A lot of ex-pats move to the United States for work opportunities and the big city life. However, there are then those in search of a more relaxed and outdoor lifestyle. Some states are filled with stunning natural beauty and there are a plethora of outdoor attractions for people to enjoy, from mountains and trails, to beaches and wildlife.
Another reason why a lot of ex-pats like this destination is because they are able to benefit from a relatively high quality of living. If this is a place that appeals to you, read on to discover some top tips for anyone that is thinking of starting a new life in the United States…
Budgeting for Your New Life
As touched upon, the United States is an attractive destination because of the high standard of living. Nevertheless, don’t make the mistake of thinking this means you do not need to budget prior to your move. You should sit down and work out how much money you are going to need. Always overestimate. It is advisable to take enough money to last you at least 18 months if you are moving there without a job lined up. You will also want to take a look at real estate prices, as they differ from state to state. Some people prefer to rent first and buy once they’re settled into a certain area.
Standard of Living
The standard of living in the United States is high. You can also enjoy activities, such as dining out, without spending a lot of money, as there is something for all budgets.
The Job Market
If you are moving to the United States without a job lined up then you will need to do a considerable amount of research prior to your move. There are some areas in the country where skills are in high demand, which will stand you in excellent stead when it comes to getting a job.
Moreover, the United States currently has a high employment rate, especially in some states. Therefore, there are challenges when it comes to securing a job, which is why you need to determine where in the country your skills are being sought after in order to give yourself the best chance of finding employment quickly.
Climate
You need to choose your location in care with regards to the climate. As the United States is such a large country, the climate differs depending on where you are.
International Health Insurance
When it comes to health care, the United States shines above a lot of other nations in regards to the standard of care. In fact, a lot of private hospitals actually exceed the standard that is offered in European medical centers. Because of this, it is vital that you take out an international medical insurance policy prior to your move. By doing this, you will gain access to the best network of hospitals, facilities, and doctors. Relying on the state system is a risky approach to take. Instead, with a global health insurance plan, you can have ultimate peace of mind that you will receive the best level of care. You will also be financially protected and of course, you can use your policy all over the world, which means you will be covered when you travel to your home country.
Accommodation
It is always advisable to rent when you first move to a new country as opposed to buying a property outright, and the United States is no different. A lot of ex-pats choose to live in the gated communities that are found around the country. They come with a wide range of added extras, such as parking areas, security services, and even shopping opportunities. This makes life a lot easier and makes people feel much more secure. As is the case with all countries, house and rental prices vary depending on what region or city you are planning to relocate to. So it is certainly worth doing your research beforehand and looking on letting websites for properties in the country.
Schools
If you are moving to the United States as a family you will obviously need to enroll your children in schools. Most ex-pats opt for private or international schools. This is something you need to consider from the very beginning of your relocation process. The spaces tend to be limited for these schools and therefore you should apply as early as possible. It is advisable to make sure your children have a place at school before you start looking for accommodation and such like.
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