Although Metro Detroit’s cost of living is quite affordable by NYC standards, there are cities that have us beat in the overall budget department, places like Buffalo, Kansas City, Louisville, Colorado Springs, Amarillo, and a bunch more. (Some are in Ohio though… and we know you definitely don’t want to move there. ☺)
If it’s possible to make the same — or close to the same — amount of money and have that money go much further in another city, then it might make sense to move if you’re not rooted to the area.
So, are you considering moving somewhere with a lower cost of living than Metro Detroit?
At Mitten Made Properties, we’ve helped many people sell their Michigan homes so they could move to another city. And here are a few things we’ve learned over the years…
Google the Cost of Living
Before moving to a new city to save on living expenses, it’s important to do some research to make sure that it actually has a lower cost of living (rather than relying on word-of-mouth from a friend or family member). A few Google searches will provide a ton of info on cost-of-living comparisons among various cities, states, and regions.
But be cautious: The same economic variety across neighborhoods is true in metropolitan areas throughout the country. Be sure to consider both the cost of a new home (which could vary widely in any given city based on size, neighborhood, and many other factors) and the cost of essentials like groceries, taxes, utilities, and services like childcare. For example, you may be able to buy a home in the City of Detroit for less than one in Oakland County, but you’ll pay more for parking and insurance, and your shopping options may be more limited and more expensive. So make sure your research considers all factors that are relevant to your situation.
Find a New Job First
We highly recommend not moving until you’ve first secured a job. That might put you in a bind to sell your home quickly, but it’s far better to sell your home fast than it is to move somewhere new without a source of income. Plus, some companies may even help cover a portion of your moving expenses as an incentive for you to take a position with them.
Sell to a Professional Homebuyer
If you’re in a hurry to move somewhere with a lower cost of living than Southeast Michigan, then give Mitten Made Properties a call at (248) 883-3340. We can make you a fair cash offer, purchase your home in as-is condition – meaning you won’t need to waste time on repairs, staging, or even cleaning – and close in as little as two weeks!