Starting a new life with your partner is like opening another chapter of your life. You won’t be thinking only about yourself but should also consider your partner and your soon-to-be (growing) family (if you plan to have kids and pets in the future). This is why it is essential to know how to choose the right city for both of you. Learn some tips on choosing where to live and discover the best cities for young couples in the USA.
Best Cities For Young Couples: Factors to consider
1. Town or City Size
Do you consider yourselves city people, or are you and your partner more on the countryside type? If you are either or want to have a little box of both, it is essential to consider your preferred town or city’s size. There are always pros and cons on both sides, so make sure you weigh all options and choose what’s best for the both of you.
2. Cost of Living
This is another essential factor when choosing the best places to live in the US and even in other countries. This should include real estate prices, transportation, food, taxes, and more. The high cost of living means the need for more money to live a comfortable life. Most cities with a higher cost of living offer more job opportunities, but this could also require sacrificing some comfort like smaller living spaces.
3. Job Opportunities
Before choosing a city to live in, it is also critical to consider job prospects and income potential. Are there many options to get a job? What is the job market in the city? What are other ways and means to make a living in the city? Make a thorough research on this factor and learn about the companies and the jobs they offer in your prospective city or town.
4. Real Estate Value
Even if you are not planning to buy a house (yet), it is important to know the current house/apartment/room rental. Ensure that you and your partner understand the city’s real estate market by researching existing and short-term home price trends, how much homes sell, probable long-term value trends, and other essential factors. Understanding and knowing these things will give you an idea if you can afford to live in that particular city or town.
5. Transportation
This can be like your regular route to go to work or school, running on some errands on weekends, or having easy access to an airport in case of personal or business trips. Some cities do not require residents to have their own cars as they have sophisticated public transportation, while other cities require a vehicle to get around the area. Make sure that you know the traffic and transportation situation of the city before moving.
6. Health Care Facilities
While everyone needs to have access to high-quality health care, it is vital for young kids, older people, and people with chronic health conditions. If you or your partner have some medical conditions or are thinking of having kids shortly, you must choose the city with excellent healthcare facilities and services.
7. Safety
There is no place where you can guarantee 100% safety. However, it is essential to know if your preferred city’s crime rate is high or low. This can somehow give you an idea if the place you will be living in is essentially safe for you and your family.
8. Weather
We all have our own preferences when it comes to this factor. Some people despise cold weather, while others cannot seem to survive year-round sunshine. Discuss this with your partner and make sure you both agree and consider each other’s preferences.
9. Education
This is an essential factor, especially if you and your spouse are thinking of having kids. You wouldn’t have your kids commute for hours every day to go to school, right?
10. Proximity to Family and Friends
If family reunions and get-togethers are essential for you, then it is necessary that you consider this factor. Flying or driving across states for the holidays or important events can be a source of stress for both parties, so consider a place that isn’t too far.
5 Best Cities For Young Couples In The US
1. Alexandria, Virginia
This city is only a short metro ride away from Washington DC, which means there are more job opportunities for you and your partner. Alexandria is also among the highest household income in the country, with over $80k.
2. Fort Collins, Colorado
One of the best places to live in the US is Fort Collins, especially for couples who are more on the outdoor type. Fort Collins boasts of its 300 days of sunshine in a year, has a median income of just more than $50k, and has two-bedroom apartments that range from a little over $1000. Plus, this city is also among the best-ranked schools in America.
3. Lewisville, Texas
This city in the northern state is one of the USA’s fastest-growing cities. This charming little town boasts of its high-quality school districts, warm weather, and safety. Lewisville’s median household income is solid $56k, and the median rent for a 2-bedroom house is around $1200.
4. Lincoln, Nebraska
Lincoln’s unemployment rate is remarkably low, which means there are plenty of job opportunities in this city. Lincoln’s median household income is about $50k, and the cost of a two-bedroom house is only around $630 per month.
5. Santa Clara, California
This adorable city located in Silicon Valley is also one of the best cities for young couples. It has incredibly low crime rates, temperate weather (almost) every day for a year, and affordable housing. Median household income is around $89k, and house rental is as low as $900.
>> Take a nice and light travel bag with you. Find the best deals on travel bags.
Conclusion
Moving into a new city and making a fresh start with your partner is one of the most exciting moments and most important for young couples. Enjoy the moment of choosing which among the best cities for young couples is the right one for you.