After years of walking the same streets and eating at the same restaurants, you've decided it is time for a big change. This means moving to a whole new city, but before you start packing, it's important to make an informed decision. From finding the city with the best job prospects to determining if your new hometown has outstanding school system, here are a few factors to consider before you start packing for your adventure in a brand new city:

Cost of Living

From the price of rent to the cost of a loaf of bread or private school, every city in America has a cost of living. This should be a huge factor when considering where to move, especially if you're already struggling to survive in your current city.

It's important to look for a city that allows you to live comfortably, which is why it's vital to do some research on the top cities you're considering. Take a look at the average cost of rent, gas, groceries, utilities and all the other aspects of where your money will go every month. Luckily, all of these figures are available online, and some of the best sources of information are message boards and reviews of cities.

Look for reviews from real people who live in a city. Is it affordable, or are there hidden costs that will raise the cost of living beyond what you can expect to earn?

The School System

When you become a parent, finding a new house or apartment becomes less about the views and amenities and more about the school district. Finding a city with great schools is probably at the top of your list, which is why you need to do your own homework before moving.

If you have the opportunity, tour the various public and private schools in a city you're interested in calling home. Are the facilities well-maintained and do the teachers seem invested and excited about educating your children?

Once again, public opinion is the best source of information, so don't hesitate to check the reviews of the schools and school districts. Asking parents in a neighborhood you're interested in is another great way to determine if the city and neighborhood are the best choice for your kids.

Another valuable source of information is a real estate agent. Don't be afraid to ask your realtor about the best school system in a particular area because chances are, they will have the low-down on areas your should concentrate your efforts on.

What's the Weather Like?

Did you know that according to the Weather Channel, Minneapolis, MN has the coldest average temperature in the winter, which is around 18 degrees Fahrenheit, while Syracuse, NY has the most average snowfall each year, around 126 inches?

If you're not interested in shoveling snow in the winter, or would rather live in a city that doesn't get too oppressively hot during the summer, it's important to consider what the weather is typically like throughout the country.

In addition to your personal preference, the health and well-being of you and your family should also be a consideration. For example, according to the Mother Nature Network, Chattanooga, TN, Dayton, Ohio and Baton Rouge, LA are amongst the worst major cities for allergy sufferers. If you or a loved one would thrive in a certain type of environment due to health reasons, it's vital to keep their comfort at the top of your "must have" list.

Moving to a brand new city is a major life change, and one that requires a lot of thought and preparation. However, before you can plan your journey in a new city, you have to tie the loose ends of your present life. This begins with planning your move, so don't hesitate to click here for more info or contact a reliable moving company to determine the costs of relocating to the city and home of your dreams!