Choosing Where to Live

Choosing your first home after graduating from college is both exciting and challenging. As you think about different options, remember the four tips below.

1. Make Your Move Forward

Ideally, you will be leaving college with the resources and savings you need to transition smoothly into living independently. At this point in your life, you have the freedom to choose virtually any destination that suits you. However, in spite of this freedom, many graduates stay where they feel most comfortable. In fact, The Atlantic reports that as many as 45 percent of college graduates moved back home after graduation in 2011. Although it may be tempting to establish yourself in a familiar environment, such as your home town or college town, avoid making a choice based solely on comfort and familiarity. Settling for a place simply because it is comfortable may cause you to miss out on bigger and better opportunities available in other locations.

2. Consider Career Progress

One of the most important things to think about as you consider different locations is the progress of your career. You have spent four years working to gain the knowledge and skills you need to follow a certain career path. Now it’s time to give yourself the best chance of success by choosing a location that provides plenty of opportunities for career advancement. The best cities are those with multiple companies in your field, ample opportunities for networking with other professionals and favorable growth policies that encourage the development and expansion of businesses in the area.

3. Think Global, But Stay Local

When you finally graduate from college, you may be tempted to reward yourself with a trip around the world before settling down. However, such a trip will undoubtedly be expensive, draining any savings you may have built and delaying the repayment of the debts you accumulated during college. Instead of spending all of your extra money on excursions to other countries, use the funds to get to know some of the places you might want to move to. You can still enjoy yourself and even bring along some friends, but you will be investing in your future at the same time.

4. Make Decisions That are Built to Last

You are finally ready to move out and start an independent life. The last thing you want to do is return home after a few months because you ran out of money. As important as it is to move to a location that provides ample career opportunities and gives you the freedom you need to reach your goals, it’s just as important to make sure that you have a long-term plan before you go. Living in the big city is expensive, so plan accordingly by looking for a roommate before you sign a rental agreement. Alternatively, you can also save money by opting for a cheaper home just outside of the city.

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