Ex-pats relocating to the U.S. have a myriad of choices ahead of them as they transition from their home country to America. In some cases, the city they are moving to was determined by their employer. Even so, ex-pats will have new options to explore, including the type of neighborhood they would like to live in and determining what lifestyle is best for themselves and their families.
Among the top U.S. cities that ex-pats are moving to are: Seattle, Wash.; Washington, D.C.; New York, N.Y.; San Diego, Calif.; Dallas, Texas; Austin, Texas; and San Antonio, Texas. New Orleans, La., has also become a popular spot to move, due to its returning music scene and creative industries. But it is not just big cities that offer a great quality of life for ex-pats. For those craving more of a small or mid-sized town atmosphere, Bismarck, N.D., has become another hotspot. The state boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation and many ex-pats are moving there for employment, but staying for the friendly atmosphere. Likewise, more ex-pats are moving to Cape Coral, Fla., thanks to warm weather, the recovering housing market, and job opportunities. Whether you’re an ex-pat or just interested in the transitions that come with a major move, here are the top three living considerations you should pose before signing your next lease.
Commute Time
Since Americans spend the majority of their lives at work, most prefer shorter commute times to the office. When you re-locate to the suburbs of cities such as New York and San Francisco, Calif., you undoubtedly face long commute times. Still, you can often have the best of both worlds. You can live in beautiful apartment communities and neighborhoods with top-rated schools in the outlying areas and quickly commute into the city. In New York, look for apartment communities with subway stops within a short drive from your new community. In San Francisco, you can take the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) train as well as the city’s excellent bus service.
Walkability
Find out if your potential new neighborhood offers the walkability that you and your family need. For example, are there grocery stores and other shopping venues close to your apartment? Can you walk with your child to the park or daycare? Finding an apartment with a great “Walk-Score is a terrific benefit to any ex-pat moving to a large U.S. cities. Living close to the kinds of activities that you enjoy, the shops and restaurants you like, and the scenic areas/outdoor spaces that you need gives you a greater sense of neighborhood. Check out web sites that rate the walkability of U.S. neighborhoods, such as Walkscore.com, which helps you find restaurants, grocery stores and other businesses in the neighborhood you are considering.
Other Lifestyle Factors
Of course, there are a number of other lifestyle factors in new cities that make ex-pats feel at home in their new surroundings. For example, Burlington, Vt., has become a top spot for those relocating to the U.S. after being named one of the top cities to raise a family. It boasts a very low crime rate, a friendly atmosphere, and beautiful scenery. Likewise, Portland, Ore., is one of the fastest-growing spots for ex-pats to settle because of its laid-back atmosphere, healthy lifestyle, stunning scenery and culture. The city is known for its quality bars and restaurants, music and art.
If you are relocating to the U.S., let ApartmentSearch help you find the best apartment for your lifestyle. Simply visit www.apartmentsearch.com and then select your price range, neighborhood, desired amenities and other factors, and let the site create your customized list. Our moving resources such as furniture rental, utilities connections services and packing tips, make the overseas move a smooth transition for you and your family. ApartmentSearch also gives you up to $200 in rewards when you let your new apartment community know that you found them on www.apartmentsearch.com.
