Moving to the East Coast – What Are the Best Cities to Settle In?

December 29, 2022 / Posted in City Guides
Milly Andrews

Born and raised in Portland, Milly has had a lot of experience moving and writing about the relocation process.

Considering a move to the Atlantic coastline? If moving to the East Coast is your dream, but you don’t know the exact location just yet, we can help. We’ll take a look at some of the best spots to live in and give you our thoughts on why each one would be a great choice for you.

Boston seaport and skyline
The Atlantic coast offers some wonderful spots to call home

So, what cities will we be talking about? Well, taking into account various factors, from job opportunities to the quality of life, we’ve chosen our top five picks of the East Coast. Charlotte (NC), Boston (MA), Charleston (SC), Portland (ME), or Jacksonville (FL) – pick any of these spots, and you won’t be making a relocation mistake – far from it.

What Are the Perks of Moving to the East Coast?

Sure, the West Coast has its own perks, namely the warmer climate and the laid-back vibe. However, there’s a good reason why there are more people on the opposite side of the country. To be more specific, estimates show there are around 120 million of them – that’s more than one-third of the overall US population!

And really, the East Coast is home to some of the most vibrant cities in the country, offering something for everyone, from college students to the elderly. Let’s take a closer look at all the relocation benefits that await you if this is your next place to be:

Job Opportunities

This region is home to some of the biggest companies in America and has an exceptional business climate. This means that if you want to get a job in a new city soon after the move, you have an excellent chance of finding one. Plus, many cities have thriving startup scenes as well, offering plenty of opportunities for entrepreneurs who are looking for a big break.

Cost of Living

Smaller cities like Pittsburgh and Baltimore offer affordable living compared to larger spots like New York City. Plus, many cities offer public transportation options that make getting around pretty affordable. Of course, it’s always best to hire a relocation and car shipping company and take your prized ride with you – nothing beats the comfort of your own four-wheeler!

The main question is – are you willing to look outside of major metropolitan areas before hiring cross-country movers? If that’s the case, then you can rest easy knowing that there are plenty of great places with cheaper rent and lower cost of living than the main hot spots.

Highly Ranked Universities

Young people frequently decide to move to another state for better education opportunities – and nothing comes close to what the East Coast has to offer. If you plan to move to college, you’ve got more than enough options to choose from – Harvard, Princeton, Colombia, Yale, Cornell, Boston University – you name it.

Charlotte, NC – A High Quality of Life for Affordable Prices

Charlotte is not just one of the best places on the East Coast to live, but it’s also one of the most reasonably priced towns in the whole country. According to PayScale, current living expenses in Charlotte are even 3% lower than the national average, which is perfect for those with lower relocation budgets!

The economic boom in the area, which has seen tens of thousands of workers employed by major financial institutions such as Wells Fargo and Bank of America, is mostly to blame (or praise) for Charlotte’s rise. But great job opportunities are not all this big city has to offer – if you’re seeking a place with excellent food, shopping, and nightlife options, know that you’ll find it here.

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The Culture and the Weather Only Add to Charlotte’s Appeal

Charlotte is also home to fantastic museums such as The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and The Mint Museum Uptown – both of which feature works from internationally renowned artists.

If you don’t want to spend a day stuck between walls, know that Charlotte’s British-inspired architecture, cobblestone streets, and lush parks will make your stay outside more than interesting. Additionally, note that Charlotte has ideal weather conditions all year round! Whether you prefer skiing, swimming, or anything in between – you’ll be able to enjoy your preferred outdoor recreation.

Aerial view of Charlotte, North Carolina
Did you know that this city is named after the wife of King George III, Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz?

Boston, MA – An Easy-to-Get-Around City Full of Job Opportunities

Thanks to its rich history and expanding employment options, Boston is definitely worth mentioning. First and foremost, getting a job here shouldn’t be an issue. Many significant businesses are headquartered in Beantown, which consistently ranks as one of the greatest places to live and work.

Moreover, it’s named one of the best cities for walking to work. However, the high quality of life this city offers drives many to try their luck here, which has affected the high cost of living in Boston – and it can be challenging if you’re relocating on a budget.

Even though you might not consider Boston to be a beach city, you’ll be able to spend your time in the water when you move to Boston. There’s Revere Beach, the country’s first public beach, but there are other places you can enjoy. Living in Boston also comes with many outdoor recreational activities, with a ton of places for kayaking, rock climbing, skiing, and other activities you can enjoy if the beach isn’t your thing.

Before Cross Country Moving Here, Know That Boston Is Famous for Its Transportation System

The city of Boston has an excellent public transportation system that makes getting around pretty convenient – if you’re tired of all the walking. The MBTA subway system covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas, while buses run throughout many neighborhoods too.

With this reliable form of transportation available, you can get wherever you need to go quickly and easily. However, you can always opt to hire a relocation and auto transport company to bring your prized ride with you – just keep in mind that traffic can get pretty congested here.

Girl enjoying Boston after cross-country moving
You'll be able to see both on and off-road crowds once you move to Boston

Charleston, SC – An Excellent Place for Art and History Lovers

Once named one of the best cities worldwide, Charleston is one of the oldest cities in South Carolina, which is why the city itself represents a stunning sight, brimming with historical structures.

The Holy City is renowned for its enchanting historic area but also for excellent dining options, while its charm is a reason it has become one of the most romantic places in the States. The best part is that you can enjoy all of it without breaking the bank.

As for the job market, keep in mind that technology and commercial shipping services have secured new growth in the region, even though tourism still dominates the local economy. The Charleston region is choosing to host important IT companies like Blackbaud, increasing the demand for qualified tech personnel.

Charleston Can Be a Piece of Heaven for the Outdoorsy Types

If spending your days in nature sounds appealing, start packing and book long-distance moving services, because Charleston has it all! With its many parks, trails, and waterways, you can fill your days with outdoor activities like biking, fishing, and swimming – you name it!

Not only do these outdoor adventures provide an escape from everyday life, but they also give visitors a chance to explore some breathtaking scenery while they’re at it. Whether you’re looking for a nice spot to relax or an exciting beach experience full of activities like kayaking and surfing, the beaches in Charleston have something for everyone.

A person on a skateboard enjoying the beach after long-distance moving
Charleston is a true hidden gem of the East Coast

Portland, ME – Successfully Combines a Small-Town Feel With Big City Amenities

Portland is home to about one-third of the people who live in Maine, but it has successfully preserved its small-town feel and tight-knit community.

Although mostly recognized for its agriculture and fishing industry, Portland has become the region’s hub for economics, tourism, and growth. So, whatever your line of work is, you can rest assured that relocating here will come with plenty of opportunities.

Mill Ends Park, the world's smallest park, is located in Portland

At the same time, know that Portland’s location on Casco Bay gives this place a unique atmosphere that will make you plan the move right away. From the bustling fishing docks to the oceanfront Old Port district, there are many places to explore and things to do right on the waterfront.

Jacksonville, FL – This City Promises So Much Fun, No Matter the Age

In addition to having extremely affordable housing in comparison with other Florida’s main towns, J-ville is also home to one of the greatest military posts in the nation for families. With typical temperatures of 80 degrees and fantastic weather, Jacksonville is the perfect place to spend your days outdoors on its fantastic beaches.

If you plan to move with kids, know that this city also provides a wide range of family-friendly activities, including professional sporting events, neighborhood festivals, zoos, and more!

However, Jacksonville has a lot to offer for those relocating to a new city alone, as well. It is home to many popular bars and clubs that will keep even the most active party-goer entertained all night long! Whether it’s live music at one of the local venues or dancing at a nightclub until the early hours of the morning, there’s never a dull moment in Jacksonville’s dynamic nightlife scene.

People at the concert after long-distance moving
Jax is considered the youngest city in FL, so the amazing nightlife scene shouldn't come as a surprise

Once You Find the Perfect City, Get the Help From the Best Long-Distance Moving Company

Once you decide where to live and find the perfect city for your new chapter in life, it is time to start packing your bags and getting ready for the journey. East Coast moving has never been quite as exciting!

But before you start this new adventure, there are a few things that need to be taken care of – like finding the best cross-country movers. Our team at Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving can assist you every step of the way. For example, with our full packing services, you literally don’t have to move a finger – our long-distance movers will handle it all! Contact us today and let’s get you to one of these East Coast hotspots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cost of Living Like on the East Coast?

The cost of living on the East Coast varies greatly depending on the location, with some cities and states being more expensive than others. Generally, large cities such as New York, Boston, and Washington D.C. are more expensive due to higher housing costs, taxes, and higher living expenses.

What Is the Job Market Like on the East Coast?

The job market on the East Coast varies depending on the location and industry. In general, the East Coast is home to some of the largest metropolitan areas in the country, including New York City, Washington D.C., and Boston, which offer many job opportunities in a wide range of industries.

What Is the Healthcare System Like on the East Coast?

The healthcare system on the East Coast is generally considered to be of high quality, with many world-class hospitals and medical centers located throughout the region. Some of the top-ranked hospitals in the United States, such as Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD, and Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA, are located on the East Coast.

What Is the Education System Like on the East Coast?

The East Coast is home to many world-renowned educational institutions, including Ivy League universities such as Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. The region also has many highly-ranked public and private colleges and universities, such as the University of Virginia, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

What Are the Cultural Differences I Should Be Aware of When Moving to the East Coast?

One major difference is the pace of life – many people on the East Coast have a fast-paced lifestyle and may be more direct and assertive in their communication. It’s also important to be aware of the diverse range of cultures in the region, with cities such as New York, Boston, and Miami being home to large and vibrant immigrant communities.

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