To move or not to move, that is the question. Many times we get opportunities in our lives to make big changes. If a move to Palm Harbor is in the books, read on for the pros, cons, and everything in between!
Making the call
Making that final call to know you’ll be moving out of state and to a new town is not a simple decision. Sometimes you need a little push to make the call. Here are my top tips on things to consider:
1. If you can, go for a long visit trial of Palm Harbor
Visit First! If possible, visit Palm Harbor and spend some time there in northern Florida to get a feel for the area. Every single area in Florida has it’s own vibes so make sure you connect with Palm Harbor’s feel.
Try to stay in a residential area rather than a hotel to get a more realistic experience of everyday living here and try out all the local spots. If you are feeling extra adventurous then try out meeting locals on Couchsurfing.
Consider renting for a few months before committing to buying a home or a long term rental period. This trial period can help you get a true sense of the area and decide if it meets your expectations. If you have the time to spare I would say this is the most important tip.
2. Career Thoughts
Research the job market in Palm Harbor and the surrounding areas. Are there enough opportunities in your field? Is the economic environment the right type enough to support your career growth? If you are working remotely then consider finding other hubs of similar people so you won’t feel alone.
Cost of Living vs. Salary is important to consider. Analyze how your potential earnings stand against the cost of living in Florida. Palm Harbor is different than Miami when it comes to earnings versus the cost of eggs in a supermarket. Consider the small everyday things.
A higher salary might not be beneficial if the cost of living consumes a significant portion of your income. It depends on the lifestyle that is important to you as to if Palm Harbor is a good fit.
3. Personal Goals and Lifestyle Thoughts
Climate changes affect your mood. Reflect on whether the climate and geographical features of Palm Harbor align with your lifestyle preferences. For example, someone who loves outdoor activities will find Palm Harbor’s pristine beaches a natural charm.
Also the proximity to the state border allows for fun road trips to Georgia!
Cultural fit is key to staying put. Consider if the cultural environment suits your lifestyle. This includes social factors, entertainment options, arts and cultural community, and general lifestyle.
When I think about places to move I consider my proximity to beaches I love as well as social groups for circus jams and painting activities. Find your niche and run with it.
If you have certain goals such as climbing level, make sure you have the right gym near you. It could be learning a new language that requires a language school nearby, or even just simple fitness goals that require a running group in your area.
Consider all factors while visiting Palm Harbor. I’ve found that you can find most niche things.
4. Consider Education and Doctors
Quality of education is always a big thing to consider if you have children. The quality of schools in FL is seen as some of the best in the country. Research school districts, higher education options, and educational opportunities.
Overall you should know that Palm Harbor is known for its highly-rated public schools, making it an attractive place for families. The educational system here is one of the top draws for new residents, providing quality education.
Healthcare Services: Look into the healthcare facilities and services available in your exact area. Consider both the quality of care and the accessibility of medical services. If you are into extreme sports like I am, this is key.
5. Analyze the financial aspects
Housing Market: Investigate the housing market, including rent and home prices. Ensure it’s within your budget and meets your standards for living conditions. Make sure your work salary covers not only costs but that you are really able to save.
Moving Costs: Get an estimate of the moving costs, which can vary significantly when moving out of state. These should include packing, transporting belongings, and any interim accommodations needed during the move. Moving APT comes into the picture at this stage with our moving website offering quotes from trusted vendors that work in the Palm Harbor area.
The best things about Palm Harbor
Yes, I am biased. Here are my favorite things about Palm Harbor, Florida:
- The historic downtown area of Palm Harbor, Old Palm Harbor, as it is known locally has many cute little boutiques, antique shops, and local dining options to fit any budget. There is a vibe of laid-back, old-Florida atmosphere that residents and visitors alike tend to love and return to.
- I am a sucker for cute local events. Every year I go with my family to the Palm Harbor Citrus Festival, which celebrates the area’s rich history in citrus farming with carnival rides, food vendors, and live music. I find it super fun and local.
- Palm Harbor is right near some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches. You have Honeymoon Island State Park and Caladesi Island State Park. These spots are perfect for swimming, tanning, fishing, and just chilling. As well you have the main local beaches of Palm Harbor when you don’t want to hop in the car for a drive.
- Palm Harbor offers a more laid back, beachy and relaxed pace of life, but it is also conveniently located near big cities like Tampa and St. Petersburg. This proximity allows you easy access to major airports, professional sports venues, cultural offerings, and corporate job offers. If you don’t mind the commute you can find a great quality of life in Palm Harbor.
- Don’t even get me started on that 24-7 sunshine. It’s not called the sunshine state for nothing. If you are feeling sad and lonely this is the spot to up your serotonin.
- I personally love the vibrant community atmosphere in Palm Harbor. I feel like any age group can find their crew here with enough desire.
Closing things up
When you think about moving to Palm Harbor there are many factors to consider, but overall it will be your gut feeling that will help you make the call. If you want a beachy, sunny vibe for your everyday life, Palm Harbor is a good option. With its proximity to major city hubs, you can find everything you need within a short drive while still living that beachy dream. Make the move to Palm Harbor with Moving APT and get that pina colada ready!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main factors to consider when thinking about moving regions?
This is more of a matter of preference. Schooling quality, the cost of living versus the salaries in the area, the overall vibe of the new location, entertainment options that fit your hobbies, and job options are the main factors I would consider when looking into a new location.
What is your favorite tip for someone new at moving that loves organization?
Color code pack! You can buy plastic storage bins in all the different colors, and use a certain color for each room. For example all bathrooms can be packed up in pink bins. This saves you the need to label! Color coding will help you unpack with ease and with no need to flip a cardboard box on all sides looking for the lost label.
How can I pack up my entire house before my move?
Plan ahead, ensure to have a proper checklist of your items and enough packing materials on hand. Proper planning saves the stress of packing up at the last minute and having items get lost. Don’t think it’s possible to pack up an entire home in one day unless you are a professional moving service.
How can I waste less plastic when moving and be more sustainable?
Moving really does tend to require lots of tape, cartons, and bubble wrap, but this doesn’t have to be an environmental nightmare. Where you can, replace bubble wrap with towels and sheets. Replace tape with ties (but not too many), and see how you can repurpose all these items later on. Do your best without risking the fragile items.
How can I best know the number of cardboard boxes I will need to prepare for my move?
Start with your personalized inventory list to understand the items you have and their quality stage. From there you should be able to estimate how many drawers of smaller items and similar things will require their own boxes.
Your move is able to bring you a first load of movers and you can always request more later or buy them on your own at your local hardware store. As a rule of thumb, always take 15-20 more than you think so that you don’t end up over stuffing your boxes.
