Popular cities often highlighted include Seattle, Denver, Portland, Salt Lake City, and San Francisco. Each city offers unique benefits such as job opportunities, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.
Exploring the best places to live out West can transform your life, offering everything from booming job markets to serene landscapes perfect for a healthy lifestyle. If you’re thinking about moving across the country, this ultimate guide provides a look at top destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the innovation centers or the lush, outdoor paradises of Boise, this guide covers a range of cities that combine opportunity with quality of life.
The Western United States is rich with diverse and appealing living options that cater to various lifestyles and preferences. Cities like Salt Lake City, Boise, and Reno are prime examples of areas combining economic growth with access to nature, making them some of the best places to live out West.
Salt Lake City is notable for its booming tech industry and vibrant job market, while Boise and Reno appeal to those seeking a balance of a healthy lifestyle and a tight-knit community. Further west, San Francisco and San Diego offer endless sunshine and cultural richness, although at a higher cost of living.
For those looking to make a move to these dynamic regions, it’s practical to hire a moving and auto transport company like USA Auto Transport to ensure a smooth transition, handling everything from packing to vehicle shipping.
Salt Lake City is rapidly emerging as a beacon of opportunity for professionals seeking to thrive in a vibrant job market. With an impressively low unemployment rate of 2.1% and a median household income of $65,880, the benefits of relocating here are clear. Known as the “Silicon Slopes,” this region is experiencing a tech boom, making it an ideal destination for those in the technology sector.
Major companies with bolstering job prospects in this city include:
Moreover, the city hosts key players in healthcare, education, retail, and government, including Intermountain Healthcare, Delta Air Lines, and the University of Utah. Relocating to a big city that offers prosperity and a thriving tech scene can be a transformative move for career growth.
Exploring career opportunities at the Silicon Slopes offers a gateway to one of the most promising tech hubs. Aspiring professionals should consider attending the Silicon Slopes Summit, a globally renowned two-day conference orchestrated by the Silicon Slopes organization.
It is among the largest and most distinguished annual tech events globally, attracting over 20,000 participants. It showcases a lineup of distinguished speakers, offers a variety of breakout sessions, provides entertainment, and facilitates numerous networking opportunities.
Engaging in such high-profile events can significantly enhance job prospects and provide valuable industry insights and connections. This is a great opportunity for finding a job even before officially moving to another home.
Boise, known as the City of Trees, is an appealing destination for those seeking a connection with nature and a healthy lifestyle. Nestled in the heart of the Treasure Valley, Boise offers a scenic oasis with the Boise River winding through it. The city is equipped with over 20 miles of paved Greenbelt trails for biking and walking.
With major employment opportunities at Boise State University, St. Luke’s Regional Medical Center, and tech giants like Micron and HP, Boise combines career growth with lifestyle. For those preparing to move and determined to avoid depression after moving, the plethora of outdoor activities ensures a fulfilling and engaging community life. The availability of fresh, healthy food options at local markets like Boise Co-op or popular chains such as Whole Foods further supports a wellness-oriented lifestyle.
Boise stands out not only for its breathtaking scenery but also for its exceptionally clean and tight-knit community.
A stroll down Freak Alley reveals walls adorned with striking murals, an art space kept remarkably free of litter, reflecting the local ethos of cleanliness.
This pristine environment extends throughout the city, where residents take pride in maintaining their spaces and contribute to the communal atmosphere. The welcoming nature of Boise’s citizens can significantly ease relocation stress, making it easier to meet new neighbors and feel at home quickly.
This city’s community spirit is palpable, with people often seen exchanging smiles, assisting in traffic, or performing acts of kindness, such as returning lost items at the local farmer’s market.
Vancouver (not the Canadian one) is frequently highlighted as one of the safest cities in the country, ranking as the 43rd safest according to WalletHub as of October 2023. If moving out for the first time and are worried about safety in other locations, Vancouver offers a reassuring option.
Despite occasional challenges like a stretched police force and rising non-violent crimes such as car thefts and break-ins, the overall sense of security remains balanced. Residents can attest to the minimal change in the daily living experience over the past five years. For those aiming to pick the best city to live in, Vancouver stands out as a top choice for its safe community life.
Vancouver stands out as a financially appealing choice for those trying to decide where to live, particularly due to its lack of state income tax. This unique perk places Washington, and hence Vancouver, among just nine states in the US that offer such a tax benefit. To put it in perspective, while neighbors in Oregon face nearly a 10% state income tax, in Vancouver, you’ll enjoy a significant boost in your take-home pay.
This tax advantage has made Vancouver a popular destination, especially among Portland residents planning their retirement. However, it’s worth noting that Vancouver’s sales tax is quite high at 8.5%, leading savvy shoppers to occasionally cross state lines for big-ticket items. This blend of financial benefits and strategic shopping can make anyone start saving money to relocate here.
Reno is emerging as an affordable alternative to Silicon Valley, drawing numerous technology and manufacturing companies over the past seven years. Unlike many regions, Reno’s economy has flourished, even during the pandemic, thanks to nearly 90 tech and manufacturing firms, including giants like:
The influx of these companies is set to create thousands of high-paying jobs in the coming years, making it an attractive destination for those looking to relocate for a job or move to another place to start over. Additionally, Reno offers a relatively low cost of living and short commutes, further enhancing its appeal as a hub for career growth and personal fulfillment.
When house hunting in Reno, expect a compelling mix of affordability and variety, making it a standout choice among major regional cities. As of 2024, apartment rents in Reno range between $1,162 and $1,747, catering to a range of budget needs.
The city features a diverse array of neighborhoods and architectural styles, ensuring options for different tastes and financial situations. For instance, Midtown Reno provides charming historic homes, while newer developments in South Reno offer modern amenities.
A major financial perk is the absence of state income tax just like in Vancouver, which allows residents to keep more of their income, significantly improving their financial outlook. This blend of budget-friendly housing and financial incentives makes Reno an ideal spot for those planning a move.
For those chasing sunny skies, Californian cities San Francisco and San Diego are top contenders. Really, a guide like this would be incomplete without mentioning these dynamic West Coast cities. San Francisco stands out with its unique neighborhoods and rich cultural history, having played pivotal roles in the bohemian lifestyle, LGBTQ+ rights movement, and the tech revolution. Each area, from the historic Mission District to the lively Embarcadero, offers its distinct character.
On the other hand, San Diego is famous for its year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and varied living options, from coastal to urban to suburban. The city is known for its top-tier dining and tight-knit communities coming together at festivals, farmers markets, and local events. For anyone looking to move to the West Coast, these Californian gems offer a lifestyle rich in sunshine and diverse activities.
Once you research the best western states to live in, the next step is to find reputable movers to ensure a smooth transition. Start by researching movers through the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) website, which offers a database of companies. Check reviews and ratings on platforms like Yelp and Google to gauge customer satisfaction.
It’s also crucial to verify credentials and insurance coverage. If auto transport services are needed, find companies that are shipping cars in the USA as well. One such company is ours – USA Auto Transport. We offer excellent benefits when investing in our services.
During the selection process of a relocation and car shipping company, compare quotes and moving services offered and read customer feedback to avoid potential issues. Taking these steps can make the moving process more reliable and stress-free.
Being aware of potential moving scams is essential when hiring movers for long-distance relocation. Red flags include demands for large upfront deposits, lack of proper licensing, and vague or incomplete contracts.
Check for reviews that mention unresolved complaints or suspicious practices. When considering auto transport options, inquire whether the company offers both open and enclosed auto transport to ensure flexibility and safety for your vehicle.
Be wary of lowball estimates that significantly undercut competitors, as they might indicate fraudulent activities. Clear communication and transparency with the moving company can help protect against scams and ensure a smooth moving experience.
When you make a decision to head westward, apart from our moving services, you can choose open auto transport or enclosed transport for your vehicle. We also offer door-to-door auto transport and terminal-to-terminal car shipping delivery options.
With our expertise, you can avoid common moving pitfalls and focus on settling into the new home. Reach out to us, USA Auto Transport, today for a seamless relocation experience and let us handle the logistics of relocating your household.
Popular cities often highlighted include Seattle, Denver, Portland, Salt Lake City, and San Francisco. Each city offers unique benefits such as job opportunities, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.
Cities like Salt Lake City, Denver, and recently Reno are known for their strong job markets, particularly in technology, healthcare, and finance. San Francisco is also a major tech hub.
According to various safety rankings, cities like Irvine, CA, Boise, ID, and Vancouver, WA, are often cited as some of the safest places to live.
Researching online resources, visiting potential cities, considering personal preferences, and consulting with real estate professionals can help in making an informed decision.
Consider factors such as the cost of living, job market, and climate. On top of this, don’t forget to look into the quality of schools, healthcare facilities, recreational opportunities, and overall lifestyle preferences.
