Embarking on the journey of moving out for the first time is an unforgettable experience. The joy of receiving that brand-new house key, the rapid heartbeat on the initial night in your new abode, and perhaps a touch of homesickness as you venture into the world on your own — these moments create memories that linger for a lifetime.
Whether you are commencing your college adventure on the opposite side of the country, relocating to a nearby neighborhood for convenient job access, or taking that significant step in a relationship by moving in with your partner, the first-time move is a pivotal moment requiring thoughtful preparation. At Keep On Moving Company, we are here to guide you through this uncharted territory and enable you to set sail confidently into your new chapter.
Q: At what age should you move out?
A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer, though legal adulthood is a good starting point for maturity reasons. The decision to live alone or with someone else depends on when it feels right for you. Before finalizing your choice, take an introspective look and assess if you possess the qualities necessary for independent living at this stage of your life.
First, Harmonize Your Heart and Mind
Let’s delve into a moment of contemplation. Leaving your family, especially if you share a strong bond, might not be an easy feat, no matter how practical the decision. The support and love you’ve relied on become a security blanket, ever-present in times of need. If you’re bidding farewell to your childhood home, the separation from lifelong friends and neighbors adds an extra layer of difficulty.
If you’re grappling with questions like, “How do I cope with moving out for the first time? Should I do it now?” consider the following:
DO realize that this transition is not a permanent farewell. Once settled, visits with family and friends can be as frequent as you desire. Take advantage of face-to-face phone calls if in-person meetings are challenging. Focus on the excitement of the new adventure, remembering that feelings of sadness are transient. DON’T linger in the past. While emotions will run high initially, fixating on heavy sentiments can impact your mental well-being. Adopt the right mindset about your first move, keeping a forward-thinking attitude. Cherish memories of your old home while envisioning the countless positive moments awaiting you in your new space.
For those without the strongest family ties, departing from your parents’ house might have been a long-awaited step. Here’s advice for moving out for the first time:
DO stay resilient, knowing that you will build a support system through friendships and connections in your school or workplace. DON’T leave in anger or resentment. Taking control of when you visit family or friends allows you to establish boundaries for your peace and happiness. Depart with warm hugs and sincere goodbyes until the next reunion.
Get Practical With Money
Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty. Moving comes with costs, and being financially prepared is crucial. From managing your own expenses like internet and phone bills to exploring deals on car insurance, financial readiness is key.
Wondering, “How much money should I have to move out for the first time?” A common rule of thumb suggests your income should be around three times your rent or mortgage. For instance, if your accommodation costs $1,000 per month, aim for an income of $3,000 monthly.
If your family is willing to offer financial support initially, accept it graciously and responsibly. College scholarships, grants, or student loans can also contribute to covering moving costs. For those working, meticulous budgeting is essential. Moving to a different part of the country adds extra expenses, so plan accordingly. Consider the following:
DO create a comprehensive “Moving Out for the First Time Budget.” Sum up all income sources and calculate non-negotiable expenses such as rent, car/student loans, utilities, etc. Include annual expenses divided by 12 for a monthly amount. Deduct the total expenses from your income to determine your budget for gas, groceries, dining out, and entertainment. Additionally, allocate a set reserve for gifts, rainy-day funds, or other savings. Insider Tip: Moving expenses accumulate, from cardboard boxes to hiring movers. Establish a “moving day reserve” to avoid post-move financial shocks. Utilize Keep On Moving Company services for a smooth start. Don’t forget the initial deposit or down payment for renting or owning a dorm, apartment, or house.
DON’T panic if the numbers don’t align with your initial expectations. Reassess your budget and consider options like sharing your living space with a roommate or opting for a smaller accommodation in a less-popular area. Living near campus can also save money on transportation costs.
Q: How do you move the first time?
A: Follow our planning, checklists, and essentials guide for a successful first-time move. If complications arise, take a moment to relax—things will fall into place.
Find the Perfect Location
Whether you’re moving to a college dorm, an apartment, or with friends, certain factors must be considered when finding your new home.
DO prioritize location. If you’re a student, choose a residence close to campus. For those entering the workforce, focus on apartments or houses near your new job. Consider the proximity of grocery stores and gas stations when searching for a new place to save time and transportation costs.
For those exploring new cities, check the cost of living. Here’s a snapshot for a few top cities in 2023, starting with Charlotte, NC, and assuming a $50,000 salary:
- Sarasota, FL: To maintain the same standard of living, you’d need to make $51,605. Keep in mind that the median home cost in Sarasota is nearly 16 percent higher than in Charlotte.
- Phoenix, AZ: Requiring a salary of $54,514, moving to Phoenix comes with higher costs in most metrics.
- Wilmington, NC: Moving from Charlotte to Wilmington, the No. 1 destination in 2023, allows a lower salary of $48,935 to maintain a similar standard of living. Healthcare costs are notably higher in Wilmington, but other expenses remain equal or less than in Charlotte.
DON’T be swayed by amenities that don’t fit your budget. Whether it’s a new apartment complex with a luxurious pool or a trendy townhome in the downtown hotspot, keeping a tight budget during your first solo move is prudent. Premium options can wait until you acclimate to your new lifestyle.
DO gather essentials for your new home. To save money, source basics like furniture and kitchen items from family, friends, or roommates. Explore thrift stores and online marketplaces for cost-effective options.
Gather Your New Home Basics
For the Kitchen
- Dinnerware
- Mugs
- Glassware
- Silverware
- Cooking utensils
- Pots
- Pans
- Cutting boards
- Knives
- Mixing bowls
- Pot holders
- Dish towels
- Can opener
- Blender
- Toaster
- Coffeemaker
- Trash can
For the Bedroom
- Mattress
- Box spring
- Bed frame
- Pillows
- Sheets
- Alarm clock
- Laundry hamper
- Trash can
- Curtains
- Dresser
For the Bathroom
- Toilet paper/holder
- Tissues
- Shower curtain/rod
- Shower/hand soap
- Haircare
- Towels
- Toiletries
- Plunger
- Toilet scrubber
For the Living Room
- Couch/chairs
- Coffee table
- Curtains
- Shelving/TV stand
- Television
- Cable box/streaming equipment
- Internet modem/router
Cleaning Supplies
- Vacuum
- Broom/mop
- Dustpan
- Trash bags
- Cleaning solution(s)
- Laundry detergent
- Multipurpose wipes
- Sponges
- Gloves
- Bleach
Toolbox/Miscellaneous
- Nails
- Hooks
- Hammer
- Screwdrivers
- Electric drill
- Tape measurer
- Leveler
- Socket wrench
- Pliers
- Flashlight
- Candles
- Matches
- Lamp
- Fan
- Hangers
- Iron/ironing board
- Batteries
- Extension cords
Pro Tip: Accidents can happen, so add a first-aid kit to your shopping list, including bandages, antiseptic ointment, ice pack, thermometer, cold medicine, ibuprofen, tweezers, and hydrogen peroxide. Some pharmacies offer ready-to-go kits; stash one in your bathroom cabinet.
A father and son embrace as they prepare for the son to move out on his own.
There’s Only One Thing Left To Do: Get Moving!
Before Moving Day
DO inquire if your school has affiliations with a moving company or offers student discounts. For work-related moves, check if your employer provides relocation assistance, especially for long-distance moves where the cost of moving out of state can be challenging. DON’T handle everything alone if possible. Enlist help for packing and moving, saving time and energy for unpacking and organizing. Consider professional services like Keep On Moving Company for a seamless experience.
Q: Is it hard to move out for the first time?
A: Experiences vary, but with proper planning and preparation, the transition becomes more manageable. Trust in your ability to navigate this new adventure.
On Moving Day
DO accept help graciously and express gratitude to your helpers. Consider a gesture like providing pizza or a meal to show appreciation. DON’T expect everything to fall perfectly into place on the first day. Moving is a process that takes time, patience, and effort.
Q: What are the steps to moving out for the first time?
A: Follow an abbreviated checklist, including budgeting, location selection, researching moving companies, purchasing basics, and diving into the move with determination.
Leaving home for the first time may seem daunting, but with support and planning, you’re well-equipped for this new adventure! For more moving tips, explore the Keep On Moving Company Blog.
