Ever Relocate for a Job?

[Beantown89]

As a civil engineer, I was recently offered a job in the pacific Northwest and turned the offer down because my spouse didn't want to move. Anyone else moved across the country for a pay raise or better job? I have a feeling that I don't want too many eggs in one basket. And on the other hand, without great risk there is no reward.

 

[JStephen]

I would avoid it if possible, otherwise, go. Major hassle moving, especially trying if you have kids in school or have any social life. Of course, if you've just always wanted to move there, that would be different. And some people just don't like staying in the same area.

When you look at pay in far-off places, also consider cost of living, cost of housing, commute distances, etc.

 

[dtn6770]

Factor into the finances the cost of the divorce if your spouse doesn't want to move and you take the job anyway.

Moving is a colossal pain in the @ss that should be avoided unless you're completely miserable, on all levels, where you're at.

Now if you're offered a dream job at a dream location....buy a lottery ticket too while you're having so much luck.

 

[winpop123]

I have moved for a job before. Pay increase good experience etc.

Depends on your priorirties and your "family" situation.

If you have no kids and company pays all your moving expenses its great. On the flip side if the wife has to be close to Mom then look out... you better stay put.

good luck

 

[kbits]

If you are looking for a job out of state, be careful to visit the place before you make your decision. Imagine moving from Kansas City to Southern California. The local culture, although similar in appearance, may be vastly different from the one you're in. If there were any doubt about the people you would be working with, whether they would make a good teacher, leader or co-worker, then I would look elsewhere. Money should not be the the top priority for leaving your current home. You are moving a long way to live with your new company. If you don't get along well right off, but you move anyway, then you might have just went all in and lost your bet.

 

[BJC]

We had a saying in construction "Furniture is good for two moves or a fire".

 

[TStaples]

I work in Automotive, so I've ended up moving several times, in order to pursue my personal technical interests (cleaner, more efficient, automobiles) while maintaining my career.

I moved from South Carolina to Detroit in 1999 (new position, new company), and from Detroit to Southern CA, in 2003 (transfer.) I'm also currently moving from Orange County, CA, to Ventura County, CA (2 hours away, but still SoCal) as I have taken a new position with a new company. Based on having done this 2.5 (soon to be 3 times now) here are my observations:

1) Make sure the family is 100% gung-ho to do it. If they are not, it can be a miserable experience. The three of us discussed it each time. and not until we were all sure, did we decide to move. That includes any children, they have to be at least part of the discussion. I have turned down very attractive offers to move to western MI, and central IL, based on the family not being 100% in agreement.

2) Spend at least a week, or more, in the new area before making the decision. Don't hang out in a hotel, and just ride around with a realtor. Check out the schools, the shopping, the activities, the whatever you are interested in, and see if you like the day to day atmosphere or culture.

3) Never make a move unles your employer (transfer), or new employer (new position) is paying for it. It is vastly more expensive than you can ever imagine. All of my moves have been employer paid, and the average cross-country moving cost for just the household goods is about $20k-$25k for a typical American household plus cars. (After doing this twice, I'm beginning to think it would be cheaper to just donate most everything replaceable, and buy new once you are settled!)

4) If you own a home, make sure ALL real estate fees are covered. This is a big expense, especially if you are in a market like SoCal, NorCal, NY, London, etc . . . with really genormous housing prices.

5) Make sure incidentals are covered. Cancelling cell phones, utility service, carpet cleanings, temp. storage, yada. yada yada . . .. It all adds up. I have gotten an extra 5-10k thrown in to cover all of the miscellaneous.

There is always risk in making a move, but the rewards can be well worth it, if the situation is right. My wife frequently teases me that I was the inspiration for the phrase, "Life is a journey, not a destination." We are definitely enjoying the journey!

-Tony Staples

http://www.tscombustion.com

 

[FOETS]

Always move for more pay and experience. Tough on the family but they get over it. The company must always pay or I wouldn't.
Moving as far globally as possible away from the mother in law, is a wonderful perk.

Thanks BJC I like your quote "Furniture is good for two moves or a fire". I have some kindling.

I have toyed with the idea of inflatable furniture as it would be easier to pack.

I've moved 10 times through 6 countries and the families still with me - the kids I picked up on route ;-).

As TStaples said "enjoying the journey".

FOETS
Social Drinker with a Golfing Problem

 

[Ashereng]

To answer your question, yes I have.

Are you just looking for a poll, or did you have more specific questions?

"Do not worry about your problems with mathematics, I assure you mine are far greater."
Albert Einstein
Have you read FAQ731-376 to make the best use of Eng-Tips Forums?

 

[prohammy]

I've had (needs must and all that) to relocate to a different country.

When in the Rep of Ireland, work became very scare and I had no alternative but to move to the UK. Financially, its been good for me. Experience wise, also good. But (and this is becoming more of an issue) after being here for the last 3 years, my wife and kids really do want to return home (friends and family being the big draw).


Kevin Hammond

Mechanical Design Engineer
Derbyshire, UK

 

[plasgears]

Moving from NYC to Cincinnati was the best move. Nice town, good amenities, limited other-job opportunities. 10 yrs.

Moving to the Chicago area was good because it is a large job market. I was able to change jobs a few times without moving. 25 yrs.

Moving away from Chicago was a good move as I approached retirement. Worked in automotive for a few years. We used to go to Michigan on vacation. Now I live there. Lansing is a good college town with all the amenities. Value in housing is pleasantly agreeable. Retirement in a large city is a foolishness.

 

[Latexman]

Seven moves in 28 years!

Good luck,
Latexman

 

[BJC]

I got furniture that's traveled more than some people.
(It didn't all break)

 

[tygerdawg]

What a small world. Hiya TStaples, hope you & yours are doing swimmingly.

From KN the robot/PLC/automation/laser welding/assembly automation guy from Lucas/Sagem days.


TygerDawg

 

[sbozy25]

I as well have made a few moves already in my young career. But that is what I needed to do in order to provide the best life for me and my soon to be growing family.

Oregon to Indiana for a pressure vessel design engineer. 2 years.

Indiana to Michigan for an automotive design engineer. 2 years.

Now down to southern Indiana for a Product engineer job with a spring company that has management potential. 6 months and counting.

In the end... you gotta do what you gotta do.

 

[TStaples]

KN,

Your handle makes perfect sense. It is a very small world. The more I travel, the smaller it gets! How are you doing? Still home brewing? I gather you aren't working for brand 'S' in Duncan anymore. Drop me an email. I cannot post one here, but you should be able to figure out my work email from my sig. Big hint; first name only.

-Tony Staples

http://www.tscombustion.com