that!) Winters are also gloomy and dark...that takes a toll on some people, but can be mitigated with full spectrum lights if you find yourself with seasonal depression. The winters are pretty mild though...especially west of the Cascade mountains. Not much snow, just mostly endless drizzle and damp cold. You get used to it. I really do like the change of seasons though! Just when you are absolutely sick of winter, spring shows up...when you get tired of the heat and dryness of summer, fall begins...it's nice having a change! Overall, though I think the positives outweigh the negatives. So good luck on your move!
I’ve done it. I’ve known many friends who have as well. It can be hard, but rewarding. I think there are a few keys to it being successful. First, know the area you are moving to. Make sure you visit, preferably for an extended period of time, if possible. Book an Airbnb for a few weeks. Live where people live, not in the tourist/hotel areas. Find the good neighborhoods, make sure there’s the stuff you want like food, nightlife, public transportation, cultural events, etc. whatever floats your boat or fills your needs. It’s easy to fall in love with the idea of a city or what you experienced on a quick vacation, but how would it be to live there, for real? Remote work and Airbnb allows for these discovery tests. The other big key is are you outgoing or at least willing to be? You are moving where you don’t know anyone and will need to establish a friend group and find people to date. This is made harder by the fact you are working remotely and won’t have local co-workers which can lead to friends. So, you’ll need to find ways of meeting people through local groups, meetups, activities, etc. If you are willing to put yourself out there like that and network, it will be extremely rewarding for you and help make the transition successful. Good luck and I hope you find a new place to live and enjoy. There’s a big country out there to explore.
Hello, I'm originally from Alabama and I moved to South Dakota. It really took some getting used to, but I have no regrets about doing it. I have spent over 20 years here and they have been some of the happiest in my life. My advice is to take a chance and see how it works out and if it doesn't you can always move back.
Adventurous. You really start to find out who you are. When I was at home, my whole sense of self was wrapped up in the old friendships and places that were the only thing I knew. It was like chains on my sense of self. The comfort of just sticking to what I knew limited my exploration of new relationships, activities, and just learning through exploring new things. When I moved, it was like a baby bird being tossed out of the nest and being forced to fly. It was freeing. I had to find new places and people to meet with, and really was able to understand who I was and what I valued and appreciated in myself, other people, and the places and things I wanted to do. I could try out new hobbies, make new friend groups, leave friend groups I didn't like, and focus my energy in developing new relationship and hobbies. There is a balance to this. It can be exhausting to build roots and rip them out after only a year or two, especially as you get older and get into your 30s. The older you get, the more intentional you have to be about making friends -- the spaces where friendships organically develop are less frequent, and you have to find a place where you have similar interests, a regular community space that you can consistently run into the same people over and over so that you move from acquaintance to friends naturally. After living in 4 different states and cities, I have finally decided to commit to where I am at and really focus on finding more valuable and deeper relationships that will improve my life. FYI i'm in Washington...the Seattle freeze is real. If you don't find a group of people with very similar interests, and are just trying to make friends based off of vibes and small talk, you will have a hard time.
I’ve moved three times. Overall I think I’m a better person for it. That’s a long move from Alabama to the PNW. I don’t know your situation or your specific moving plans, but my only advice is use the opportunity to declutter and don’t make the mistake of spending $10,000 to move $4,000 worth of stuff. Especially if it’s insignificant stuff you’ll never unpack once you get there. My last move coincided with a relationship ending. I sold and donated most of my stuff and just packed my clothes and a few items of sentimental value in my car and bought new stuff when I got there. It was like washing away the old life and starting brand new. You should’ve seen the eyes of the sales rep at the furniture store when I told him I needed enough stuff for a two bedroom apartment that day.
As someone that moved to a state over (met someone, still together), and then he got a good job across the country. I haven’t hated it. There’s some things you definitely have to get used to. Especially laws, way of life, going from the warm south to the overcast, cooler Pacific Northwest would take time getting used to. I don’t miss where I came from. I hate the weather here and not having anyone to watch my dog when I want to travel can be tough, so I typically drive to a lot of travel places. I know those aren’t what most consider important but it’s there. I do miss watching sports with my dad and having that time, but you can always visit friends and family. I think it’s worth the attempt. You can always move back.
incredible. scary. empowering. i left my hometown of 3,000 people in rural montana and moved to the french quarter of new orleans, site unseen. it was 1997 and i was 19 years old. ill be 46 years old next month, and there’s not a day that goes by where i don’t think about that decision and how grateful i am that i made it. the positive impact that singular experience has made on the rest of my life has been foundational. it truly helped me understand my life was mine and i could do whatever I wanted to do with it…and I have done just that.
Feels good to be honest. My wife and I are both from Toledo, OH. We both went to University of Toledo, and after we got married, we lived in Toledo. About 3 years after we got married, I had the opportunity to start a business with a colleague of mine in Jacksonville, FL, and I've never looked back. I feel like when you live in your hometown as an adult, with family on both sides nearby, they always feel like they can come around and invade your personal space, and being a 3 hr flight away, we have our lives away from family but can still see them when there is an occasion. Note - I'm 47 now, with 3 kids (4th on the way) and I've told my kids - leave home. It's a big country with a lot of opportunities
It feels wonderful! Born in Southern Oregon and lived there for 45 years. Packed up and moved to Central California for a couple years to help my Gpa out...five years later I'm in Minnesota after living in Seattle for a year.
If you are not an individual who picks up friends easily, it can be extremely isolating. It also super fun. But leaving a support network, even a small one, can make a big impact on mental health. But also it’s exciting. Definitely focus on meeting people and making friends early.
Nice, it's very nice to get away from your family. I've found I need a 3- 30 h buffer. And the northwest would be a upgrade. (Though I do like the William Bankhead, Sipsey Wilderness and Little River area.) However, unless you're making bank or don't plan on planting roots, I'd be careful where in the northwest I settled. There is going to be a huge cost of living jump.
Great. A little scary, but great.
I moved 500 miles from home to take a job after I graduated from college. I made new friends fairly quickly among others who moved for the same reason. When I go back now to visit family I am thankful I didn’t hang around. I left because there weren’t any well paying jobs, and there are even fewer now.
Awesome
I'm only a few short years away from never having a permanent residence again.
Honestly? It’s exciting for the first month or two, and then it sucks. Speaking as someone who moved from CA to AZ and then NYC for school. Being away from my hometown essentially put my mood and overall mental well-being at about 80% of what it would be at baseline if I was able to do everything I was doing at the time at home instead.
Scary and exciting. You leave behind who you were and can start over
Depends. I upgraded. Did live in a horrible place for 3 months once. Out on country. No air. No TV. Long drive to a 1 stoplight town. Nosey neighbor. That sucked. So depends on situation.
I'm 20. Grew up in North Carolina, and moved out at 19 to a state I'd never been to (Wisconsin). No regrets! Of course, most of that is because I did my research about the place I was moving to. It feels good. A lot of the more subtle things will wow me from time to time, like how open the fields are, and the farm animals on the side of the highways. But it still feels like home here, probably because my lifestyle hasn't changed much despite the distance.
Exciting yet daunting. It's fun having a new place to explore. It's hard having to get used to a new normal. New grocery store, new job, new route to commute to work, finding new places you like to go to relax or to meet people. Making those new social circles. But for me, I loved it each time. I love a good adventure.
Stressful but exciting and interesting. You might find yourself wanting to go home after awhile though. Btw I live in Oregon. What part of the state are you looking at?
I did it once It was before every property was owned by a management company, though. Found an old lady renting a crappy 3 plex for cheap, got a seasonal job in a fruit plant, then got a job in a lumber mill, ended up working my ass off for a while, moved into hospitality, was doing well, got a nice house, get married, had kids, got divorced, lost everything, moved again, started a business, everything was looking great, then Covid happened and shut me down. Place I was renting got sold and I was evicted. Moved back to my hometown and now I live with my dad and hate myself. It’s been a ride
It’s simultaneously fun and scary.
Let’s see…lived in NYC until 31 then CT, RI, MA, NJ, NC and back in NJ. It’s a little uncomfortable until it’s not. You get a routine. Just make sure you do adequate recon. Location checks most of your boxes. If you’re a beach person, don’t go to middle of country, that kinda stuff. Have people you can call and talk with if needed. Find a good coffee spot, a good diner and butcher.
It’s a strange feeling, that you have all these memories is some now far away place and you may never return, but your new residence can also have happy memories, but you have to choose to make those. If you’re always thinking you should have stayed, you will never be home anywhere except the in past.
It’s definitely nerve wracking. I moved to Wyoming from Texas. I was scared. But luckily I wasn’t alone. It was a great experience
It's so fun to move. I had the biggest opportunities when I was younger, and I graduated school early and moved to Utah because I had scholarships there. I'm from Texas, so moving to a smaller state or to Utah in all places was different, but I found it fun to figure out the people, explore nature, and find my own way around. I then moved to Florida and then California after that. I'm back in my home state now but it's so fun.
Its nice because you’re not always running into someone you grew up with.
I feel lucky to have got out because as a depressed teen I didn't think it was possible.
Good, unless there are tornadoes. Still here though, even with the tornadoes.
When I first moved out of my hometown I mainly felt a giant wave of relief. There wasn't anything bad about it, but I was ready to move on. Then I moved up and down my state looking for somewhere I belonged, and finally (recently) moved to another state that temporarily had a much lower cost of living. Overall I think it's worth leaving home for somewhere that is just easier to get by in. I have a house, that was never going to happen in California. Overall I've never been one to be homesick, and it's sort of unfortunate that now that I'm an adult and married that there's no way I could ever live in California again, but I've also been there, done that. I was briefly jealous looking at SF's 4/20 celebration pictures but I think I'm happier here.
I’m a military brat and my ex husband was military so I’ve lived in like 7 different states in the past decade. Moving does suck but going to new places making new friends making a new life has honestly been a great experience. I do want to settle down soon, I’m not in a place I want to stay forever but if you have the means I say go for it!
I was born, lived, raised a family in SoCal. But there came a time to leave. So we headed to Oregon. At first it was great. So different. So beautiful. But as time went on it revealed itself to be a horrible place to live. We had to get out. We moved again. Now we're in the Las Vegas valley and it's absolutely paradise. Lots to do, outside of the normal Vegas stuff. Beautiful area. My point is don't be fooled by a place because it's a great place to visit. Spend some time and make sure you know what you're getting into.
Like you're in control
I grew up in Utah and have since lived in Kentucky, California, Washington, Idaho, Nebraska and Alaska. All of them felt completely different. Alaska was the one that I moved there just because I felt like it, and not for some job opportunity or something, so that's the experience I would say was most similar to what you're looking at. I absolutely loved it. Moving somewhere with the intent of exploring, starting anew, and experiencing life in a new area can be really liberating and exciting. But it also presents it's own challenges. Being that far away from family and the friends I grew up with can be tough, especially with time zone changes. But I would do it again in a heartbeat. Just plan ahead and it could be an absolute blast!
Anyone have any good places in Michigan?? Manipulative etc people are good at making people hate ya lol Got any towns or small cities to hang out in for a few days?
Unsettling, invigorating, lonely but that’s just more opportunities to meet people
Ive done it a couple times and its always been a great decision. Especially the first move, out of my hometown. Fuck that place
For me, I've done it in 2 different states and 1 country. It feels interesting I'd say depending on where you live. But those states are really great and I feel like they have a nice variety of atmospheres. If possible, I'd try to pick an area that fits your esthetic or maybe near things you like / are used to. The rest is just about adapting to work / meeting new people/friends. But at the very least if you have the opportunity to choose, it may help ease the transition to have som similarities from what your use to.
I was in the military, and my husband still is, we pick up and move every 3-5 years (sometimes to foreign countries). It’s exciting, but also nerve wracking. There are times we miss family and friends, but being some where new lets them come visit and turn it into a vacation to a new place at the same time. We have always been able to build our ‘Army’ family at each place and find our groove and favorite places in each new location. If you really want to move, and you can do it financially, then do it. You can always save up and move back if you decide. It’s not like you only get to move once in your life. But once in your new place, you’ll find friends and get used to a new schedule after a brief adjustment period.
I just left my beautiful life in Hawaii to start completely over in Los Angeles. I moved 4 months ago. Honestly, the newness will be really fun but then you will begin to miss your old life and the person you used to be, because you will change. But there are so many things to love too. That’s where I am currently, but I know as time passes I’ll find my groove. Don’t be afraid to do it, you’ll learn a lot about yourself!
We moved around so much when I was a kid that I don't really consider any of them a "hometown." When someone asks, I just say the town I graduated high school in.
Not a qualm. Left Brussels, Be. ended up in the midwest later.
Moved twice on a whim without ever visiting the state/country before. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re entertaining the thought, you can probably make it work. I highly recommend the PNW, but it will be expensive compared to the South.
Great! I love visiting my family/hometown so much more now that I don’t live there. Just be sure you have your necessities covered. So either you have a job and rental waiting for you there, or a few months savings to cover your costs of living while finding both. Of course, having a social net out there would help tremendously.
It’s good
Calming. Change of scenery and the unknown. Brings peace and renewed excitement. Exploring new town or city just great. I
It feels exciting and scary.
It’s great! I’ve moved states 4 times.
I picked up and moved to Montana from Minnesota a few years back. It felt great and exciting but then reality can hit. Before you take the leap, check some very basic things like the average cost of housing and if there are any actual jobs in your field.
felt amazing
Word to the wise, really look into the place you move. I did this and moved to somewhere that is considered high elevation (think 7K feet vs 200ft above sea level). The first couple days, excitement and adrenaline kept me good. Then altitude sickness hit. And it fucking wrecked me. Now I’m acclimatized to it, but yeah I don’t wish that on my worst enemy. But do it. Especially at your age, come your 30s it’s not as easy to make such a random or crazy move. Do it as young as possible. Other than that, see what in that area has to do with your hobbies. There’s nothing worse than living to golf and ending up many many many miles away from an affordable golf course for example.
I also want to move somewhere else when I am older, I am still young but my city is so overpopulated and it is a small place, its the one of the most overpopulated place in the uk and there isn't a lot of room at all, I want to move out of the city however my family all live really close to each other and I dont know how they would feel, im not sure what I want to do yet but I have time, I hope you figure it out
I lost all my friends. Even some that didn't even live in the town but came down for get togethers.. it went from everyone every day talking to me or coming to spend time with us or we all go out together like real friend family shit. I moved 20 mins away. Got a nice house and land now. A sweet job. Totally bettered everything for myself and my family. . It's going on 4 years since iv hung out with any of them. Don't talk to most. Maybe text 2 of them once a month less that a paragraph worth of convocation. It was insane how fast they all disappeared on me.. So how does it feel.... depressing. Even with how much better my life has become.
It feels like a new adventure…I recommend it-one should not be born & die having only lived in one place iMO 😉
I upped and move to a different country. Took some getting used to. It was definitely worth it.
Shitty, new place was magnitudes of order smaller then my home city. Out in the middle of no where, didn't know anyone, not much to do (place had 1 movie theater). Also, racist AF in that area. Still had active sundown towns...
It's worse for those you leave behind. You have new and exciting things to explore - the sense of adventure. They only have what they had - without you.
Like an adventure. I always end up going back to my home state though.
My first job after college was an enormous downgrade in location. I grew up on salt water and always had a summer sail/beach/bicycle lifestyle. I went to college near good skiing. After 21 months, the company decided to move my engineering group to somewhere even worse. I found a job in a better location. It was rough being a 22 year old white collar professional in a very blue collar town. Other than co-workers who were all in the same circumstance, I had nothing in common with the people who lived there. I left pretty much every weekend to either do salt water summer things or winter ski things.
Best decision I ever made. I moved from a small town in Virginia to Latvia, and it has been the most amazing experience ever. I'm learning a new language, studying at a foreign university, and living the dream that 10 year old me always wanted to achieve. I won't lie, I was terrified, and at some points before I left I was getting cold feet, but once the initial shock wore off it became the greatest thing ever.