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We know what you’re thinking when you start thinking about your move. That’s why we’ll explore four of the best places to raise a family when moving cross-country and answer some questions about the relocation process with kids in tow. We have been helping families relocate for over 20 years and have learned a thing or two about great locations.
Family is Everything
Family comes first! When you start building a relocation plan, especially one that crosses the USA, you first think about how this will affect your kids. There is a lot to consider from educational decisions for the little ones to safety, healthcare doctors and hospital proximity, housing, and vibes.
Finding the right place to raise your family is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. Luckily enough, living in the USA gives us lots of opportunities not otherwise available.
Many cities and fun spots across the United States offer the perfect mix of it all for families looking for a fresh start for their kids. We will run through our personal top five best spots to relocate as a family.
1. Austin, Texas
Why Austin?
Austin, the Southerncapital of Texas, has earned a reputation as one of the best cities for families in the country for good reason. This growing city has a perfect mix of outdoor natural fun, cultural events evening opportunities, and economic opportunities.
It is known for its ever-growing job market, particularly in tech and medicine, and is really becoming a fun city.
- Education: Austin has extremely high-ranking public schools for those kiddos. There are also many private school options and access to world-class Universities famous for their research programs.
- Safety and Community: Austin has very low crime rates, making it a great option for families, especially given the news across the US these days. The diverse, family-friendly areas offer great community options. You can meet new friends when you sign your kids up for swimming classes or that new soccer club.
- Quality of Life: Austin’s quality of life is one of the best in the US. With hiking trails galore, parks, and lakes perfect for family activities, even the weather is saying to get out of the house and out in nature. The city has great festivals, live music events, and great bars near the student areas making it a great choice. Many great housing options can be found close to the tech centers at affordable prices making it a great commute friendly option.
Why Families Love It
- Affordable living cost compared to tech-job cities.
- Great job market, for financial stability for the family.
- Family-oriented free community events and activities are plentiful in Austin.
2. Boulder, Colorado
Why Boulder?
Tucked away in the mountains with all that a city has to offer your family, Boulder is considered one of the best places to raise a family, especially for those who love the great outdoors.
At the bottom of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder will give your family an exceptional quality of life if you choose to move out here.
- Education: Boulder is home to some of the top public schools, and Colorado, as a state, puts a lot of its budget into education. The Boulder Valley School District is one of the highest-scoring school districts in the state. Afterschool activities for kids here hit differently with wilderness survival and mountain climbing courses as a part of the school curriculum.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: If your family loves hiking, skiing, and outdoor sports, Boulder is ideal. It offers easy access to trails, parks, and mountain activities, fostering a healthy and active lifestyle.
- Health: Boulder has great healthcare options and is one of the safest cities in Colorado. The city’s locals are focused on wellness, sustainability, and environmental conservation. You can feel the Colorado healthy vibes for miles away with everyone walking to work after their morning yoga class and heading to ski on the weekends. Here you can’t help but to be healthy.
Why Families Love It
- A health-conscious community that values sustainability and encourages you to get outside.
- Great opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and mountain biking year-round.
- Crisp fresh air and great weather!
- Plenty of art galleries, music festivals, and local food vendors and local deliveries.
3. Raleigh, North Carolina
Why Raleigh?
Raleigh offers a great and growing economy, some of the best schools, and a low cost of living with great options to enjoy those extra dollars saved. Thanks to all this, it is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.
- Education: Raleigh has a great public school system, with several top-rated schools in the area. North Carolina State University and the surrounding campus provide families with educational opportunities and great night courses for those who are not students. It keeps the town young so you will have lots of options of babysitters.
- Family-Friendly: Here you will find a lot of green spaces and plenty of parks. The city offers many affordable housing options, which makes it accessible for families on different budgets. The city’s layout promotes walking and biking to work and kindergarten keeping everyone in shape.
- Economic Opportunities: As part of the Research Triangle, a hub for technology, health, and education industries, this means great job opportunities.
Why Families Are Loving It
- Low cost of living compared to other major areas in the U.S. while having a great quality of life.
- Great cafe scene for those who like to work from new spots.
- Suburban feel with the convenience of a big city.
- Lots of affordable government-sponsored children’s activities.
- Strong community-focused culture
4. Portland, Oregon
Why Portland?
Portland is one of the most fun cities in the US. Known for its eco-conscious mindset, quirky protests and more, Portland offers families a unique lifestyle. Moving here means that your family’s schedule will be filled with outdoor adventures, cultural options, and a strong sense of belonging.
- Education: Portland’s public schools focus on the arts, sciences, and STEM. Charter schools, magnet schools, and private schools also offer parents multiple educational options for their input in their kid’s education. You find different options that can’t be found in other states based on nature-learning and special educational theories here at practice.
- Green Living: Portland is a leader in sustainable living, it’s no secret. It’s a bike-friendly city, has many parks, and you won’t meet many families that don’t recycle. Families prioritizing environmental responsibility will find the city a great place to raise their kids so that they too understand the importance of going green.
- Safety: Portland is known for its safe and welcoming areas. You can find a neighborhood where everyone feels a sense of belonging. The city also has great farmers’ markets and live music performances.
Why Families Flock Here
- The city’s focus on green living.
- Many outdoor activities automatically push you towards a healthy lifestyle.
- Excellent parks, playgrounds, hiking trails, and more.
- A progressive, inclusive community that values diversity and accepts everyone for who they are.
Family Wrap Up
Choosing the correct city to raise your family when wanting to move cross-country is a big task. This decision today will have a profound impact on your family’s happiness and well-being for the long run. Whether you’re drawn to Austin’s tech scene and walkability, Boulder’s mountain air, or Raleigh’s affordable cost of living and cafes, plenty of cities across the United States will be perfect for your family.
We gave you the small breakdown of local education, healthcare, safety, and quality of life, with the goal of helping you to find a city that fits your family’s needs. Moving APT is here helping families on the daily to cross the US on their adventure to a new life. Move with us and take the stress out of the equation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I take into consideration when moving cross-country with my kids?
When moving cross-country with your family, take into mind factors like proximity to family and friends to maintain relationships, the school types available, and extracurricular activities for your kids. Don’t let your son miss his chance to grow up as a pro-skier.
Be sure to research the housing costs, crime rates, and healthcare options according to your needs. It’s also important to consider how the move will impact your child’s well-being and how you can support them during the transition. Be sure to make them feel a part of the decision making.
How do I find the best neighborhood for my family?
Go and visit your new future home to get a feel for the right area for you. To be sure you found the best neighborhood for your family, understand crime rates, school ratings, local things available, and housing prices. Talk to locals and read up on online groups for firsthand experiences and ask your questions there.
How can I make the transition easier for my kids?
Moving can be stressful for kids even if they don’t show it outward. It’s important to communicate openly about the change and involve them in the process from day one. Try to make their new home feel familiar by setting up their room first and letting them decorate as they like.
Start creating routines, and encouraging them to participate in activities that will help them meet new friends. Sign them up for the sports they love If possible, ahead of time and talk about the new groups. Visit the new location with them before the move if you can and make it a fun experince.
How can I manage the logistics of moving across the country?
Managing a cross-country move requires an understanding of the complexities and careful planning. Make a moving timeline and budget, and decide whether to hire a professional cross country moving company like Moving APT or if you plan to rent a moving truck DIY.
Organize your home and label boxes as you go. Don’t forget to update your address, transfer utilities, and set up new healthcare providers before the move. Hiring professional movers will ease this load.
What are the best places for family-friendly activities in my new city?
Parenting blogs and Facebook groups are great places to find family-friendly activities happening locally. You can find activities via Facebook’s map feature. Libraries, museums, and local community centers often host events for kids and families, so it’s worth dropping by. Google your town with the sports your kids love to find local options.
