There are lots of reasons to leave home and try out a new city.

The enchantment of a vibrant life in a bustling new place, fresh new career opportunities, and alluring climates can draw people in.

But between remote work making lots of Americans more mobile and surging economic instability, the cost of living is on the rise everywhere. That said, some places have a bigger and bolder price tag than the rest. 

And if you or someone you know is feeling adventurous about moving to a new place, learning about the most expensive places to live in the US is a good place to start your research.

This helpful guide covers the most expensive cities and the states with the highest cost of living in 2026.

We’ll cover what to consider when moving and the hidden costs some adventurous movers may not expect. We’ll also offer some tips on how to manage the high costs of living in expensive places. 

And last but not least, we’ll reveal how our signature SelfStorage.com search tool can help you shave some money off of your moving costs.

Most Expensive States: Which States Have the Highest Cost of Living?

There are lots of factors that come into play when it comes to boosting or lowering the cost of living, and city life is certainly one of them. But factors like home prices and the cost of groceries, medical care, transportation, utilities, and other essential goods and services can sometimes boost the cost of living in the whole state. Before we get into the most expensive cities in the United States, let’s take a look at the states with the highest cost of living.

1. Hawaii

• Cost of Living Index: 193.3
• Housing: 315
• Utilities: 164.
• Groceries: 152.9
• Transportation: 133.7
• Health: 115.3

It’s no secret that the paradise of Hawaii is a popular destination. But supply and demand aren’t the only reasons why Hawaii tops the list of the most expensive places to live in the US.

For starters, the median home price in Hawaii flies above our heads at $$816,383, making Hawaii the state with the highest home costs. In fact, housing costs three times the national average (315 on the index), and only 29% of residents can afford to buy a home in the state, one of the lowest levels in the country.

The indigenous community of Hawaii has long since figured out how to live in harmony with the natural ecosystem of the island. But the modern American is accustomed to a lifestyle full of amenities, comforts, goods, and services that have to be shipped to the islands.

And that means groceries cost 50% more than the national average (152.9 on the index), while transportation (133.7), utilities (164.2), and miscellaneous expenses (126.7) are all significantly higher than on the mainland.

That said, property taxes in Hawaii are relatively low, and median household income is higher than the national average—but not double. So in the end, the towering costs of living stretch your income regardless.

2. New York

• Cost of Living Index: 148.2
• Housing: 230.1
• Utilities: 99.8
• Groceries: 118.4
• Transportation: 108.7
• Health: 102.5

The Big Apple didn’t earn its bold reputation as a global hub of finance, culture, and commerce without securing an even bloder a price tag. And that price tag makes New York one of the most expensive places to live in the US.

The sheer population density in the New York metropolitan area drives housing costs to hard-to-afford levels, with housing costs about 1.5 times the national average. In New York City itself, a two-bedroom apartment will set you back around $5,874 a month on average. Statewide, the typical single-family home costs $$498,383. Even at that price, only a quarter of residents can afford to buy. New York may have the seventh-lowest housing affordability rate in the country on paper, but it also boasts the lowest rate of homeownership in the entire nation.

New York’s individual income tax rates sit on the higher side, so even families with high incomes on paper find themselves stretched thin. The median income for a family of four is $111,054 per year.  But the living wage for a family of four is $110,255–and plenty of families fall short. Property taxes average $6,325 a year, adding yet another burden to an already high cost of living.

3. California

• Cost of Living Index: 142.2
• Housing: 201.9
• Utilities: 124.3
• Groceries: 113.7
• Transportation: 131.7
• Health: 110.7

The Pacific coast tends to top the list of desirable places to live, so it’s no surprise that the Golden State of California is the second most expensive state to call home.

The dream of owning a home on the sunny coast of California isn’t unique. California’s real estate market is hard to break into. California’s median home value floats around $755,330.

And the annual housing costs aren’t the only driving force behind Cali’s high cost of living. The higher-than-average cost of groceries and transportation will help you spend your family’s median household income, even if the average income is on the higher end of the national spectrum.

The housing costs and the general cost of living, coupled with the dense competition and high entry barriers, make California an expensive state.

4. Massachusetts

• Cost of Living Index: 135
• Housing: 177.6
• Utilities: 111.1
• Groceries: 119.3
• Transportation: 111.3
• Health: 118.8

High grocery, medical, and housing costs put Massachusetts in the number 3 slot of the most expensive states. Mass has a median home value of $636,412, and that’s before you consider property taxes that are almost double the national average. 

Medical care expenses are almost 15% higher than the national average, with health insurance sitting at 18% more expensive. Groceries cost 19% higher in Massachusetts. 

The median household income is robust in Massachusetts, with the average family of four earning $140,309. And the medical care and school systems are some of the best in the country. But quality of life comes at a price. 

5. Alaska

• Cost of Living Index: 124.9
• Housing: 120.0
• Utilities: 157.0
• Groceries: 127.0
• Transportation: 117.0
• Health: 145.0

Rugged beauty and expansive wilderness make Alaska a one-of-a-kind place to visit. And Alaskan residents enjoy the financial advantage of no state income tax. But the advantage, unfortunately, doesn’t outweigh the cost-boosting logistical challenges Alaskans face.

The massive size of Alaska’s territory and its dispersed population make shipping consumer goods an expensive task. And since much of Alaska’s terrain isn’t farmland, Alaskans rely on food that’s shipped in from other places. That makes groceries cost nearly a third more than the national average. 

The transportation, connectivity, and transfer challenges make utility costs higher than average, and medical care expenses run Alaskans over 50% more than what the rest of the country pays.

Alaska is an interesting case–the median household income in Alaska is higher than the national average. And the median home value in Alaska is $377,398, which is lower than most places on our list. But the overblown cost of everyday necessities makes Alaska an expensive place to call home.

Now we understand the most expensive cities to live in. That said, when we’re figuring out the states with the highest costs of living, we’re looking at averages across the entire state. 

Many of the averages are skyrocketed by the cost of living in the sites within the state. So if you’re planning to move long-distance across state lines, you’ll need to look up the cost of living in the actual city or town you’re considering, as it may vary greatly from the state average. On that note, let’s focus on the most expensive U.S. cities.

The Most Expensive US Cities Explained

Maybe you’re looking for a lavish new life among other aristocrats. Or maybe you’re aiming to steer clear of pricy places to live. Either way, one of the primary things to consider when vetting a new place to live from any of the popular Best Places rankings is the cost of living. 

But how do they determine which US cities are the most expensive in the first place?

Organizations like the U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Department of Labor, and U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, and others collect and provide info on

• Median Monthly Rent 
• Median Gross Rent 
• Median Home Prices and Home Values 
• Median Household Income and Median Income
• Unemployment Rate, Average Commute 
• Cost of Living Index 
• Desirability Index
• Job Market Index
• Value Index
• Quality of Life Index

By cross-referencing some of these metrics, publications can get a solid idea of where the most expensive places to live in the US are for a given year. Our 10 most expensive US cities are ranked based on how much more expensive each city is compared to the national average, taking into account housing, groceries, transportation, utilities, healthcare, and other everyday expenses.

The data comes from C2ER’s Cost of Living Index, which measures prices across 265 urban areas nationwide. A city that’s 50% above the U.S. average means residents pay $1.50 for every $1.00 the typical American spends.

Here are the cities where your dollar stretches the least:

1. Manhattan, New York – 132% above U.S. average

Life in the Big Apple’s most famous borough costs 132%  what most Americans pay just to get by. The average apartment rents for $5,735 a month—the highest in the nation—while the average home price hits $2.95 million. It’s no wonder that space is in high demand, since Manhattan hosts nearly 70,521 residents per square mile.

Healthcare costs run 50% above average, a movie ticket costs $22.47 (73% more than average), and transportation is 20.9% more expensive. The median household income of $101,078 isn’t too shabby. But in a city where everything costs 132% more, even six figures can feel tight.

2. Honolulu, Hawaii – 82.1% above U.S. average

As I mentioned earlier, almost everything in Hawaii has to arrive by boat or plane. Utilities are the most expensive in the US–94.4% above the mainland average. Grocery costs are high–eggs are 37% pricier, and bananas cost 102% more.

The median household income of $84,907 barely keeps up with the $1.71 million median home sale prices.

3. San Jose, California – 81.1% above U.S. average

At the heart of Silicon Valley, housing costs run 232% above the national average, with homes hitting $1,393,400. Utilities run 43.1% higher, and even your daily cup of coffee costs 18% more than the rest of us pay.

The median household income of $153,202 is nearly twice the national average, probably thanks to Silicon Valley. And you’ll need that big tech money if you’re gonna pay that extra 81% everywhere you go.

4. Orange County, California – 61.7% above U.S. average

Orange County housing costs run 173.3% above the national average, with homes averaging nearly $1.645 million. In Newport Beach alone, median values soar past $2 million. Renters pay $3,056 monthly for an average-sized rental. That’s almost double the national average.

The median household income of $110,042 provides sme cushion, and healthcare actually runs 4.1% below the national average. But paying 39.1% higher transportation costs, 39.1% and 25.2% more for utilities, keeps Orange County, California, on the list of the most expensive US cities.

5. San Francisco, California – 60.1% above U.S. average

San Francisco‘s tech-driven growth has also driven up the city’s cost of living, where demand has already outpaced supply. The average home costs $1.35 million, while renters pay $3,739 a month.

Groceries, utilities, healthcare, and transportation all cost 13.7% to 50% more than average. The median household income of $138,562 is among the nation’s highest. But when everything costs double, even tech salaries get stretched thin.

6. Brooklyn, New York – 59.4% above U.S. average

I remember when Brooklyn was New York’s cool but affordable alternative to Manhattan. These days, Brooklyn’s housing costs are almost four times the national average. The median home value hits $880,300, while on the other side of the affordability gap, the median household income of $76,912 falls below the national average.

Utilities cost 19.1% more than average, and transportation just 13.4% above the typical rates. But medical care costs run 28.8% higher.

7. Queens, New York – 50.6% above U.S. average

Queens is considered the world’s most ethnically diverse urban area, with 138 languages spoken within its boundaries.

But housing prices 152.2% above the national average. Homes sell for nearly $1.36 million, and rent costs $3,937 a month. That means homeowners and renters are paying more than twice what most Americans pay, even though the median household income is only $325 above the national average at $81,929.

8. Los Angeles, California – 49.4% above U.S. average

Los Angeles may be the home of Hollywood, but the median household income is only $79,701–less than the national average, to be sure. But the demand is still despite the lower-than-average income. So housing costs run 131.5% above average, with homes at nearly $1.35 million and rent averaging $3,011.

L.A.’s notorious traffic pushes transportation costs 28% above average. And the unemployment rate of 6.4% rests well above the national rate of 4.8%.

9. San Diego, California – 46.1% above U.S. average

The ideal weather and hot sand beaches come at a price. San Diego housing prices average $1.16 million—114% above the national average.

San Diego residents do enjoy a median household income of $105,780. But housing costs more than erase that advantage. Even renters pay $3,132 a month–just about double the national average.

10. Boston, Massachusetts – 44.8% above U.S. average

Housing costs run 114.3% above average in Boston, with apartments renting for $4,157 a month. And Bostonians looking to buy a home can expect to pay around $1,060,406 on average.

Utilities run 44.8% above average, and healthcare costs 34.4% more. The median household income of $96,931 helps, but Massachusetts ranks among the least tax-friendly states for both working families and retirees.

The Hidden Costs of Luxury Living

The hidden costs of moving to a luxurious place include more than the obvious costs of living.  Housing is hard to come by, and the high-paying job markets are competitive. You’ll have to adjust to smaller living spaces and lifestyle adjustments, all while dealing with the sunshine tax and tourists attracted to the desirability of your area.

• Housing Shortage: In luxury markets, there is often a housing shortage, which lowers the chance of affordable housing by driving up demand.
• Geographic Constraints: Areas with geographic limitations, such as coastal cities or regions surrounded by mountains, have restricted space available for housing development. Landscape limitations often lead to elevated property values and a lack of options.
• High-Paying Job Markets: Luxury living areas often boast high-paying job markets, which boost the median income. This can definitely be a pro, but it also attracts top-tier professionals seeking to capitalize on career opportunities. That makes the job market competitive, leaving many of the residents stuck with long commutes to out-of-town jobs that don’t pay as well.
• Desirability: Locations viewed as prestigious or offering a high quality of life tend to have higher median home sale prices. Features like high-scale schools, geographical and cultural attractions, and recreational amenities attract potential residents, visitors, and tourists alike.
• Taxes: High property taxes in luxurious areas and temperate climates, often called the “sunshine tax,” increase the cost of buying a home, lowering the rate of homeownership. And more renters mean a higher rent price.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Life in luxury housing markets often means reducing your spending in other areas. That can mean spending less on non-essential items, downsizing your home, or moving in with family members.
• Smaller Living Spaces: Due to the elevated cost of housing, residents in expensive areas often have to settle for smaller apartments or condos. This can lead to reduced living space and a lack of storage. You can navigate this by leading a more minimalist lifestyle or using self-storage to ease your transition.
• Transportation Costs: Public transportation options are often limited in places where people have money and prefer their private vehicles. This can lead to increased transportation expenses, like fuel, insurance, and maintenance costs.
• Economic Inequality: The high costs of living in luxury areas can accelerate the gap in economic inequality. Wealth inequality can create a divide between different socioeconomic groups within the same community, which can cause some drama and discomfort, to say the least.

Managing High Costs Of Living in the Most Expensive Places To Live

Maybe you already live in one of the most expensive places in the US. Or maybe you’re moving there soon. Either way, there are some budget-friendly storage tips you can try to manage the high costs of living.

The obvious solution is moving into a smaller house. But you don’t want to give away your sentimental and valuable belongings.Self-storage can support downsizing by helping you store the possessions you may not use on a regular basis.

You can take advantage of multifunctional furniture like sofa beds, expandable dining tables, or wall-mounted desks that save space, putting the rest of your furniture in storage.

You can store seasonal items such as winter coats, snow gear, or summer sports equipment in storage units to free up space in your home.

Storage also gives you a place to keep seasonal gear such as skis, rock climbing, mountain biking, and hunting gear. For example, you can keep your camping and hiking gear at home and your snowboard in storage for the summer.

When winter rolls around, swap your camping gear for your snowboard gear, and you only need to store one pile of gear at home at a time without giving up any of your hobbies.

You can use budgeting apps to keep a detailed record of your expenses and identify areas where you can cut back. Minimalism fosters more than an open, inviting living environment; simple living also frees up mental space in a noticeable way.

How SelfStorage.com Can Help Lower the Highest Cost of Living

By now, you should have a pretty good idea of the most expensive places to live in the US, both in terms of the most expensive US cities and the most expensive states. We’ve seen that, while these areas are costly, people choose them for career opportunities, lifestyle, geography, climate, or other compelling reasons.

We’ve also explained a few of the hidden costs of luxury living and how to mitigate the high costs of living when you’re living in an expensive place.

Regardless of where you move to, renting self-storage can help you ease the transition, moving into a small and affordable living space while you try out the new city. You can put your things in temporary storage while you travel freely for a bit, or while you’re between houses.

Or you can downsize your living space by putting things you don’t use every day in self storage while you decide what to keep and what to sell. 

Of course, depending on what you’re storing, you may need amenities like climate control or enhanced security features. You’ll also want to make sure you’re renting the appropriate storage unit size so you’re not wasting money or cramming things into tight spaces.

And last but not least, we suggest renting a self-storage unit in a convenient location. But how do you find a self storage facijltity in your location of choice that has the exact size and amenities you need?

Don’t fret–SelfStorage.com is here to help. 

Simply use our storage unit guide to figure out the sizes and amenities you need.

Then, enter your zip code into our signature SelfStorage.com unit locator tool to find the storage unit size and amenities you decided you need in the previous step. 

Our tool uses amenity filters you set to isolate the storage units in your zip code that have precisely what you need. You can contact the storage facility through our site and book your storage unit today. When you find the ideal storage unit near you, we’ll reserve it for you for free in minutes. No commitment and no credit card required.

Moving abroad has always been a fantasy for the noble few who are open-minded and adventurous enough to wander outside their own borders.

And with global trade, communication, and education climates becoming more interconnected and the political situation in multiple countries growing more complicated, lots of people have made an international move their goal.

Maybe Central or South America has what you’re looking for in terms of cost of living. Or maybe there’s a career you aim to pursue in Asia, or a school in Europe, or ancestral roots in Africa that you feel more attuned to.

Regardless of your reasons, the reality of moving overseas is daunting, and we have more than just the typical packing and storage anxieties. There’s also the financial and logistical complexities you’ll have to prepare for.

Navigating the high international shipping costs, emotional attachment, and future uncertainty can feel like a balancing act. And leaving home already feels like giving up your familiar safety net, regardless of how promising the situation is on the other side of the move.  

That’s where using a comprehensive moving abroad checklist might be able to offer you some peace of mind, both as a decision framework and as a preparation tool.

Our moving abroad checklist is more than just a generic packing list. We’ll cover international shipping costs, preparation guidelines, and International moving tips.

We’ll also reveal how our signature SelfStorage search tool can help you save some money on transporting collectibles, antiques, and heirlooms out of the country.

Understanding International Shipping Costs:

One of the first pieces of information to examine when you’re considering moving abroad is the international shipping costs. Of course, these will vary based on method. The primary three international shipping methods used for international moves are full container, shared container, and air freight:

• Full Container Load (FCL): If you’re moving a full, multi-bedroom household, you may need a full container all by yourself. An FCL gives you a 40-foot container for a base rate of $2,300-$3,500, but remember to budget for the full package. A typical move from Los Angeles to Ho Chi Minh City runs about $4,395 total, including all those extra fees like origin charges, destination handling, and documentation. With an FCL, you pay one flat fee whether your container is packed to the brim or half-full, so there’s no penalty for bringing extra belongings.
• FCL Is Ideal For: Families moving entire multi-bedroom households with children.
• Less Than Container Load (LCL):  If you’re only moving some of your stuff, or if you don’t own much, you may not need a whole container. With an LCL, you share space with other shippers and pay only for what you use at $120-$280 per cubic meter.
• LCL is Ideal For: Singles moving apartments or single bedroom households and couples with no children. 
• Air Freight: If you need your things quickly, air freight is your fastest option. You can get your stuff to China from Los Angeles in just 3 days versus 20-30 days by sea. But air freight runs around $4-$8 per kilogram and will cost you 4-6 times more than ocean shipping.

You can always split your options and consider air freight for important documents, valuables, or that first batch of essentials you’ll need right away while you wait for your main shipment to arrive by sea.

Also, be aware that the new tariff policies on goods coming into the U.S. have resulted in other regions raising tariffs on our outbound shipments as well.  You’ll want to do some research on how the triffs work in your destination country and factor that into your budget.

Tariffs can add significantly to your total costs regardless of shipping method.

Your international moving costs will vary quite a bit depending on how much you bring. For example, if you’re moving from North America to Europe, you might pay around $3,500 for a small one-bedroom apartment’s worth of belongings, while a full five-to-six-bedroom home could run you up to $17,000.

If you’re headed to other continents like Asia or Australia, expect these numbers to climb a bit higher thanks to the extra distance.

In many cases, it’s more affordable to put your valuable and sentimental items in storage, especially if there’s a chance you’ll move back later on. If not, you might find it’s cheaper to sell or donate and replace things when you get to your new home than to pay all these shipping costs. We’ll cover the ins and outs of both these approaches down below. First, let’s run through the pre-moving checklist for moving abroad.    

Moving Abroad Checklist: What To Do Before You Move

Let’s run through the international moving checklist of items to research and consider as soon as you start planning the move. An international move is like long-distance moving plus the element of feeling like a fish out of water in a whole new culture.  

Before you even start thinking about the daunting task of packing and storing your belongings, you’ll want to look into the following checklist items:

1. Compare your Cost of Living

Research the cost of living in your destination homeland, and we don’t just mean your housing costs. You’ll want to look into the everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, transportation, hobbies, and entertainment. 

For example, the cost of living can vary dramatically between countries, especially when you factor in visa application fees and work visa terms, security deposit, and potential property management company fees. It’s also prudent to have a contingency fund for unexpected expenses that pop up during any significant life change.

Be sure to factor in existing student loan debt and find out if you can transfer your pension scheme. And if you plan to keep any of your property in your current country of residence, consider how your move will impact your non-resident landlord scheme status and capital gains tax.

We suggest opening an international bank account in your destination country as soon as possible.

Research different banking options and their international services, including currency exchange rates and international money transfer options. Be mindful of exchange rate fluctuations, as they can significantly impact the value of your transferred funds over time. Contact your current bank to learn about its international policies for your existing bank account and whether it’s worth keeping.

2. Study Your Destination Country’s Customs and Laws

Make an effort to get to know the local culture, local language, and social customs of the place you plan to move to. We suggest familiarizing yourself with the laws, especially those affecting expat groups. Work visas and work permits are a great place to start. 

Don’t forget about income or property taxes, vaccines and documentation for pets, and the country’s insurance requirements.

3. Get Your Documentation Together

The money stuff isn’t where the boring, administrative side of moving abroad ends, unfortunately. Next up on our moving abroad checklist is gathering all your documentation, which will save you lots of time and prevent delays.

Start with your passport, which needs to be valid for at least six months after your intended stay, and have enough blank pages to accommodate travel. Get your Social Security card and any other national identification documents together and keep them ready.

Certified copies of documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees may ease the process of securing visa applications, housing rentals, and employment. You might need academic transcripts, diplomas, and professional certifications for employment or school applications.

Secure all your medical records, including a detailed health history, any chronic conditions, allergies, prescriptions, and past treatments. Your immunization records are often required to enter a new country, and you might have to consult with your doctor for any necessary vaccinations, documentation, or health certificates.

If you have pets, an international health certificate, including proof of vaccines and documentation for pets, is probably required as well.

If you plan to drive, you’ll need a current driver’s license. An IDP serves as an official translation of your license and is often a requirement for driving or renting vehicles once you arrive.

Look up the visa requirements for your destination to find out what other documents you’ll need so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. You can score the most accurate and up-to-date information on official government immigration websites.

We suggest putting all these documents in a binder and having backup digital copies, both on the cloud and on an encrypted external drive.

4. Secure Health Insurance and Gather Medical Information

Another item on your international moving checklist for relocating abroad is to look into the health insurance situation of your new homeland. Having is not merely a recommendation but often a legal requirement for obtaining visas and residing in a new country.

Healthcare provisions and laws change from place to place. Scoring healthcare abroad may not be just a luxury, but a legal requirement.

For European destinations, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) gives you access to state healthcare at a reduced cost or sometimes for free. That said, you’ll still want to secure comprehensive health insurance. 

Similarly, UK residents might benefit from the UK Global Health Insurance Card for healthcare. But keep in mind that all these cards often have limitations and don’t always cover all medical needs, private healthcare, or emergency repatriation.

That’s why it’s important to do your research and consider an international health insurance policy with adequate cover to help ease your transition. Pay close attention to deductibles, co-pays, and coverage limits. And if you have a job lined up, find out if your new employer offers international health coverage.

5. Apply for an International Driver’s Permit

Next on your Moving Abroad Checklist is using some of those documents you secured earlier to get an international driver’s permit.

Different countries have different regulations regarding foreign drivers. And the rules of the road vary, too. So we suggest researching the local traffic laws, speed limits, road signage, and whether they drive on the right or left side of the road while you’re at it.

As we mentioned earlier, start with an International Driver’s Permit (IDP), which translates your current driver’s license into multiple languages.

Your IDP isn’t a standalone license, so you’ll still need your current driver’s license with you as well. You’ll probably want to get a local driver’s license as soon as you qualify, but your IDP can serve as a stopgap as soon as you arrive.

6. Research International Moving Companies

Transporting all the material aspects of your life from one country to another is one of the most daunting tasks of an international move. But you don’t have to go at it alone.

Research some reputable international moving companies and reach out for international moving tips from the experienced pros.  Make a list of all the companies you contact and keep track of their international moving quotes. Be sure you’re contacting international moving companies with a trackable and transparent track record in helping people like you relocate abroad.

Ask about the company’s insurance policies and how much protection they offer your belongings during transit. You may want to add your own international moving insurance coverage just to be sure.

7. Research Pet Relocation Companies

If you’re bringing your furry family members along for the international move, research your pet relocation companies well in advance. Moving pets internationally means more than just booking a flight. It’s a complex process with specific regulations and health requirements that vary by destination.

Explore your pet travel options early. Small pets may travel in-cabin if they meet airline requirements, while larger animals travel as cargo. But your pet carrier will have to be airline-approved, properly ventilated, secure, and large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

That said, keep in mind that the flights are long–often 10-18 hours long. Your furry friend might need some pharmaceutical help to make the trip without suffering severe anxiety.

If you want some professional help, you might look into an animal transportation company. A pet relocation company employs specialists familiar with all the international pet travel requirements, from obtaining the correct health certificate and vaccines to navigating quarantine regulations to easing your pet’s travel.

Look for a pet relocation company experienced in your specific route and type of pet. They’ll handle everything from arranging the appropriate pet carrier to tending to your pet’s health to coordinating with airlines and customs.

Once you’ve contacted all the reputable pet relocation companies and documented their pricing quotes, you’ll want to book as soon as possible. They often book out several months ahead of time. And you want to give yourself time to make preparations and get the right documentation.

Prioritizing Your Moving Abroad Packing List

Now that you’ve got your moving abroad checklist knocked out, it’s time to make a packing checklist. Packing for an international move is a strategic process that involves decluttering, prioritizing, and understanding what to ship, what to sell, and what to leave behind. This is where making a detailed packing checklist can come in handy.

The first step is to organize your belongings into three categories: essentials to ship, nice-to-haves if space allows, and easy to replace at the destination. You can literally put your belongings into three piles if you have the time and space. Or you can go through with a pen and paper and list everything in one of those three initial categories.

Your essentials should be the items that are expensive to replace, have sentimental value, or are difficult to find in your destination country. The nice-to-haves might be quality items you love but could technically live without. The easy-to-replace category includes basic household goods, inexpensive electronics, and everyday items that are easy to find in your destination country.

Then, you hone your lists even further by reorganizing them into four primary categories: Must-Ship, Sell, Donate, and Store.

Items that are sentimentally valuable, essential for your new life, or expensive to replace are candidates for shipping. But the cost of shipping items, including potential customs fees and tariffs, can outweigh the cost of purchasing new items abroad. For instance, common electronics might be cheaper to replace than to ship due to voltage differences and the expense of international shipping.

Anything you can replace or that’s bulky, dated, or non-essential is a prime candidate for selling or donating. Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local consignment shops can help you recoup some costs.

You also want to consider the size of your doorways and rooms in your new house. There’s no reason to ship something that won’t even fit through the door.

Anything that you’re not ready to part with but won’t need in your new home can be placed in self-storage, and we’ll cover that process in more depth later on.

Since the climate might not be the same in your new homeland, you want to pay to ship climate-appropriate clothing.

For electronics, ensure you have the correct travel adapter. Keep in mind that voltage compatibility changes in different countries. It may be cheaper to replace your electronic items than to buy adaptors that fit European plugs for everything you own.

Prescription medications should be packed in their original containers with prescriptions.

Now’s when you really want to research any customs restrictions in your destination country. This often includes food products, plants, certain medications, and weapons.

Creating this international moving checklist inventory 3-4 months before it’s time to move gives you plenty of time to sell unwanted items, donate what you don’t need, and gather all the necessary documentation.

Before we move on to how to sell items for an international move, here’s one last tip.

Pack a first-week essentials box that travels with you rather than in your shipping container. Your essentials box should include important documents, medications, basic toiletries, and a few changes of clothes.

Your shipped belongings might take a few weeks to arrive. Having your essentials with you will make those first days in your new country more comfortable, especially considering the adjustment you’ll likely already be going through.

International Moving Tips: Selling Items Before Moving Overseas

Your international moving costs will vary quite a bit depending on how much you bring. For example, if you’re moving from North America to Europe, you might pay around $3,500 for a small one-bedroom apartment‘s worth of belongings, while a full five-to-six-bedroom home could run you up to $17,000.

If you’re headed to other continents like Asia or Australia, expect these numbers to climb a bit higher thanks to the extra distance.

This is one of those “less is more” moments, where we tell you that the more you aim to bring in your overseas move, the more expensive it will be.

Since an international move is already a bit like starting over, you might want to take the opportunity to downsize and part with things you don’t use or need.

Know When It’s Cheaper to Replace Than To Ship

There may be some things that cost less to replace than to ship. For example, that $50 bedside lamp might cost $200 to ship and clear customs. You can make some travel cash by selling your old lamp in your country of origin before you move and buying a new one once you get there.

The same goes for all your other bulky, low-value items like basic furniture, kitchen appliances, or everyday household goods that are easy to track down in your new country.

Researching what it costs to replace any items you’re not emotionally attached to can help you make clear-headed decisions about what’s worth bringing.

Start Selling Early

Quality furniture, small appliances, and attractive home décor all tend to sell fast. But on the other hand, dated electronics and specialty hobby equipment can move so slowly that you might consider donating them for a tax deduction.

Start listing larger furniture pieces 2-3 months before your move, as more expensive items that require large vehicle pick-ups typically take longer.

Smaller items can wait until about 4-6 weeks out, especially if they’re affordable, marked down, pr in high demand. Use multiple channels to help you reach more potential buyers:

• Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are good sources for helpful household items and furniture
• Local estate sales, if you have a lot to move
• Consignment shops for high-value pieces like art, antiques, and specialty furniture.

You can always throw a yard sale, try to move the majority of it all at once!

Price your items at 40-60% below retail for quick sales. After all, you’ll still come out way ahead compared to the hefty international shipping costs.

Set Realistic Expectations

The hard truth is that you’ll typically recoup only 20-40% of what you originally paid for most items. But don’t let that discourage you.

Recouping anything at all to put toward the cost of buying new stuff when you arrive in your new homeland beats the cost of international shipping, especially when you factor in customs duties and tariffs.

Think of it as getting paid to downsize and lighten your load rather than paying the high international shipping costs for stuff you can replace for less.

Or, if you have belongings that are sentimental, like antiques, collectibles, or family heirlooms that you don’t want to get rid of but won’t really need, consider investing in a self-storage unit.

Self-storage can keep your valuable items safe and secure in your country of origin while you settle into your new adventure abroad. Let’s take a look at how to use self-storage for your international move.

International Moving Tips: Storage Solutions for International Moves

The goal of an international move may be to take your life into a new frontier. But you are not your stuff, and your mental and financial health are worth exploring some other options.

This is especially true in situations where you may come back to your country of origin at some point.

Maybe you’re moving abroad on a temporary international assignment for a two-year work contract. Or perhaps you’re not sure this move will pan out permanently, or you have cherished family heirlooms you’re simply not ready to part with yet.

Regardless, putting your goods in self-storage can prevent you from either paying the high costs of international shipping or replacing all your items only to move back home.

• Domestic storage typically runs $50 to $200 a month, depending on the unit size, the storage amenities you need, and the storage location. 
• Compare that to international shipping costs of $3,000 to $17,000 one-way, depending on how much you’re bringing and where you’re headed.
• Even if you store your belongings for two to three years, you could still spend less than half of what you’d pay to ship everything overseas and then ship it all back again if you return home.

Be honest about whether there’s a chance you’ll move back to your country of origin a few years after your departure. If so, self-storage is probably a more financially sound choice than selling everything now and having to re-buy it all later on to sell it all again when you move back home.

We also suggest looking into climate-controlled storage options. Climate-controlled units sit at a temperature between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. They also equip humidity-monitoring and management technology to keep relative humidity within an ideal range, preserving your more sensitive belongings.

Climate control does cost a bit more than non-climate-controlled storage. But it’s worth it to protect your quality furniture, important documents, family photographs, and electronics. Extreme temperature fluctuations and drastically high or low humidity levels can cause warping, mold growth, and moisture or pest damage to these more sensitive items.

You can even find a vehicle storage facility where you can keep your car, motorcycle, or truck safe and sound while you’re gone.

Beyond the practical benefits, there’s something psychologically comforting about having a “safety net” of stored belongings back in the old country while you’re adjusting to life abroad. Knowing that your familiar items are safely tucked away back home takes the pressure off the international move, so it doesn’t feel like the stakes are so high.

If you’re feeling rushed to make decisions about what to keep or sell, or if getting rid of your belongings is making you hesitate on your final decision, you won’t be able to move forward and focus on settling into your new home.

Ready To Tackle Your Moving Abroad Checklist? Here’s How SelfStorage.com Can Help

By now, you probably have a pretty clear idea of what to expect when moving abroad. Start working down your moving abroad checklist by calculating your international shipping costs for different methods. Then work your way down your pre-moving checklist to get all your documents in order. 

Once you’re ready, use the four-category decision framework of Must-Ship, Sell, Donate, Store to make informed choices about what you’re taking with you and what you’re doing with the stuff you leave behind. 

Storing, selling, and donating things you won’t need can reduce your shipping volume by 40-60%, lowering your international shipping prices by thousands of dollars.

But moving abroad is already emotional enough without forcing yourself to get rid of sentimental possessions. Parting with the personal belongings that have made you comfortable can feel overwhelming, even when it’s temporary. This is especially true when you’re already facing the uncertainty of building a new life in a new country. 

That said, downsizing the load you’re shipping doesn’t have to mean going full minimalist. That’s where self-storage comes in. 

Whether you’re storing family heirlooms until you’re settled, keeping your belongings safe during a temporary assignment, or simply creating a safety net while you test out your new life abroad, using self-storage as a solution can elevate your financial and mental health.

And SelfStorage.com is here to help. Our signature self-storage search tool makes it easy to compare storage facilities in your area. Just punch in your zip code and use our amenity filters to isolate your ideal storage units by price, amenities like climate control and enhanced security features, and location. 

Moving abroad is an emotional decision. Deciding where to store the sentimental items you leave behind doesn’t have to be. Book a storage unit with our platform now. You choose your unit and move-in date, and we take care of the rest.

After a life spent working, saving, and securing your family’s legacy, you finally get to reap the rewards of retirement…but where will you choose to spend those years?

Retirement looks different for everyone, and you’ll want to make the best decision for your wants and needs. Do you want a simple, no-frills retirement, or a luxurious one? Do you prefer beaches, mountains, cities, or farmland? How do you compare different states based on taxes, healthcare, climate, culture, and cost?

If you’re overwhelmed by the prospect of deciding where to retire, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll go over a few important factors to consider and tips to use when nailing down your ultimate retirement destination.

What states have the lowest tax on retirement savings?

You’ll be able to get the most out of your retirement savings in a state with little to no income tax or tax on Social Security benefits. After you’ve used the $1000-per-month rule, which states that you need approximately $240,000 in savings for every $1,000 you want to withdraw each month during retirement, it’s important to consider how taxes might affect those savings.

As of this writing, eight states don’t tax income: 

• Alaska
• Florida
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Wyoming

These tax breaks extend to Social Security and withdrawals from 401(k) and Roth IRA accounts. You’ll also find that most states don’t tax Social Security benefits or offer tax relief for retired seniors to offset their taxes; the only states that do tax Social Security benefits are Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Vermont, Utah, and West Virginia.

However, even with this information in hand, you should still do research to see how the cost of living, sales, and property taxes offset the income tax breaks a state may offer. It’s important to compare states and see whether what you’d save from taxes is worth an increased cost of living.

What are some good cities to retire in for people of various budget sizes?

No matter your budget, you can find a place to retire that won’t wipe out your savings. Here are five selected destinations, from lowest to highest cost of living.

Fort Wayne, IN

A combination of small town and small city charm invites potential retirees to Fort Wayne, Indiana. Seniors looking to stay engaged with the great outdoors will enjoy the town’s 100+ miles of hiking and walking trails, and patrons of the arts can explore local art museums or take in local talent at community theatre shows.

Midland, MI

Alongside a significantly lower cost of living than many places, Midland, Michigan gives retirees access to beautiful Lake Michigan and plenty of places to walk and enjoy the outdoors. If you’re looking to stay healthy during your retirement, Midland consistently ranks high in affordable, high-quality healthcare to keep you in good shape and improve your quality of life.

Spring Hill, FL

Florida is a popular yet expensive place to retire, but if you’re looking for the full experience on a budget, look into the community of Spring Hill. You’ll get the natural beauty of the Weeki Wachee River, plenty of local flora and botanical gardens, and easy access to beautiful beaches, all at a cost of living that’s 16% below the national average.

The Woodlands, TX

The Texas community of The Woodlands offers an upscale take on a suburban environment, allowing retirees to build a small-town community while taking advantage of amenities you usually only get in larger cities. Take in a show at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Music Pavilion, visit local parks and trails, or even take a day trip to Houston in minutes.

Naples, FL

Naples is where retirees who’ve been saving for years go to spend their retirement years in the lap of luxury. If you’re willing to save and pay for it, you’ll have access to resort-like daily life, upscale food and places to live, and some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Florida.

What non-monetary factors play into having a happy retirement?

No matter what the numbers might tell you, retirement satisfaction depends on much more than how much money you save or spend. The “best” place to retire depends on your individual priorities regarding location, culture, and healthcare; for example, if you prefer to retire to a simple life in a mountainous area, using your savings to retire to Naples, FL will leave you dissatisfied.

Do plenty of research into the culture and climate of your retirement options before you make a decision. You should also look into the quality of healthcare if you’re worried about staying healthy during retirement, proximity to your family members if you want them to visit you often, and the sense of community in the area if community is important to you.

Should I rent or buy my retirement home?

Housing is an important consideration when deciding what your retirement will look like. Do you prefer the flexibility of renting or the stability of buying a home?

• Renting an apartment or home for retirement gives you the ability to change your mind and figure out which location is best for you if you’re not ready to make a permanent decision. This is especially useful for your first few years in a new location.
  • You may want to look into self-storage if you’re living in a smaller space or planning on moving around often, as you’ll need some extra space in a consistent location to keep your belongings.
• Buying a home for retirement will help you build equity and credit, and provide stability if you’re ready to settle down in a new location for the long term.
  • Self-storage will help you in this instance as well as you figure out what your home structure will look like and you decide what to keep and what to get rid of.

How can self storage make my retirement move easier?

No matter where you move or how you spend your retirement years, it’s worth considering self storage to help make your move easier. If you’re opting for rental in order to try out several new places, or you live a “snowbird” lifestyle and travel to warmer climates every winter, you’ll benefit even more from renting a storage unit to keep some of your belongings in, and you’ll find it’s surprisingly affordable.

Here are some common storage unit sizes and monthly rental prices you may find in the states we’ve listed. As you’ll see, prices vary wildly between states based on demand and proximity to popular moving destinations, so this may factor into your decision.

How can I find the right self storage unit for my retirement move?

Whatever your retirement may look like, choosing the best place to spend it means you’ll need to balance quality of life with finances and savings. It all depends on your unique priorities and budget, but it always requires you to plan. With enough research, you’ll have your location and self-storage needs taken care of ahead of time for a long, fulfilling retirement.

Still seeking out a place to store belongings you don’t think you’ll have space for? We can help! Use SelfStorage.com’s built-in search tool to compare storage facilities near your retirement destination and find one that fits your budget and needs.