Low crime rates, free education, access to health services, and job security; these and many more are the things that you should be looking for in a neighborhood. The community where you will raise your kids is going to have an impact on their development and well-being.
Sure, you can raise them in a tough place and they will come out tough. But if you have the option, why not in some other place that’s safer and affordable?
Affordability
When reading through real estate investment tips, the first thing you will come across is the affordability of the neighborhood. It’s not just about your ability to afford a house there, but a whole host of other necessities such as grocery, school, extracurricular activities, utilities, and taxes. You cannot live paycheck to paycheck in Williamsburg, for example. You need to be able to save for your kids’ future, too.
Taxes
Normally, you have to pay state and local taxes. There are taxes on the goods you consume. You also have to pay individual income taxes. It is no small joke to deal with taxes. Fortunately, other areas in the country do not require their residents to pay taxes. You may want to look into states like Alaska, Delaware, Oregon, Montana, Florida, New Hampshire, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.
Employment
Spend some time researching the job market in the city or state that you are eyeing. Sure, it might have nice public schools and a health system, but do you have a job to do there? And if you do, how much are they going to pay you? Is it enough to provide for your family? Income levels vary state by state, so you should check this before picking a place to live.
Safety
There is no perfect neighborhood, but you can choose communities with lesser crime rates. You can stop by the local police station and ask for a copy of its crime reports. You can also discuss with them the general safety of the neighborhood. Are kids safe to roam around the town? Can they play outdoors? You should also look at the developments happening in the neighborhood. Is there gentrification on the horizon? Are people from outside the state moving into the neighborhood?
Education
This should be on top of your priorities, too. Some people choose to live far away from their hometowns because the educational system is better in the Midwest, for example. You can research the public school system in your shortlist of neighborhoods. Make sure the school is competitive enough that it will provide plenty of opportunities for your kids.
Climate
The climate plays a huge role in the activities your kids are going to want to do. In California and New Mexico, they’ll be more inclined to try water sports. In New England and Colorado, they’ll have plenty of options to ski and other winter activities. These activities are going to impact your child’s development and mental health, so be sure to choose wisely.
Choosing a place to live is always exciting, but it can be overwhelming, too. There are so many options. Decide as a family. Give everyone a voice and make sure that you all agree once you decide on the place to live.
