Answered by Jenna Farmer
April 15, 2013
Figuring out where to move can be just as daunting as the actual moving process since there are a number of different reasons why people move. Even if you have a general idea of a location, you'll still have to spend a significant amount of time doing research on the area to decide if it's right for you. If your main concerns are climate and crime, here are a few things to consider:
Pick a Coast
East, West, Gulf - this plays a vital role in climate, as there are many variables in the picture. "warm" weather isn't just measured in degrees. If you choose the East coast, maybe a warmer state like Florida, you'll be looking at a subtropical climate with hot humid summers and a considerable amount of rainfall. States along the Gulf see even more humidity, and cool wet winters. If you pick the West, you'll be faced with a much dryer arid climate with more noticeable season shifts and very little rain.
Research Potential Neighborhoods
Once you have a better idea of a coastal location, you'll need to narrow your search to states, then cities. After that, you can research the crime rates in these cities and put them up against one another and decide based on crime. For example, you may be thinking Miami, Florida is the perfect place for you, but when compared to Gainesville, Florida in overall crime, you may have a change of heart. You can find out crime statistics by calling local police stations and neighborhood watch groups to get more information.
Look at Crime Specifics
A lot of crime data is compiled in a very generalized manner. You'll want to keep an eye out for specific crime statistics - some cities may have high crime percentages due to small robberies on a college campus, for example, not necessarily because there are a high amount of murders happening everyday. Again, you can research specific crimes once you decide on a city.
Once you decide to make the move, get a free quote here at movers.com from moving companies in your area.