2023 Study: Which College Towns Have the Best Real Estate Investment Potential

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Key Findings

  • The average price of a home in a college town in 2023 is $377,800, 7% lower than the national average of ($406,200), according to Redfin
  • Homes in college towns have appreciated by 4% in the last 12 months, compared to a 1.6% growth rate in home prices across the United States 
  • The best college town for real estate investment is Indiana, PA due to relatively low home prices ($160k), their solid projected growth (+12%), and potentially high rental income
  • Gary, IN is the least expensive college town in the United States with an average home costing around $71,000 in 2023
  • Among college towns, Athens, GA is the hardest real estate market to get into, with an average home price of $355,400 and 64 new listings over 100 home sales

As a new crop of college students start class this September, the cost of attending college has never been higher. At four-year colleges, room and board alone costs around $12,000 to $13,000 per year

That cost is pushing some parents towards buying a home close to their child’s college campus — even if the school might be far away. Renting in college towns remains expensive, but buying a home and renting out part of it could help cover mortgage repayments and so long as prices keep appreciating, it can be a good investment. 

In this study, we rank over 500 college towns on their real estate investment potential based on current home prices, historical and projected growth, housing availability, and potential rental income. Read on to see which college towns score the highest, and where you might want to consider making your new home. 


Prospects of Prosperity: Best College Towns for Real Estate Investment

a photo of a river set next to a trail on the bank. It's fall, and the grass is yellow and trees are different colors
A riverside park in Brownwood, TX, one of the best college towns to invest in real estate

This was our approach to ranking the 580 college towns on the following real estate metrics:

  • Median home price (the lower, the better)
  • Price change in the last 12 months (the more it’s grown, the better)
  • Projected growth in home prices over the next five years (the higher, the better)
  • Favorable housing supply-to-demand ratio (the more new listings for every home sold, the better)
  • Potential rental income (the higher the average rent in the town, the better)

On the balance of these factors, the college town with the best potential for real estate investments is Indiana, PA, scoring 93 out of 100 on our combined scale. 

Home to the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, this town’s home prices average around $160,500 in 2023. Home prices grew 19% in the last 12 months and are projected to grow by 12% more over the next five years. Combined with high levels of housing supply and a potentially high rental income, these factors put Indiana, PA in the #1 spot in our ranking.

 

“The most affordable college towns are largely concentrated in the Midwest, with 7 out of 10 being either in Illinois or Indiana.”

 

McPherson, KS is in second place, with house prices slightly higher ($179,800) and recent growth slightly slower (14% year-over-year). Two more towns from Kansas made our top 10 — Winfield, KS (#5), and Atchison, KS (#10), both with a median home price of around $150,00 and a healthy supply of homes for sale.

Geographically, the 10 highest-ranked towns stretch across the eastern part of the US. The furthest south is Brownwood, TX (#3) where homes are expected to appreciate 20% over the next five years. In the north, there’s Williamsport, PA (#6), where a typical home costs $136,800.

Explore our interactive map below to see what other towns made our top 10.

Here are the top 10 college towns in ranking order:

Rank Town Total Score
1 Indiana, PA 93.0
2 McPherson, KS 92.1
3 Brownwood, TX 88.8
4 Arkadelphia, AR 87.8
5 Winfield, KS 87.3
6 Williamsport, PA 86.8
7 Clinton, SC 86.6
8 Murray, KY 86.1
9 Lubbock, TX 86.0
10 Atchison, KS 85.7


To see where all 580 colleges we ranked are located, check out the full map below. You can also find the college town with the highest real estate investment potential in your state!


An A+ in Affordability: College Towns with Low-Cost Homes

Comparing college towns from a pure price standpoint, there’s no rivaling Gary, IN (#291) — home to Indiana University — where houses sold for a median price of $71,000 in 2023. 

The most affordable college towns are largely concentrated in the Midwest, with 7 out of 10 being either in Illinois or Indiana. Notable among them are Marion, IL (#378) where homes are projected to appreciate 17% by 2028, and Pine Bluff, AR (#30) where the supply of homes is far greater than demand.

In 7 out of the 10 least expensive college towns, the median price of a home in 2023 is below $100,000.

Growing Strong: Top College Towns for Projected Home Value Growth

Overall, home value in college towns has grown by 4% in the last year — higher than the US average of 1.6%. Looking at home price dynamics in college towns, the clear winner is Rock Hill, SC (#217), where both Winthrop University and Clinton College are located. Here, home prices are poised to rise by 33% over the next five years — the highest among college towns in our dataset.

That said, homes in Rock Hill, SC are fairly expensive ($315,900), which makes towns like Mount Vernon, OH (#26), and Anderson, IN (#28) better investment prospects overall with homes priced at $195,400 and $142,300, respectively. 

Another interesting entry on this top 10 list is Buffalo, NY (#85), where the projected 5-year price growth is at 27%, homes go for $183,00 and rents reach an average of $1,349.

Lock and Key: Hardest College Towns Real Estate Markets to Get Into

areal view of athens, GA and a university football stadium

An increasing number of college-goers and their parents might be considering buying a home in a college town. But, much like with college admissions, getting into one might prove a trying task. In most college towns, the demand for homes far outstrips supply.

This is particularly true for Athens, GA (#316) — the home base of the University of Georgia. With only 64 new listings for every 100 home sales and most homes going off the market in only 24 days, buying a home in this college town can be incredibly tricky.

And no wonder! Homes there are valued 21% higher than they were last year and are projected to appreciate by another 7% by 2028.

The second toughest college town to break into is another town in Georgia — Valdosta, GA (#315). Homes here typically cost $180,900 but housing supply is dwindling fast. For every 100 homes sold, only 74 are listed and they usually get sold within 35 days.

 

“Homes in college towns have appreciated by 4% in the last 12 months, compared to a 1.6% growth rate in home prices across the United States” 

 

Two Idaho towns are among those where housing availability is the most scarce — Nampa, ID (#555) and Caldwell, ID (#516). Even though homes here aren’t selling that fast (≈55-60 days), new listings are at a deficit compared to home sales. 

Even though homes in these towns don’t come cheap ($401,300 and $366,300, respectively), rents are high ($1,500+) and in both towns, homes are projected to appreciate by more than 20% in the next five years. 

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Compare and Contrast: All College Towns, Mapped and Ranked

You can Browse all the college towns we analyzed along with their real estate data using the interactive table below.


Sources and Methodology

College towns were selected using the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) available via the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). To be included in the ranking, a college town had to have at least one four-year institution, granting Bachelor-level degrees or higher, where 50% or more students were full-time.
College town population figures were looked up using the Census Bureau estimates. Places with a population of 500,000 or more were excluded.
The total “Best for Real Estate Investment” score has a maximum of 100 points and is based on a selection of six factors, which were weighted as follows:
    • Home Price (30 points) = Median home price in 2023
    • Home Price 12-Month Change (10 points) = Average percentage change in home price compared to 12 months ago
    • Market Projection (15 points) = Projected percent increase or decrease in home price in the next five  years 
    • Real Estate Availability (15 points) = Number of homes sold per 100 new listings 
    • Days On The Market (10 points) = Median number of days a listing spent on the market in 2023
    • Rent (20 points) = Median rent of a residential property in 2023
Figures on the home price in 2023 and its year-over-year change, the number of homes sold, the number of new listings, typical number of days on the market were all taken from Redfin. Rent data was sourced from Zillow’s Housing Data and Rental Market Trends. Five-year market projections were taken from WalletInvestor’s Housing Market Forecast.
Towns with negative 5-year home price growth projections and those with fewer than 50 homes sold in 2023 were excluded from the analysis.

How To Avoid an Eviction: Eviction and Foreclosure Help Guide

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Americans forced to relocate due to evictions and foreclosures went up 56% from 2021 to 2022, according to HireAHelper’s latest migration report. Unfortunately, that increase comes as no surprise, considering that federal legislation banning eviction during the pandemic expired in 2021.

That surge in eviction filings continues to affect households: A U.S. Census Bureau survey showed that as recently as February 2023, 40% of respondents felt they were at risk of eviction in the next eight months.

If you feel you might be at risk, here’s everything you need to know about how to avoid an eviction — or if you own your home, how to avoid a foreclosure.

How Does the Government Define “Eviction”?

eviction

An eviction is a process by which a landlord is legally enabled to force a tenant to leave a rental property.

This differs from…

a foreclosure, which is when a money lender seizes a property from the homeowner because they have fallen behind on their mortgage payments.

What happens when you go through the eviction process

The laws governing evictions and foreclosures vary by state, and the timelines and legal processes vary on a case-by-case basis. But as a general overview, here’s what the eviction process typically looks like:

  • You will receive an eviction notice (this is both mailed and posted on the property)
  • You have 30 days to respond by either vacating and/or paying any outstanding fees (such as overdue rent)
  • If you don’t pay your overdue fees and/or vacate, the landlord will likely file a complaint with the court
  • You’ll be officially notified of the date that you’ll need to appear in court
  • At your court appearance, you’ll be able to make a case as to why you shouldn’t be evicted
  • A judge will make a ruling on your case (you might be court-ordered to pay your fees and/or vacate; if you fail to do so, law enforcement can get involved to uphold the judge’s ruling; or you might win your case, in which case the eviction notice will be voided and removed)

 


“A U.S. Census Bureau survey showed that
as recently as February 2023, 40% of respondents felt they were at risk of eviction in the next eight months.”

 

 

What happens when you go through the foreclosure process

Meanwhile, the foreclosure process can be a little more varied, but often looks like the following:

  • You might begin accruing late fees just days after you miss a payment on your mortgage
  • 30 days after a missed mortgage payment, a borrower (aka homeowner) is considered “in default” of their payments (at this time, it’s important to reach out to the bank or lender and attempt to communicate any hardships or make arrangements to avoid further penalties)
  • Approximately 3-6 months following a missed mortgage payment, lenders can begin the foreclosure process. 
  • Accessable also to the public, you will receive a notice of foreclosure which will outline whether the foreclosure type is judicial, power of sale, or a strict foreclosure (the foreclosure type dictates the timeline, options, and proceedings for the homeowner)

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Your Renter’s Rights and Homeowner’s Rights

renters rights

While it’s a great idea for tenants and property owners to get legal counsel if they face an eviction or foreclosure, it also helps to get educated on your rights as a tenant.

Renter Rights

“Renters rights” refers to a broad set of protections for tenants. They help prevent landlords from evicting tenants anytime they simply want to, specifically without cause. While you should study up on local tenant rights in your particular region, and your particular situation, here are some things to know:

  • There are strict processes governing evictions. Your landlord can’t just lock you out of your apartment or force you to leave out of the blue! Steps they must take include providing notice in writing and giving you the chance to appear in court (see above).
  • If you’re taken to court, you don’t necessarily have a right to a government-provided attorney like you would in a criminal case. Be prepared to seek legal counsel on your own.
  • Evictions don’t happen overnight. There’s usually a fair and reasonable timeline governing the expectation that you vacate your home, even if your landlord has grounds to ask you to leave. Timelines vary by state and region, as well as your unique situation.
  • Your lease is the guiding contract in eviction disputes. You should be able to produce this document and use it to prove you’re living within established guidelines.

Homeowner Rights

Homeowners have rights, too, of course. Here is what to know if you might be facing foreclosure:

  • You have the right to remain on your property while seeking to dispute or prevent foreclosure. This is true up until you are court-ordered to vacate, at which time you are given a certain date to vacate.
  • You have the right to retain an attorney, but one might not be granted to you for free the way one is in a criminal court case. You should look into laws in your area and see what’s available to you in your financial situation.
  • Many services try to swoop in when people are facing foreclosure and take advantage of the situation by pretending they can help or offering too-good-to-be-true foreclosure resources. Just so you know, you’re protected by law from harassment, scams, or egregious sales tactics. Your legal counsel can help with cease-and-desist notifications, but simply making these entities aware that you know your rights can go a long way.
  • You have a right to participate in all meetings, settlement conferences, and court hearings regarding foreclosure of your home.
  • Most importantly, you have the right to settle your balance on your home and retain ownership up to the date that it is foreclosed on.

How To Stop an Eviction

eviction

If you’re concerned about being forced out of your home, but you’re not yet facing this reality, you can still take action.

Here are a few steps you can take now to avoid a foreclosure or stop an eviction:

  1. Communicate your intentions: “Well, of course I want to stay in my home,” you might be thinking. But your intentions might not be that obvious to an institution like a bank or property management company. It can be helpful to reach out to a real person and explain that you would like to try and resolve the situation at hand. Even if you need a little time to sort things out, you’re more likely to keep matters from escalating in the meantime if you communicate your intentions early (and then, of course, back them up with actions).
  2. Be proactive — and act fast: In many cases, eviction and foreclosure cases can be resolved by taking action to resolve the issue at the center of the case. This might be a matter of paying off an outstanding balance or making repairs. The sooner you demonstrate your willingness to resolve the matter, the more likely your landlord, lender, or the other party will be open to pausing proceedings and working with you.
  3. Consider taking out a loan: Many times, evictions and foreclosures come down to money issues, like late payments. Taking out money from a third-party to settle the matter is not always a possibility, or the smartest move. However, let’s say you missed a mortgage payment during a time of financial hardship, but you’re now gradually getting back on your feet. Taking out a loan that protects your investment and allows you to avoid moving fees might be worthwhile in the long run, since you know you’ll be able to pay it back (while still continuing to make mortgage payments on time going forward). Financial consultants can help you determine if this is the right choice for you. Bonus tip: For unbiased advice, seek out consultants who aren’t attached to a particular loan institution.
  4. Learn about free resources in your area. There are many government and not-for-profit resources that can help you navigate the complexities of an impending eviction or foreclosure. Learning what’s available in your specific state and city can save you a lot of headaches and heartaches. Experts with deep knowledge of the intricacies of your state’s laws can point you toward websites, forms, legal counsel, financial experts, and others to either stop an eviction or at least get help with the process along the way.

How To Avoid a Foreclosure

foreclosure

If you’ve already been served an eviction notice, or if you’re facing a potential foreclosure, there are still a few things you can — and should — do right away.

How to stop a foreclosure should always include these crucial things:

  1. Seek legal counsel. It helps to know your rights so that you’re not taken advantage of. However, you’ll also want to prepare the best possible defense in case you need to appear in court. Your landlord, a property management company, or a lender will surely bring an experienced attorney to these proceedings; you’ll stand the best chance by coming with one of your own — or consulting with one in advance.
  2. Consider your options for moving. Even if, understandably, you don’t want to leave, planning ahead can save you some money and anxiety, if worse comes to worse. Your plans might involve staying with friends or family for a while or getting a short-term rental in the area. You might want to get in touch with moving or storage companies and request quotes, just to get a sense of how much it will cost to move and what your options will be.

Knowledge Is Power

It’s stressful and scary facing the possibility of losing your home, but you can take some comfort knowing that there’s an entire process that needs to play out before that happens, and you’ll have a lot of opportunities to try and stop the eviction or foreclosure from progressing before it takes place.

The most powerful tool in your arsenal is knowledge. Understanding the legal processes involved and knowing your rights can mitigate your anxiety — but, more importantly, it can help you prepare the best possible strategy to avoid an eviction or foreclosure altogether.

2023 Study: Majority of Renters Priced Out of Homeownership in 78% of All US Metros

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Key Findings

  • 63% of renters across the biggest U.S. metropolitan areas are priced out of home ownership (up from 61% last year)
  • The majority of renters can’t afford to own a home where they live in 205 out of 260 metros (78%)
  • At least 90% of renters are priced out of home ownership in 16 American metro areas, nine of which are in California
  • In two metropolitan areas, Prescott, AZ and San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA, less than 1% of renters would be able to afford buying and owning a median-priced home
  • Kalamazoo-Portage, MI, Jackson, MI, and Johnstown, PA are the only three metros where more than 80% of renters could afford to own a home

In 2022, a study by Porch, a nationwide home-service company, found 61% of renters in the U.S. were priced out of homeownership, meaning they were not able to afford to buy and own a home in the same city where they rented. 

In 2023, applying that study’s same methodology to the most recent home-owner data resulted in an estimate of 63%. In other words, today, nearly two-thirds of renters can’t afford to buy a home in the metro where they live.

To gain a better understanding of this huge number, we examined housing affordability by comparing renter incomes to home prices using the most recently available data for 260 metropolitan areas in the United States.


Home Prices Have Dropped, Why Aren’t Homes More Affordable?

home ownership study porch hireahelperEven though home prices have been falling for the better part of last year and then continued their decline in 2023, housing affordability hasn’t improved. In fact, things have gotten worse for prospective homeowners over the last year. 

At the end of last year, the National Association of Realtors’ Housing Affordability Index reached its lowest point since 1965. It hasn’t been this hard for a family with an average income to qualify for a mortgage loan on an average-priced home in over six decades.

Why hasn’t a drop in home prices led to greater affordability? 

For starters, mortgage interest rates are at 6.65% according to Freddie Mac — the highest they’ve been since the Great Recession. This means potential mortgage repayments for buyers would be a lot higher than they would have been even just a few years ago.

 

“It hasn’t been this hard for a family with an average income to qualify for a mortgage loan on an average-priced home in over six decades.”

 

Secondly, there aren’t enough affordable starter homes. In part, that’s because there are simply not enough homes for sale in general after a pandemic buying frenzy. On top of that, there is simply put, a lack of cheap new homes. Roughly 63% of all U.S. homes were selling for over $400,000 by the end of 2022.

Finally, there’s the pervasive issue of inflation and the increasing cost of goods, services, and rent, leaving less money in Americans’ pockets. Despite dropping to 6.5% in recent months, it’s still way higher than the pre-pandemic 1-2% rate.

Now that we know more about why housing is less and less affordable, let’s get into where all this leaves American renters wanting to buy a home in 2023.

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Further Out of Reach: The Majority of Renters Can’t Afford To Own a Home in 205 out of 260 Metros

To estimate the percent of renters priced out, we assumed a scenario where a first-time buyer put down 6% of the home value, obtained a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with a 6.65% interest rate (an average rate), and aimed to keep mortgage repayments to a maximum of 30% of the household income, as per the famous Housing and Urban Development guideline.

 

“…in two major U.S. metropolitan areas, the share of renters priced out of home ownership is a staggering 99%!”

 

With current income levels and home prices, this scenario is completely unattainable for the majority of renters in 205 out of 260 metropolitan areas in the United States. That’s in nearly eight out of the ten (78%) most populated areas in America where renters have no realistic chance at home ownership.

 

In the Porch study from 2022, there were 184 metros where home ownership was unaffordable for 50% or more renters living in them. 

This overall increase seems to suggest the affordability crisis isn’t just deepening in areas already struggling with affordable homes, but is actually expanding to more metropolitan areas across the country.

Mission Impossible: In Two Metros, Home Ownership Is Unachievable for 99% of Renters   

Last year’s study uncovered 13 major U.S. metro areas where at least 90% of renters wouldn’t have been able to afford home ownership based on their income. This year, there are 17 of them!

What’s different about this year’s findings, however, is that in two major U.S. metropolitan areas, the share of renters priced out of home ownership is a staggering 99%!

Those areas are San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA and Prescott, AZ, where the home prices are prohibitively high to be affordable for the absolute majority of people who rent in these areas. Homes in San Luis Obispo and the area being unaffordable is nothing new, but affordability dropping in Arizona and Prescott, AZ specifically is something that’s started happening recently, according to local reports.

 

Of the 17 places in the U.S. where the income of 90% of renters would prevent them from being able to afford a home, nine are in California with cities like Los Angeles (94.3%), Salinas, CA (92.9%) and San Diego (92.6%) all with an appearance on the list.

Hawaii and Colorado each have two metros on this list, but, rather surprisingly, so does Charleston-North Charleston, SC, where some 91.6% of renters are priced out of home ownership. Turns out, housing has been too expensive in the area for a while, but the local government does seem to be stepping in and building more affordable homes, according to reports.

The Modest Midwest: Two Michigan Metros Among Three Most Affordable Places for Renters

Like last year, Johnstown, PA leads the pack in terms of affordability of local housing for those on typical renter incomes. Nearly 90% of people who rent in the area earn enough to cope with the costs of home ownership if they were to buy a home in the area.

The only two other metropolitan areas where owning a home without repayments crosses the affordability threshold of 30% of the household income are in Michigan. Those places are Jackson, MI, (11.9%) and Kalamazoo-Portage, MI (13.3%).

Looking at the 10 most affordable areas for renters looking to jump onto a housing ladder without it breaking the bank, five are either in Michigan or Illinois, while a total of three exist in Pennsylvania.

See All the Data for Yourself

To see how affordable homeownership is for renters in your city or metro, check the table below. 


Methodology, Data Sources, Calculations and Assumptions Made

Income levels of renter households and their % of all households in each metropolitan area were taken from the 2022 release of the Annual Social Economic Supplement to the Current Population Survey, as available via Integrated Public Use Microdata Series (IPUMS). Home prices were taken from Zillow.
% of renters “priced out” was calculated as the percentage of renters in each metropolitan area whose income wouldn’t be sufficient to keep potential mortgage repayments to 30% of gross monthly income (Source: United States Department of Housing and Urban Development). 
Mortgage repayments were estimated using the following assumptions:

Illustrations by Daniel Fishel

Moving Vs. Remodeling Your Home

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Whether your tastes have changed or your family is growing, you might find that your current home is no longer meeting your needs. That presents an important decision to make: Should you renovate your current place or move somewhere else?

In light of today’s uncertain real estate market, it’s a choice you should weigh carefully. Here’s what to consider.

The Case for Moving

Of course, one of the biggest things to think about when deciding between moving or remodeling is the cost. The decision you make today can seriously impact your finances for years to come.

The Costs of Moving to a Larger House

a couple looks over a blueprint, notebook, and calculator on a table. Boxes are stacked in the room behind them.

These are the most typical home moving costs.

Real Estate Comission

If you choose to use a real estate agent to sell your current home, you should plan to spend 5%-6% of the sale price in commissions. Usually, the buyer’s agent and the seller’s agent each receive a 2.5%–3% commission, which the seller pays.

New Mortgage Costs

There are also closing costs associated with getting a new mortgage. These typically run 3%-6% of the mortgage amount. Home appraisals, title insurance, and other administrative costs of buying a new home can tack on several thousand dollars more.

 

“As of the fourth quarter of 2022, the average home price of a home sold in the U.S. was $535,800.”

 

Home Repairs and Touch-ups

You may also have to spend some money getting your home ready for sale. For example, you might need to do some repainting and make a few repairs. Andnce you move into your new home, it might need some minor upgrades or new furnishings to fill up extra/larger rooms.

Movers and Relocation

Then there’s the cost of the move itself. Factors such as distance, number of rooms, and type of labor you hire will all impact the cost. According to HireAHelper data between January through May 2022, the average cost of a labor-only move was $418, based on the moves booked through HireAHelper and their partners. Of course, interstate and cross-country moves can cost considerably more.

Real Estate Market Considerations

a real estate "for sale" sign outside of a home with white walls and a tan roof

Home prices experienced a meteoric rise over the past couple of years. And although they’ve leveled off recently, prices are still at record highs.

As of the fourth quarter of 2022, the average home price of a home sold in the U.S. was $535,800. While that means you can probably sell your current house for a great price, it also means you’ll have to spend (or borrow) more for a new one.

 

“The average cost of home remodeling is $49,000, with most remodels costing somewhere between $18,000 and $80,000…”

 

Along with home prices, mortgage rates have also been on the rise. The Federal Reserve raised its rate several times over the past year to combat rampant inflation, which has impacted the cost of borrowing considerably. Strong consumer spending and increasing housing costs have also contributed to rising rates.

As of February 16, the average interest rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage sits at 6.32%, while the average rate for a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage is 5.51%. In other words, this is where you would do the math to compare how much you’d spend in additional interest over the life of your loan versus the cost of doing any renovations.

Consider the Impact a Move May Have on Your Lifestyle and Any Family Members

A family with a toddler plays with blocks in front of stacked moving boxes

Beyond the financial cost, it’s also important to consider the time and emotional cost of a move. This can be particularly challenging for kids in your family.

Children

Young children can experience a range of emotions while moving. However, it’s not uncommon for them to feel sad, anxious, or angry, as moving can bring about a sense of loss as they leave behind familiar people, places, and routines, especially if they are moving to a new city or state.

With that in mind, understand that young children may experience developmental regression during the moving process. For example, they may revert to behaviors such as bed-wetting or thumb-sucking as a way of coping with stress.

Again, every child is different, and yours may not react strongly to the idea of moving. In fact, they may even be excited by the idea (plus, there are things you can do to help kids with the transition). Only you will be able to evaluate your child’s stress management capabilities and decide whether moving is worth it.

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Teens and Young Adults

Teens or young adults in the family may also struggle with the transition, as moving might mean leaving behind close friends or romantic partners. It can take time for teenagers and young adults to establish new social relationships, and they may feel isolated or lonely during the transition.

Moving can disrupt their education, too, as they may need to transfer to a new school or college. This also means they may struggle to adjust to new academic expectations, curriculum, and teaching styles.

You Own Emotional Health

Don’t downplay your own feelings and stress levels. Moving is a lot of work, and a major time and financial commitment. You’ll need to think about whether you — and your partner, if you have one — have the mental bandwidth to deal with a move and everything that comes with it, including changing jobs, making new friends, and more.

Attachment to Your Own Home

And don’t underestimate how attached your family may be to your current house. It may be where siblings share fond memories of growing up together or spending time with a grandparent. Forcing family members to give up their beloved home could cause hurt feelings, so consider how moving might affect your family dynamics.

Consider the Life Logistics

a woman packs up her desk in preparation to leave her job

Moving also has an impact on your lifestyle in general. If you move, it’s important to think about how certain aspects of your life could change, for better or worse.

How Will It Impact Your Career?

Obviously, moving can significantly impact your career if you have to find a new job! The job market may be different in the new location, with different industries and job opportunities. If you are not moving for a new job or with your old job, it will take time to find a job that fits your skillset and experience.

Moving can also mean leaving behind professional connections, mentors, and colleagues. It might take some time to build a new network in the new location. Plus, salaries and wages can vary widely by location; you may need to adjust your expectations, or negotiate a new salary to match the cost of living in the new location.

How Much Do You Like Your Current Life Setup?

How do you like your current neighborhood and how would a new one compare? You’ll need to weigh factors such as,

  • Safety
  • Schools
  • Access to public transportation
  • Walkability
  • Entertainment
  • Cultural amenities

Does the area you live in still serve your needs? Does your potential new city offer the right vibe?

The cost of living in the neighborhoods you’re considering is also key. This includes factors such as housing costs, property taxes, and utilities. Consider whether the cost of living — either at home or somewhere else — is within your budget.

The Case for Remodeling

Remodeling may inherently be cheaper, but don’t forget that remodeling your home also takes time, money, mental fortitude, and sacrifice.

The Costs of Remodeling

a man and a woman look over a kitchen in preparation for remodeling it

Even though the worst of the pandemic economics are behind us, supply chain issues and labor shortages still plague many industries. And that could impact the cost of a remodel. (Building materials have been slightly increasing in price, for instance.)

So how much should you budget for remodeling in 2023? The average cost of home remodeling is $49,000, with most remodels costing somewhere between $18,000 and $80,000, according to Hunker.

How much do home projects cost by foot?

When broken down by the size of the project, smaller renovations tend to cost more per square foot. A whole-house remodel typically costs between $15 and $60 per square foot. A kitchen or bath remodel can run $100 to $250 per square foot, while putting an addition on your home is around $90 to $200 per square foot.

 

“Your family may need to adjust their schedules or make alternative living arrangements during the remodeling process.”

 

Budgeting

high angle shot of a man and woman on a couch looking over documents on a table such as blueprints and paint swatches along with calculator and a pen

it’s crucial to set up a realistic budget and stick to it. That includes a contingency plan for any unexpected (i.e., expensive) issues.

Start by determining the exact scope of your remodeling project. This could include changes to the layout, new fixtures, or updated materials. Once you have a clear picture of the work involved, you can start to estimate the costs.

Next, research the costs of materials, labor, and any permits or licenses you may need for the project. Get multiple quotes from contractors or suppliers to get an accurate estimate.

Set and stick to the budget once you have an estimate. Determine the maximum amount you can afford to spend, and set aside a portion of the budget for unexpected expenses. Also, decide which expenses are most important and allocate the budget accordingly. For example, you may want to put more money towards high-quality materials, while reducing costs on non-essential features.

Use a spreadsheet or budgeting software to ensure that you stay within your budget. Also, think about the hidden costs of renovating that could impact your budget. For instance, will you need to eat out more often while your kitchen is out of commission? If you work from home, will you have a designated, quiet workspace, or will you need to rent a coworking space?

See prices for local moving labor. Read real customer reviews. Easily book your help online.

Creating a Living Timeline

Remodeling projects can vary in duration, depending on the scope of the work. More than likely, however, remodeling is going to disrupt your family’s schedule, especially if the project lasts for an extended period. Your family may need to adjust their schedules or make alternative living arrangements during the remodeling process.

To minimize the impact of remodeling on family schedules, it’s important to plan ahead and communicate with everyone. For instance, you might want to schedule work during summer vacation from school or after an important project at work is completed. If necessary, you might need to temporarily move into a family member or friend’s home, or even a hotel, to minimize the disruption.

Hiring the Best Professional Team

a man and a woman speak to a contractor wearing blue overalls about their home remodel

Next, you’ll need to hire the right team to get the work done promptly, correctly, and within budget. One option is to go through a trusted family member or friend. While this is a good way to get a referral, or even perhaps a discount, keep in mind that the relationship could be strained if there are any disagreements or problems.

Alternatively, you could hire a professional team with the help of a platform such as Angi, Houzz, or Porch. Keep in mind that your budget and timeline may impact who you can hire.

Getting Permits and Permissions

Finally, don’t forget to make sure you have all the right permits in place, which vary by city. Minor improvements to the interior, such as replacing countertops or installing hard flooring don’t need a permit, but major renovations such as building detached structures (like a garage), cutting holes for doors and windows, and making major plumbing or electrical changes likely will.

You can find out exactly which permits are needed and apply for them through your local municipal office. Be sure to keep your paperwork organized in case you need to show proof you were approved to do the work.

Making Your Final Decision

Choosing whether to remodel your home or move into a new one is a big decision that can impact your finances, mental health, and overall quality of life. Both options have their pros and cons — you’ll need to carefully weigh your priorities and discuss each option with all the members of your family. After all, everyone’s along for the ride.

7 Technologies That Changed How People Move

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There was a time when literally the only way to connect to a moving company was to call their landline, leave a message on their answering machine, and wait for a call back. And if your couch didn’t end up fitting in your new house, you just had to deal with it and check it off your inventory list with a literal pencil. This wasn’t even that long ago.

Fortunately, times have changed, and technology has improved the way we find a new home and move into it. Here are seven ways technology has forever changed the moving industry.

1. Tour your new home without having to actually be there

This used to be fantasy, but now it’s almost an expected feature. And it’s getting crazier.

Virtual reality (VR) technology has totally changed the home buying process. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Zillow saw a 191% increase in sellers creating 3D home tours. With the help of technologies like 360 and 3D professional photography, people routinely see a home in its entirety before ever setting foot on the property. 

360 photography

matterport
Matterport setup for home sellers

Virtual tour software platforms like Matterport allow photographers to photograph, tag, and measure properties they want to show off online. A link is generated and uploaded to the listing on the real estate company website, which can be sent to any interested party. This is awesome if you’re a buyer; you can take the time to do a virtual walk-through of the home you are thinking of buying without ever stepping foot inside.

Drone photography and videography

Drone photography and videos have impacted real estate almost as much as any other business. Not only are you able to clearly see a home and yard from any screen in the world, but you can also check out the neighbors’ lawns, roads and even alleys in the surrounding area. This gives a virtual buyer much more context into the neighborhood and surrounding areas when deciding whether or not to make an offer.

AR and VR technology 

Augmented reality (AR) and VR use similar technology in very different ways. Where VR uses headsets to give the impression you are somewhere else, AR adds to what you can already see! It can work with the camera and apps on your phone to overlay information literally on top of what you see in front of you (like in Star Trek, though maybe not quite as cool yet).

AR Real Estate
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZB3O0WSCP0k

For homebuyers, this means realtors can often facilitate highly realistic virtual walkthroughs of spaces for cross-country buyers. Homes can also be staged using AR to reduce actual staging costs and logistics. In addition, design apps sometimes use VR and AR technology to help you virtually “move in” and decorate your space so you have a plan before your actual move.

2. Scope out everything about a neighborhood from the comfort of home

In our current data-driven and highly social world, there are many ways to research the safety, functionality, and friendliness of an area so you know which neighborhoods are most ideal for your move.

Neighborhood accessibility 

With basic apps like Google Maps, you can get real-time data on the roads, restaurants, and shops in your new neighborhood. You can use it to map traffic flow on routes you will need to travel most like to the school for drop off or work. Learn the best routes and the best time of day to travel them to reduce traffic-related headaches — hopefully.

 

“At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Zillow saw a 191% increase in sellers creating 3D home tours.”

 

Crime statistics

Learn about the safety of your new neighborhood with apps and websites like Citizen and City Protect. City Protect offers police reports, public record requests, and more. Some features of both apps are free. Family Watchdog is a free app that provides publicly available information about sex offenders in your area. (Be warned that there is a fee for detailed reports through the app.)

Neighborhood vibe apps

Believe it or not, there is more to a neighborhood than traffic routes and crime stats! Neighborhood Scout is a subscription-based app that focuses on real estate in a particular area and provides a profile using 600 characteristics. 

AreaVibes is an app that has crime stats, but that also provides a big picture of your future neighborhood based on seven main factors: crime rate, amenities, cost of living, education, employment, housing, and user ratings. It then compares that against a national average to give you a composite picture of your potential new neighborhood. It even offers a custom search function that sets it apart from similar apps, which allows users to access the information most relevant to them.

3. The rise of public reviews for professional movers 

Consumer reviews have become increasingly more social in recent years with the ubiquity of Facebook, Yelp and others.

hireahelper mover reviews
Public reviews on HireAHelper.com

Local moving companies have been impacted by this change tremendously. Almost more than any other type of old-school business model, movers used to exist on the strength of personal recommendations; but now that info is available at scale, and with the client in the driver’s seat. One hour of research is enough to skim reviews of 10 or more service providers that could do your move, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Sites like Yelp, Facebook, and HireAHelper shed light on the movers that make moving day actually manageable.

Note: Anyone can leave a review on Yelp or social media, but it’s worth noting that HireAHelper verifies all reviews, meaning that all public reviews are guaranteed to have actually, you know… really happened!

4. Accurate (and free!) moving quotes online, without needing a walk-through

Newer moving companies like HireAHelper and Simple Moving Labor have streamlined the quote process that your grandparents used to use.

Your inner introvert will be happy to hear you can get free moving quotes entirely online these days. Virtual quoting allows you to enter the basic information of your move online and instantly get moving quotes for free (plus, you even get to read the reviews for each mover). 

See prices for movers by the hour—instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

 

We especially don’t miss the part where you cross your fingers for a quote that doesn’t break the bank after the company is already at your house… who has time to start over at that point?

If you have any doubts or concerns about your quote, HireAHelper can quickly ballpark your moving needs over the phone with just a couple of questions (not a whole freaking tour). On top of that, many movers offer live video chats over Facetime or ZOOM to ensure they have a clear picture of your needs so there are no expensive surprises at the end of your move. (This practice has become far more common since COVID.)

5. Design your new place from your phone

vr app
Homestyler

Many buyers spend hours planning where their furniture will go in their new home, as well as what new décor they’ll need to buy to fit into a different (and often bigger) space.

Smartphones have made this step substantially easier, especially for those moving cross-state or cross-country. There are apps like Planner 5D and Homestyler that allow you to scan a room with your smartphone to save its dimensions and openings. Add in windows with the swipe of your finger, and you have a virtual mockup for your new life.

Not only does this allow movers to skip the tape measure pressure during their inspection, but it also can save precious time and back strain that used to come with arranging and rearranging. Even better, you can access room designs while you’re out and about furniture shopping!

6. Virtual checklists (and “checklist services”)

Virtual moving checklists like Porch’s Home Assistant allow you to ditch your moving to-do list and track all of your pending items in one shareable dashboard, from ordering home insurance to filing your change of address form.

porch home assistant
Porch.com’s “Home Assistant” works like a personalized moving checklist service

Not only does this mean no more paper to-do lists that will inevitably get lost, but it also means there are fewer chances for crucial steps to slip through the cracks. (Nobody likes arriving at their new place just to realize that they forgot to get their internet set up.)

7. GPS trackers on moving trucks

GPS technology has been around for a long time, which is why it’s become easier than ever for movers and moving companies to buy inexpensive trackers to avoid losing track of valuables, entire boxes, and even the moving trucks themselves.

For individuals and families booking their own moving truck, a GPS can help ensure a thief can’t run off with your expensive rental and disappear. You can also use more localized Bluetooth technology like Tile to tag boxes that have valuables in them in case they get misplaced within range.

Not to mention, companies now provide more realistic updates for moving companies that are providing long-distance moving services. Can you believe people used to stand around and wait for weeks for their stuff to arrive? Yikes.

Los Angeles Real Estate Guide 2021: Neighborhood by Neighborhood

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Hello and welcome to another episode of “You Can Live Anywhere”! I’m your host, Alexis Rhiannon, a 30-something freelance writer who was reminded by the 2020 pandemic that she could do her job from literally anywhere with an internet connection.

Last time, I explored the absurdity that is the 2021 Portland housing market. This time, I’m putting together a home-buying guide for moving to Los Angeles.

As you may be aware, I already live in LA, but I currently rent a West Hollywood one-bedroom I’ve lived in with my boyfriend for just two-and-a-half years. During that time, we’ve already paid $53,400 in rent, a number that’s breaking my brain as efficiently as it’s pushing me toward the goal of homeownership. I figured I’d see what the real estate landscape is like right here where I’m already living, and where plenty of people are looking right now.

An Overview of the Los Angeles Real Estate Market in 2021

Jeffrey Saad

I reached out to Jeffrey Saad, a real estate agent with two decades of experience, a professional chef and host of The Cooking Channel’s “United Tastes of America”, and an extremely generous resource.

He was kind enough to (virtually) walk me through LA’s hottest neighborhoods, including the always-popular classics and some surprising up-and-coming neighborhoods. I also got a snapshot of pricing for Summer 2021, and beyond.

Some facts about the 2021 LA real-estate market:

  • The Los Angeles area covers a whopping 490 square miles of real estate, which is a huge chunk of property to try to get your brain around—Saad has been at it for twenty years and says he’s still learning new things about it
  • Los Angeles has about a month and a half of inventory right now, which means that if properties stopped hitting the market today, there’d be nothing to sell in about six weeks. (As a reminder, six months of inventory is considered a balance between a buyer’s and seller’s market, so the LA market remains strongly tilted toward sellers)
  • That number is still slightly better than Portland’s jaw-dropping .45 months of inventory, as LA properties are spending a bit more time on the market; Los Angeles properties spend 65 days on the market, on average
  • We’re likely to be living in this dip for a while, as there’s very little new construction right now; Saad tells us it’s hard for builders to even turn a profit these days

But don’t let those facts and figures get you down! Saad also notes that for as expensive and competitive as the LA market may seem right now, it’s still a great value among the titan cities.

The average cost per square foot in the San Francisco and New York areas is right around $2,000, which leaves LA sitting pretty at about $1,000 per square foot.

 

“Los Angeles properties spend 65 days on the market, on average.”

 

Sure, that sounds incredibly high, but again, this is a sprawling tract of land we’re talking about. High-end stuff skews the numbers big time, which means there might be a spot for you in the LA sun. 

To help you out, I’ll break the numbers down for you in some of the best areas.

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

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Where People Want to Live in Los Angeles in 2021

When I examined the prices of Portland homes in 2021, I listed neighborhoods by the average amount of days on the market per town, as well as the average buy and sell price in 2021. That made sense for Portland because, well, it’s basically three times as hectic as the LA market.

Because homes are sitting on the LA market for longer, and because the sprawl of LA is so large it strongly impacts averages (with the higher-market stuff frequently seeing price drops before selling, which isn’t often reflected in the data), we decided to break down the list price per square foot, which is more useful of a metric for Los Angeles.

Pacific Palisades

Pacific Palisades

Median List Price: $5,787,500

Price Per Square Foot: $1,230

Nestled between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean is what Saad calls the “crown jewel” of the LA market.

You’ve got your beach access, you’ve got your picturesque hiking and biking trails, you’ve got your breathtaking views in every direction, and you’ve got your multi-million-dollar homes to match. Almost entirely residential, the Pacific Palisades features large private homes popular with wealthy families and outdoorsy folks alike. And while it’s not an area I see in my future, it’s been at the top of a lot of lists for a while now. It seems destined to stay there.

Brentwood

brentwood california

Median List Price: $5,675,000

Per Square Foot: $1,221

A quick journey east and slightly north from the coastline brings you to Brentwood, another affluent enclave and sought-after ZIP Code.

Prices are very similar to Pacific Palisades, but the texture of the neighborhood is slightly different. Brentwood is still a quiet community, with tree-lined streets stretching up into the hills, but it also features some restaurants and boutiques where you might just spot one of the area’s many celebrity residents.

Mar Vista

mar vista california
Gerez real estate team

Median List Price: $1,599,500

Per Square Foot: $1,021

Southeast from Brentwood, but still solidly on the westside, is Mar Vista—the first of these neighborhoods I could actually imagine a working millennial like myself living in (were I absolutely stacked with cash, that is). Saad referred to it as “the new Venice,” noting that the area just west of the 405 is “on fire” right now.

Of late in 2021, the community has become popular with 30-somethings like myself, drawn there by the nearby beaches, an excellent park, and trendy cocktail and dessert establishments. 

Moving far away?

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West Hollywood / Hollywood Hills

West Hollywood California

Median List Price: $2,608,125

Per Square Foot: $1,045

Saad warned me when I started this project that LA is one of the most dynamic and difficult-to-define markets out there, and the West Hollywood/Hollywood Hills area is the perfect example.

This area stretches across four separate ZIP Codes (!) and contains everything from the coveted Bird Streets, to my own humble one-bedroom in the rapidly-shrinking Little Odessa area. Clearly, it’s hard to make generalizations. But West Hollywood is generally pretty popular with young industry professionals and artists, and it features progressive politics, popular restaurants and shopping, and an intimidatingly hot nightlife.

Studio City

studio city california

Median List Price: $2,547,499

Per Square Foot: $833

We’re going to continue marching eastward, but first, we’re jaunting further north to Studio City in the San Fernando Valley—basically just across Laurel Canyon, from where we just were above.

Saad said this neighborhood is hot now, has always been hot, and is going to stay hot. It roughly offers a 50% discount on regular LA rates, if you’re willing to add an extra 20 to 30 minutes to your commute. Not a bad deal, when you consider all it has to offer: suburban quiet with gorgeous views, surprisingly varied eateries, and the lowest price per square foot we’ve seen yet (but as these things go, probably not for long).

Sherman Oaks / Encino / Tarzana

sherman oaks california

Median List Price: $2,512,000

Per Square Foot: $691

No, your eyes don’t deceive you! This is three whole neighborhoods; a huge swath of land just east of Studio City. But Saad lumped them together for our conversation to prove a point. When you’re predicting the movement of the market through Los Angeles, there are only two ways you can realistically go at this point: east or north.

As prices rise literally everywhere, further out neighborhoods are going to start rising with the tide, and Sherman Oaks, Encino and Tarzana are certainly a part of this trend. Saad is even seeing prices rising in Valley Village, an area bordered by freeways that had previously stayed below the radar. (This might be a good place to buy right now, if you have a chunk of change lying around.)

Silver Lake

silver lake california

Median List Price: $1,369,500

Per Square Foot: $784

Skip back across the hills and continue east, and you’ll hit Silver Lake, an exceedingly cool-kid neighborhood that’s really having a moment right now. (I feel like people ask about LA neighborhoods as compared with New York City neighborhoods all the time, and this is basically your Williamsburg.) Young, hip celebrities get spotted here all the time, and there are funky coffee shops, chic thrift stores, and restaurants I follow on Instagram as far as the eye can see.

Echo Park

echo park california

Median List Price: $1,319,000

Per Square Foot: $693

Nudged up against Silver Lake, Echo Park is architecturally and scenically quite similar to its slightly bougier cousin to the west. (This is a fact you see reflected in the price per square foot.) The area has a great nightlife, with popular wine bars and music venues, and it basically has the vibe of being a great place to bring a date—or to bring yourself every day, because you own a house there.

Lincoln Heights

lincoln heights california

Median List Price: $862,500

Per Square Foot: $746

Okay here’s where I really want you taking notes, because this feels like one of those realtor scoops everyone’s always chasing. In the same way that Echo Park is the new Silver Lake, Saad says that Lincoln Heights is the new Echo Park (in the good ways and the bad).

As one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, the area is steeped in history, with lovely old buildings and tight-knit neighborhoods. But while populations currently skew young and diverse, those statistics are likely to shift again as the area gains popularity and the long-time residents get priced out.

El Sereno

el sereno california
commercial cafe

Median List Price: $798,000

Per Square Foot: $623

Right next to Lincoln Heights is another up-and-comer, coming in at the lowest price per square foot on this entire list. El Sereno is currently a largely Latinx neighborhood with a long and storied history and a quick commute to downtown Los Angeles—which you should shorten to “DTLA” if you want to Blend In. El Sereno also has many affordable (and delicious) restaurants.

Wilshire Park

frank llyod wright wilshire park
William Webber House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in Wilshire Park
larchmontbuzz.com

Median List Price: $2,795,000

Per Square Foot: $888

We’re jumping elsewhere on the map now, letting DTLA slingshot us back west to a compact little neighborhood in Central Los Angeles known as Wilshire Park.

It’s an area inhabited mostly by renters, but its high walkability score makes it an appealing destination for buyers as well. Saad spoke of the area’s cool, old architecture—specifically colonial revival—and emphasized the size of the houses in particular: “It’s a lot of home for the money,” he told me. “Big homes on big lots.”


Los Angeles is—in a nutshell—a pricey place with a lot of options that have a lot of personality.

My personal takeaway from this list is that Los Angeles is probably not where I’m ultimately going to buy—at least not now. But it does hold some pretty undeniable opportunities and amenities for those who are super-wealthy (I mean, let’s be honest), or for those looking for a new investment property. I wish you all the best as I continue my personal search.

Portland Real Estate Guide 2021: Neighborhood by Neighborhood

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Like many millennials, I’ve exclusively shopped for rentals in the past, so I don’t know the first thing about the housing market—in my current city or any other. But since my long-term boyfriend and I are living that “DINK” life (“Dual Income, No Kids”), we started wondering just how much money we’d need to bring to the table and what we’d need to know in order to make the leap to homeownership in Portland.

But here’s the real question: where should we be house hunting in Portland, what types of housing we should consider, and when should we take the plunge?

To answer those questions, I turned to Jo Lavey, a principal broker at John L. Scott Real Estate. She gave me an inside look at the hottest Portland neighborhoods, the obstacles that have been tripping up aspiring buyers, and advice for navigating a housing market that’s churning through inventory at truly unprecedented levels. And I, in turn, am giving it all to you.

Here’s your 2021 guide to moving to Portland, Oregon.

Some Portland home-buying statistics that blew my actual mind

A quick word to the wise before I get too far into this: based on everything I heard from Jo, this really is not the best time to be looking for a single-family home in Portland. (Or many other cities in the United States, to be frank.) As of March 31, 2021, average sale prices in Portland have increased by 16.6%, from $461,600 to $538,200, and they show no signs of slowing.

Here are some other stats Jo shared with me that had my eyebrows vanishing into my hairline:

  • At the time of this writing, the Portland market has just .45 months of inventory for sale, meaning that if no new properties were listed, there would be nothing left to sell within about two weeks. (For context, Jo told me that a market with six months of inventory used to be considered a balance between a buyer’s and a seller’s market. So it’s a seller’s market in a serious, almost unprecedented way.)
  • This trend is predicted to continue for the next three to five years, largely due to construction constraints. Portland has an urban growth boundary which limits the amount of land for new construction of homes in favor of maintaining farmland. With very little space to work with, builders have had to rely on in-fill lots (splitting larger lots and building vertically on smaller lots) or spreading out into the suburbs. 
  • Additionally, new construction on multi-family homes in Portland’s Multnomah County is down 70%. In 2013, far more apartments were built than single-family homes, and now the previous inhabitants of those spaces are aging into buying single-family homes.
  • Oregon has been in the top ten states that people are migrating to for three years now, with many coming from California—specifically San Francisco and LA. (Oopsies, guess I’m not so original after all.)

In case those stats have you as intimidated as they have me, there is some good news. Average rents are at $1,500, which is a 2% decrease year-over-year, and condominiums aren’t seeing the same surge in pricing or popularity as single-family homes. (At least for now.) While houses are selling at an average of 5% above list price after a low of four days and a high of 14 days on the market, condos have been selling at or below list price, after lingering on the market for an average of 48 days.

 

“As of March 31, 2021, average sale prices in Portland have increased by 16.6%, from $461,600 to $538,200, and they show no signs of slowing.”

 

If you’re me, this sure is looking like the moment to consider purchasing a condo while I wait out the market. But you’re you—so if you’re absolutely dead set on becoming a Portland homeowner in 2021 and have the cash in hand to back it up, these are the hot neighborhoods that everyone has their eyes on.

Where People Want to Live in Portland

The city is divided into directional quadrants: north, south, east, and west, and then further divided into more specific areas (it’ll be clear below), which is how I’ll lay out this list. The following is a three-month snapshot of properties sold between January and March of 2021, and the pricing is an average cost for a three-bedroom, two-bathroom single-family home.

Northeast

Laurelhurst

Laurelhurst
crystaltrulove.com

Average List Price: $906,225 

Average Sold Price: $922,304 (102% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 16

Mostly residential and with its own truly gorgeous, historical landmark of a park, Laurelhurst is snuggled up to other nearby neighborhoods like Hollywood, which offer schools, restaurants, and shopping, so residents get the best of both worlds.

Irvington

Irvington
Adam Fous Photography

Average List Price: $838,455 

Average Sold Price: $844,412 (101% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 15

Brimming with historic charm, Irvington’s location makes it extremely convenient for commuters. The leafy neighborhood has multiple public transportation options within blocks, and easy access to I-84 and I-5 on-ramps.

Sabin

Sabin
airbnb.com

Average List Price: $814,919 

Average Sold Price: $841,583 (103% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 10

Right next door to Irvington is Sabin, its slightly more youthful neighbor—great for young professionals. In addition to the old world homes are more recent builds and modern restaurants, and the area is abutted by the ultra-cool Alberta Arts District to the north.

Parkrose

Parkrose
Homes.com

Average List Price: $460,463 

Average Sold Price: $460,219 (99.5% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 7

Parkrose prices have yet to soar as high as its northeast neighbors, because crime-wise, it isn’t the safest option on this list. That said, it has its own dedicated school district with an elementary, middle, and high school, and the area is becoming more revitalized by the day.

 

“Average rents are at $1,500, which is a 2% decrease year-over-year, and condominiums aren’t seeing the same surge in pricing or popularity as single-family homes.”

 

Southeast

Woodstock

Woodstock
soldbysagato.com

Average List Price: $602,894 

Average Sold Price: $626,650 (104% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 4

Considered one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Portland, Woodstock has its own adorable little town center and farmer’s market. Plus, it’s steps away from nearby Reed College, making it a popular area with students.

Sellwood/Westmoreland

sellwood
sellwoodmoreland.com

Average List Price: $677,421 

Average Sold Price: $708,571 (105% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 5

Built along the flank of the Willamette River, the cobbled-together neighborhood that is Sellwood/Westmoreland is its own self-sustaining community. It features local grocery stores, food trucks, coffee shops, and even Oaks Park—a roller rink and theme park that features in many of my happiest childhood memories. (As well as the TV show “Shrill”, which is potentially more relevant to your interests than my personal history.)

Montavilla

montavilla

Average List Price: $462,411 

Average Sold Price: $488,429 (106% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 6

Named one of the country’s “top ten neighborhoods you need to visit” by Lonely Planet in 2017, Montavilla has a lot to offer. Namely, the historic Academy Theater, where second-run tickets cost just $4, as well as craft cocktail bars, microbreweries, antique shops, and quirky boutiques.

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Mt. Tabor

Mt. Tabor
reddit.com

Average List Price: $695,221 

Average Sold Price: $723,077 (106% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 5

Built atop an extinct volcano (!), Mt. Tabor is perched high above the rest of the city, offering breathtaking views of downtown. The area has its own 200-acre park featuring miles of biking and running trails, making it a dream destination for anyone craving an active, outdoorsy lifestyle within reach of the city.

Southwest

Multnomah

multnomah
statesmanjournal.com

Average List Price: $641,245 

Average Sold Price: $641,350 (100% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 11

A quaint and artsy village nestled in the heart of Portland, Multnomah boasts the kinds of shop-lined streets you might have thought only existed in Christmas Hallmark movies: bookstores, toy shops, sidewalk cafes, and the massive Gabriel Park.

Hillsdale

hillsdale
roblevy.com

Average List Price: $687,450 

Average Sold Price: $707,450 (102% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 6

I grew up between here and nearby Raleigh Hills, which is how I can tell you that Hillsdale is extremely family-friendly, with great schools, some excellent restaurants, and walkability. Plus a suburban, residential feel that belies the short distance to the city center.

Vermont Hills

vermont hills
portlandrealestateblog.com

Average List Price: $579,257 

Average Sold Price: $624,429 (108% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 6

Just west of Hillsdale is Vermont Hills, which if anything has an even more impressive school district — and even fewer businesses. If you’re looking for a quiet, park-filled area to raise a family or work from home, you couldn’t do much better than Vermont Hills. But consider looking elsewhere if the traditional amenities of a big city are important to you.

North

St. Johns

st. johns bridge
steveschwindt.com

Average List Price: $457,125 

Average Sold Price: $479,813 (105% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 8

At the convergence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers sits St. Johns, rife with excellent antique shops, beloved coffee roasters, and even a floating home community. The neighborhood is slightly isolated and undeniably odd (I mean that in the best way), but if you’re someone who enjoys a unique, small-town vibe, you’ll feel right at home.

Arbor Lodge

arbor lodge
farrellrealty.com

Average List Price: $620,325 

Average Sold Price: $618,725 (100% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 26

Nudged up right against the MAX line – it’s Portland’s light rail system, standing for “Metropolitan Air Express” – living in Arbor Lodge allows for easy access to downtown. Or you can stick close to home and take advantage of the area’s excellent grocery stores, bike shops, or enjoy an evening of live music and pub trivia.

Northwest

Alphabet District & Kings Heights

Alphabet District & Kings Heights
portlandrealestateblog.com

Average List Price: $1,121,996 

Average Sold Price: $1,122,196 (100% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 12

As you can probably tell from the prices, we’ve entered the always red-hot downtown area, so hold onto your butts (and grab your wallets). Everything you could possibly want as far as restaurants, nightlife, and shopping is at your fingertips, plus the Willamette waterfront, Forest Park, and the Portland Zoo. So yes, you’re going to pay for the privilege of having all this bounty in one place.


What if I can’t afford literally any of that, but I still want to buy?

Great question, Alexis Rhiannon. First of all, you could look for smaller houses and hope to get lucky. Or, for you and anyone else in your same boat, I’m gonna drop some condo pricing in here before we go our separate ways.

Average Prices of Condos in the Portland Area

Northwest

Average List Price: $460,386

Average Sold Price: $452,005 (98% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 78

Southeast*

Average List Price: $341,043

Average Sold Price: $343,878 (101% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 74

Southwest**

Average List Price: $332,795 

Average Sold Price: $332,833 (100% of listing)

Average Days on Market: 18

**In both cases, Jo pulled data for properties closer into the city center; prices are likely to be lower as you get further out.

Other things to bear in mind with Portland real-estate

Cash offers are obviously king in this cuckoo market, but since the majority of places are going above listing, I recommend you factor that in if you’re getting a loan. Once you’re approved, consider mentally cutting your budget by $25,000 or so, so that if you really fall in love with a place, you have the funds to put in a compelling offer and downpayment even as the price creeps up. (Rates are going up at a rate of 1% per month, according to Jo. ????)

Overall, $500,000 and a strong stomach should get you something in most any neighborhood you’re interested in in Portland. (Just be aware that a cramped one-bedroom does count as “something” in this case.)

If you’re coming in with $350,000 or under, your best bet is going to be a condo or a townhome, which won’t appreciate as quickly as a single-family home, but that can at least serve as a place to land while you wait for things to calm down… we hope.

Best Cities for Bringing Up Adventurous Kids

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Hearken back to the days of yore when you were just a young ‘un. What was your favorite thing to do? Children love thrilling experiences and the novelty of trying something new—and it’s good for their brain. We explore the importance of childhood adventures and point out a few great cities that rate very well on key measures of adventure.

Why are adventures important in childhood?

Adventures teach your child about themselves and the world they live in. It helps them expand their minds, deepen their understanding, and gain empathy.

Children are constantly taking in stimuli, and adventuring, i.e., playing, exploring the unknown. This is crucial for providing a variety of novel experiences that help children develop into curious, well-rounded people. 

Adventure helps kids learn resilience, develop independent thinking, and understand what they’re capable of. Children who explore through adventurous play gain new social and behavioral skills as well as overcome challenges—all of which provide them with a sense of self-advocacy and confidence.

What kinds of adventures are good for kids?

Any and all of them! Children need challenging and fun experiences to help them grow, and really, no matter where you live, there’s no shortage of exciting adventures to share with your kids. Things you find old-hat—like a trip through the drive-thru car wash or hauling some stuff to the dump—may be brand-new and wondrous to them. 

Outdoor adventures: Instill a love of nature in your kids. Take them hiking, biking, picnicking, climbing, canoeing, stargazing, swimming, bug-catching, snorkeling, or whatever outdoor adventures you, yourself enjoy. Being out-of-doors improves your child’s chances of future health and success. They get sunshine exposure that gives them the vitamin D they need for healthy bones and a robust immune system. They learn to take some risks, which gives them confidence and courage. And hopefully, they learn to appreciate—and protect—our natural world.  

Educational adventures: In early childhood, small brains around a million neural connections every single second—far more than at any other time in life. These connections are formed through their experiences, and the type and quality of stimulation they get during these years helps determine which connections develop. Taking the kids to the children’s museum or your favorite science, history, natural history, or art museum, fills their little brains with knowledge.  

Culinary adventures: Children with an appetite for culinary adventures are sure to love trying new cuisines. Encourage their bold palate with foods they haven’t tried before. Hit up a new restaurant or food truck every so often, and devote a day a week to cooking new foods. 

Artistic adventures: Have a burgeoning Picasso in your midst? Check out nearby museums, and look for art shows in your area. Get your young art lover involved in the worlds of painting, sculpture, crafting, music, moviemaking, theatre, or dance. 

Travel adventures: Mountains, deserts, and oceans, oh my! If your kid has an insatiable wanderlust, they’ll love seeing new places and novel landscapes. Hit the road for trips to national parks, famous landmarks, and big cities. Encourage them to learn a second (or third) language. 

Thrill adventures: Even Evel Knievel was a kid once. Young thrill-seekers will get a kick out of amusement parks, white-water rafting, and climbing walls. Risky play—with supervision—boosts kids’ confidence and risk perception, and it reduces their chances of developing fears the could hold them back in life.

Backyard/at-home/playground adventures: You don’t have to leave your home — or even your neighborhood — to encourage your child’s adventurous side. Imaginative play, backyard treasure hunts, and allowing your child to take risks are ways to raise an adventurous kid right in the backyard.

What experts say about nurturing adventure—no matter where you live

Whether you’re isolated in rural Nebraska or locked in the concrete jungle of New York City, it’s possible to instill a sense of adventure in your offspring. Ann Pleshette Murphy, the author of The Secret of Play, lists five things parents should do if they want to raise an adventurous kid:

Create a safe environment. Your child will feel safe exploring and adventuring if they know you’re not going to get mad at them for taking risks and testing limits. Don’t yell, stay positive while they try new things, and be consistent and honest. Most importantly, display affection—hug ‘em, cuddle ‘em, and listen to everything they want to tell you. 

Let kids explore. It’s a knee-jerk reaction to say, “no” when your kid asks you to do something potentially risky or messy, like trying to cut their apple into slices with a knife or mixing flour with food dye just to see what happens. Instead of saying no automatically, let them try new things (with supervision, of course) so they experiment, problem-solve, and learn new skills. 

Hold back when your kid gets hurt. When a child falls and scrapes their hands, they immediately look to the adults around them for a reaction. Most of the time, if you don’t freak out, they don’t freak out. If your child gets hurt, wait for the reaction. If no tears are forthcoming, pretend like it didn’t happen. It might not be easy, but it’ll teach your sweet baby physical literacy and resilience. 

Accept all types of adventurousness. Your child’s idea of adventure might be different from the kind you enjoyed as a kid. Maybe you’ve got a shy kid who’s dipping their toes in the unknown by going to a big birthday party—that’s an adventure! Or your kid likes making artistic messes out of play-doh and water, an adventure in texture and color. Some children lean toward physical adventurousness—the fearless kid that swings fast and climbs high and nearly gives you heart failure every single day. These are all valid ways to be adventurous. Watch your kid, and follow their lead. 

Introduce them to things that scare them. Gently, of course! Say your kid is afraid of big dogs, even though they’ve never met one. Call up a friend with a great dane, or take your kid to the shelter to show them that big dogs can be very nice. Take a similar tactic with a child who’s afraid of heights—go to the top floor of a tall building, and let them enjoy the view and get accustomed to the height with your support. Soon, they’ll see that the things they once thought were scary aren’t so bad after all. 


We found nine US cities of different sizes in different regions where it’s easy to have all manner of experiences. We evaluated each city for family-friendliness:

  • Cost of living index (US average is 100)
  • Crime rate (US average is 22.7) Q
  • Quality of its education system

We also put the cities into three categories: those rife with outdoor adventures, those with endless opportunities for cultural discovery, and cities that are an excellent home base for taking road trips to new and exciting places.

Best Cities for Outdoor Adventures

Taking your kids on outdoor adventures is crucial for healthy childhood development. Unstructured time outdoors helps children develop creativity and executive functioning—working memory, mental flexibility, and self-control. Modern society is becoming more reliant on technology than ever before, and children are losing their connection to the natural world. Digging in the dirt, seeing wild animals, and getting lots of sunshine are great ways for kids to start appreciating nature.

Here are the top three cities to live in for outdoor adventures.    

Boulder, Colorado 

Population: ~106,000

Cost of living index: 167.4

Violent crime rate: 13.5

Education: A. Boulder Valley School District ranks #4 out of 80 Colorado districts. 

Why it’s a great place for outdoor adventures:

Seated at the foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Boulder has it all: Breathtaking scenery, a pleasurable climate, and tons of spectacular options for outdoor adventures are just the beginning of what this Colorado city has to offer. National Geographic has even rated Boulder as the happiest city in the US

Young outdoor enthusiasts will love Boulder for its plentiful hiking and biking trails. The Open Space and Mountain Parks have trails that go through open land brimming with Colorado’s native flora and fauna, set against the backdrop of the gorgeous Rockies—which themselves are packed with adventures year-round.

Some of the many outdoor activities in and around Boulder include rock climbing at the famous Flatiron rock formations, picnicking in Boulder Mountain Park, fishing in one of the city’s many prime fishing spots, tubing on Boulder creek, kayaking on Boulder Reservoir, exploring the wilderness surrounding the city.

More reasons to choose Boulder:

Boulder isn’t just an outdoor adventure lover’s paradise. It may have a small-town vibe, but it’s got big-city tastes, with a thriving foodie scene, incredible museums, a planetarium, and a vibrant downtown with all sorts of interesting things to do. For those who enjoy classical music—or who don’t, but want their kids to—Boulder even has its own chamber orchestra. And it’s just a half-hour drive to Denver and everything that a world-class city offers.

Bend, Oregon

bend oregon

Population: 197,756

Cost of living index: 123.5

Violent crime rate: 12.2

Education: B+ 

Why it’s a great place for outdoor adventures:

Bend is situated between the Cascade Range and the high desert in central Oregon, making it an outdoor playground with a multitude of outdoor recreational opportunities. Known as “Bike City U.S.A.,” Bend has fantastic bike trails, including the Three Sisters Scenic Bikeway offering incredible views of the Three Sisters peaks in the Cascades. Mount Bachelor is an extinct volcano with some of the best skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding around, and Pilot Butte, located right in the city, is an ancient cinder cone with three hiking trails that reward you with gorgeous mountain and desert views

The Deschutes River in the heart of Bend invites kayakers, floaters, tubers, swimmers, and SUPers of all skill levels to its calm channel, and it welcomes whitewater rafters to its whitewater channel. The volcanic landscape around Bend is dotted with around 400 lava tube caves to explore, and nearby Smith River State Park features more than 1,800 climbing routes for novice climbers and experts alike.

More reasons to choose Bend:

When you’re not adventuring in the Great Outdoors, you’ll enjoy the urban adventures Bend offers. The Old Mill District alongside the Deschutes River is home to an eclectic selection of restaurants, shops, and the Les Schwab Amphitheater, the largest outdoor concert venue in Oregon. Bend loves festivals, and features them year-round, including Winterfest, Brewfest, and Art in the High Desert. The Downtown First Friday Art Walk offers an eyeful of local art and artists’ studios, and the Central Oregon Symphony and Cascades Theatre offer performances for the entire family.

Chesapeake, Virginia

Chesapeake virginia

Population: 239,982

Cost of living index: 106.4

Violent crime rate: 18.1

Education: A

Why it’s a great place for outdoor adventures:

A suburb of Norfolk in Virginia, Chesapeake lies along the Elizabeth River on the Tidewater coastal plain and is crisscrossed by waterways galore. The nearby Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge covers 170 square miles of forested wetlands and is a major draw from hikers, birders, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Kayak or canoe deep into the cypress swamp, fish the 3,000-acre Lake Drummond, or hike the many trails, including the Elizabeth River Trail.

Chesapeake proper offers a large network of urban hiking and biking trails and numerous green spaces, both manicured and wild, and, of course, there’s the Chesapeake Bay, where you can engage in all manner of water activities. From Chesapeake, it’s just a 26-minute drive to Virginia Beach, where you can swim, surf, paddle, and kayak — or just lay on the beach and enjoy the waves.

More reasons to choose Chesapeake:

Chesapeake is home to world-class arts and entertainment experiences, including numerous galleries, museums, and theaters. The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art offers gallery exhibitions and studio art classes, and the city’s many history museums explore various aspects of the Civil War, including exciting reenactments, and the African American Heritage Trail is a self-guided tour exploring the people and places of the Revolutionary War and Civil War and the Underground Railroad.

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Best Cities for Cultural Adventures

Books and movies have massive educational benefits for children, but nothing compares to real experiences. Children who engage with art and culture learn to think about the world compassionately and with an open mind. Cultural awareness teaches kids about diversity and respecting people who live differently than they do.

Here are the best cities to live in to expose your child to all manner of cultural adventures.

Naperville, Illinois 

naperville illinois

Population: 147,501

Cost of living index: 129.6 

Violent crime rate: 10.2 

Education: A+. Ranked Number one city with the best public schools in America.

Why it’s a great place for cultural adventures:

Naperville is a stone’s throw from Chicago, which has world-class dining, entertainment, museums, and arts. But Naperville has its own cultural adventures, including a number of museums, like the Naper Settlement, the 1,700-acre Morton Arboretum, and the Knoch Knolls Nature Center, situated on the DuPage River. 

The downtown historic district boasts Naperville’s professional Bright Side Theatre, and the iconic Wentz Concert Hall features world-class acoustics and brings in a host of performances each year. Naperville’s Century Walk is made up of more than 40 pieces of public art and winds throughout the downtown area. The annual Bites and Sites Food Tour is a culinary adventure with plenty of fun stuff scheduled each year. Other great festivals in Naperville include Ribest, SoulFest, the Naper Nights outdoor community concert series, the Naper Pride Festival, Hometown Holidays, the St. Paddy’s Day Parade, and free municipal band concerts every Thursday in June. Naperville’s Last Fling festival is a four-day event over Labor Day featuring a carnival, national musical artists, a wide range of food vendors, and the largest Labor Day parade in Illinois.

More reasons to choose Naperville:

For outdoor and natural adventuring, Naperville offers the 2,000-acre Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve, a grassland prairie replete with walking trails. For water fun, Paddleboat Quarry is situated on the riverwalk and rents out paddle boats and kayaks. Cantigny Park features formal gardens, golfing, playgrounds, picnic spots, and three miles of hiking trails. 

Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh, North Carolina

Population: 464,485

Cost of living index: 102.3

Violent crime rate: 20.3

Education: A 

Why it’s a great place for cultural adventures:

Known as the Smithsonian of the South for its many free-of-charge, high-quality museums and cultural institutions, Raleigh offers an abundance of fun and interesting cultural adventures for the whole family. The James B. Hunt Library is an architectural masterpiece and a tech-lover’s dream, featuring technological wonders including a robot that fetches books. The North Carolina Museum of Art features art, of course, but also trails, a theater, and a live music venue. The Juniper Level Botanic Garden showcases 27,000 different plant species throughout 28 acres, and the Municipal Rose Garden at the center of the Raleigh Little Theatre campus includes 60 varieties of roses and hosts a free outdoor movie series in the summer.

Home to the Carolina Hurricanes, Raleigh also sports a robust athletics scene that will entertain even the most novice sports-goers. The barbeque in Raleigh is off the charts, but if that’s not your jam, the city has over 1,200 restaurants to choose from. Just a few minutes away in the town of Cary is La Farm bakery, which is considered one of the best European-style bakeries in America. 

More reasons to choose Raleigh:

Proximity to wild spaces in the Great Outdoors is another perk of Raleigh. The mountains are less than three hours away in Western North Carolina, and just a few hours to the east are ocean beaches and the gorgeous Outer Banks. Raleigh also has plenty of lakes, rivers, and parks to explore.

Berkeley, California

berkeley

Population: 121,485

Cost of living index: 235.2

Violent crime rate: 28.5

Education: A+

Why it’s a great place for cultural adventures:

Berkeley is just 20 minutes away from the iconic cultural landmarks of San Francisco, but it’s less expensive than the City—and as a cultural hub in its own right, it’s full of colorful and exciting adventures. Berkeley is a city of art, home to the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, the Berkeley Art Museum, and the Pacific Film Archive. Numerous festivals and special events are put on each year by over 100 cultural arts organizations. 

The Telegraph District along Telegraph Avenue is the heart and soul of Berkeley. It boasts tons of quirky restaurants, adventurous boutiques, and some of the best people-watching in the country. Berkeley’s even got an art scene just for kids—the Habitot Children’s Discovery Museum and Adventure Playground will fill your offspring’s imagination with wonderful sights, sounds, and activities. 

More reasons to choose Berkeley:

Berkeley has a temperate climate that allows for outdoor fun all year round. Six magical Pacific Ocean beaches are within a two-hour drive of Berkeley. Land’s End, which is just 45 minutes away, has walking trails and offers a majestic view of the Pacific and Golden Gate Bridge. 

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Best Cities for Traveling Adventures (Day and Weekend Trips)

Traveling ignites your child’s imagination, curiosity, and sense of adventure. It introduces kids to new scenery, new food, and other ways of life, and it illustrates that despite the differences in landscape and culture, people everywhere are more or less the same.

Families who love to take to the road will find a wealth of opportunities for day trips and weekend getaways in these cities.

Newton, Massachusetts  

newton

Population: 88,593

Cost of living index: 215.5

Violent crime rate: 9.7

Education: A+

Why it’s a great place for traveling adventures:

A suburb of Boston, Newton offers close proximity to incredible cultural attractions, and it’s a great place to live if your family loves the road trip life. From Newton, you can enjoy easy weekend getaways to numerous big cities, quaint towns, the quiet countryside, the seaside, and scores of national parks in Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Maine. In just over three hours, you can be in the heart of New York City and all that metropolis offers.

Newton itself features plenty of adventures for weekends at home, including lots of dining, arts, and entertainment opportunities as well as outdoor destinations like Hemlock Gorge, found on one of Newton’s trails and featuring a beautiful, historic bridge that makes epic echoes. Scenic Crystal Lake is a great swimming spot with a small beach, and the Charles River, a prime canoeing spot, is worth the short drive any day of the week. 

More reasons to choose Newton:

Newton is a history buff’s dream, where history museums and historical landmarks abound. Farmers’ markets and world-class ribs will appease foodies, while Newton’s cultural festivals and theatre scene are sure to satiate the art lovers in your family.  

Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola

Population: 52,642

Cost of living index: 98.6

Violent crime rate: 35.7

Education: B-

Why it’s a great place for traveling adventures:

Pensacola, located on the Florida panhandle, is home to pristine, white-sand beaches, which is a must for many adventurous, outdoorsy families. But it’s also a great home base for weekend getaways. From Pensacola, you can get to New Orleans in under three hours, and just an hour away, you can visit the incredible historic sites in Mobile, Alabama. 

A few hours of scenic driving will get you to Tallahassee, the state capital, which is rife with Civil War sites and home to the impressive capitol building, the Museum of Florida History, the fascinating Lake Jackson Mounds Archeological State Park, and Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park. About an hour away from Pensacola is the Black River State Forest, the largest forest in Florida, where you can camp, fish, boat, kayak, and canoe. Just down the road from Pensacola are numerous charming beach towns, including Destin, Fort Walton, and Seaside.

More reasons to choose Pensacola:

Pensacola has plenty to do without leaving the city. Ziplining, water parks, water sports on the Bay, and a multitude of museums will keep your family busy and entertained when you’re not on the road. Pensacola is also home to the Blue Angels, the Navy’s Flight Demonstration Squadron, whose amazing aerial stunts can be seen during the month of July. 

Sacramento, California

sacramento

Population: 500,930

Cost of living index: 118.2

Violent crime rate: 35.6

Education: B

Why it’s a great place for traveling adventures:

Situated in northern California, Sacramento is the state capital, and it’s an affordable home base for an adventuring family. From Sacramento, it’s a quick and easy trip to Yosemite National Park, Stanislaus National Forest, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, and San Francisco. Within about three hours, you can be on the famous beaches of Marin County, and in five hours, you’ll be staring up at the tallest redwood tree on earth. 

Watersport enthusiasts rejoice! Unlike most of California, Sacramento is home to scores of rivers and lakes. These waterways provide ample opportunity for day trips to go boating, fishing, swimming, rafting, hiking, and more. 

More reasons to choose Sacramento:

Sacramento is a beautiful city filled with eclectic neighborhoods and great food. It has a rich history from the Gold Rush days and is home to one of the oldest triathlons in the nation. Sacramento is a cultural hub, boasting lots of annual festivals and carnivals and home to the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera.


Although all of these cities are great places to raise an adventurous kid, nearly any town or city will do, as long as you engage in activities that are new and exciting for your child!

Check with your local tourism office for a comprehensive list of everything your location offers. Chances are, you’ll discover fun things to do that you had no idea existed—and you’ll find yourself enjoying exciting adventures with wide-eyed wonder, right alongside the children.

And, if you do decide to relocate your adventurous children cross-country, let movers do the heavy lifting and transporting for you.

Your Kitchen Remodel: Cost Factors, Layout Ideas and How to Renovate

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Going into a kitchen remodel is a very intimidating task, especially if you are not very familiar with the process. In spite of this, there are a lot of people blindly diving into this large-scale project every year … including me!

How many? According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, over ten million Americans had their kitchens remodeled in 2015. And the numbers have only risen in the years since.

If you are one of those more than 10 million people tackling a kitchen remodel this year, this post is for you.

Everything To Expect When Remodeling A Kitchen

Kitchen Remodel

When I set out to get my kitchen remodeled, I honestly had no clue where to start. I had such a hard time finding info online that could map out the process for a rookie like me.

I vowed right then and there I would offer the internet everything I learned after I lived through that experience!

Take it from me, seeing the whole picture from the start is extremely helpful.

Most of the hard work (for anyone not physically putting together their kitchen infrastructure themselves) is at the front end of the process. Renovation is a lot like cooking: there’s a lot of prep.

Read over the complete process someone goes through before any work actually happens on a kitchen space:

  • Establish a budget
  • Find a designer to confirm new layout and provide accurate blueprints
  • Find and hire a contractor you trust and can afford
  • Identify where you want to buy cabinets and countertops
  • Research colors, textures, trends, materials, etc.
  • Order your cabinet and countertop and triple check to confirm your kitchen’s specs
  • Order anything else you may need (appliances, backsplash, light fixtures, faucets, sink, range hood, etc.)
  • Work with your contractor to establish a timeline
  • Keep track of all of all materials as they arrive
  • Clean out all of your old kitchen cabinets
  • Set up a temporary kitchen somewhere else in the house
  • Allow the contractors to do the heavy lifting, but be prepared to live in total chaos

Seems like a lot, huh? Don’t worry, here’s the step-by-step process.

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The first step is to create a layout, with or without a designer

Kitchen Remodel

If you plan on changing the layout your kitchen, the first thing you should do is hire a designer to work with you in identifying the best layout. Believe it or not, there’s a website for that. Head to ASID (the American Society of Interior Designers) to find one for hire near you!

From there, the designer will provide scaled blueprints that you will need to move onto the next steps. This step is technically optional, but it turned out to be the best thing I did during my remodel process!

Collect bids from contractorsKitchen Remodel

The next step in the process is collecting bids from contractors you are interested in hiring to complete your project.

Usually, bids come at no cost, so I encourage you to get several bids so you have a more accurate idea of what the project will cost you in the end. Before you decide on the contractor you wish to work with, be sure to check out this contract hiring guide and make sure you outline all of the details before you commit (and pay!).

What Specific Decisions Will I Have To Make?

To be perfectly honest, the amount of decisions you need to make as you prep for a kitchen renovation is overwhelming. But preparing for them in advance makes each task a lot more manageable.

Outside of the obvious questions regarding color and style, there are a lot of other things you will need to consider and purchase. Here is a list to keep handy:

  • Cabinet hardware
  • Cabinet door design
  • The material of the cabinet (which impacts cost)
  • The material of the countertop (which, again, impacts cost)
  • Box cabinets or special order cabinetry
  • Backsplash style, size, material
  • Appliances (style, brand, cost, color, “extras”)
  • Open shelving or closed cabinetry
  • Flooring materials and costs
  • Window treatments
  • Light fixtures
  • Extra organization (there are options built-into your cabinetry)
  • Installation of the cabinetry
  • Size of the cabinets (depth, width, and height)
  • Drawers vs. cabinets
  • Timeline
  • Can lights or fan
  • Material of sink
  • Plumping changes
  • Electrical changes

Be smart when shopping for materials

Kitchen Remodel

Once you hire the contractor, they will be a great resource for pointing you in the right directions for your materials, specifically for cabinets and countertops.

Sometimes contractors can get these products at a discounted rate if you shop at the retailers they recommend. Talk to them about this option before you decide on where you want to purchase your big-ticket items.

And if they don’t have any recommendations, you can always shop at big box hardware stores.

Protip: You will need to bring your exact measurements from your designer (or contractor) when you go out to physically shop, as well as have an idea of what design you want the kitchen to have. Of course, the salesperson can also help you make these decisions, but this is your kitchen, after all!

Finished buying? Your timeline begins now

Kitchen Remodel

After you make the cabinet and countertop order, your contractor will work with you to create a timeline of the projects that need to be done before the cabinets arrive, which will include:

  • Demolition
  • Electrical work
  • Plumbing work

Remember, cabinets can take up to eight weeks to arrive, and possibly longer if they are custom. Getting to work before the cabinets arrive will ensure they are ready to install quickly after they get to your front door.

Your contractor (or you) will get to work

Kitchen Remodel

It’s time to get to work! If you have contractors, they will work to demo your current kitchen, then work even harder to put the new and improved one back together. If you did get a contractor, this is the easy part for you because, at this point, the work is out of your hands. Most all of your hard work should have already occurred during the front end of this project.

Hope you don’t mind living without a proper kitchen for a while. Be patient and your new kitchen will be ready soon enough for you to enjoy!

How long will a kitchen renovation take?

Kitchen Remodel

Every kitchen renovation will vary in terms of timing, depending on the scope of work and the size of the space. But traditionally, a kitchen renovation can run on average 4-8 weeks. Living without a kitchen for that long can be a large inconvenience, but I am here to reassure you that if we can manage it, so can you!

Kitchen Remodel

My best advice to handle this chaos is to set up a temporary kitchen prior to demoing your current kitchen. We have our fridge, microwave, and crockpot working overtime! Plus, we meal prep at our parent’s house to make healthy food for the week (so you don’t have months and months of takeout).

Is It All Really Worth It?

Kitchen Remodel

Now being on the other side of it, it was absolutely worth it!

According to HGTV, a kitchen remodel is projected to give you a 70% return on your investment, while statistics from Today’s Homeowner reports that this number could be as high as 91% of a return on this investment! So as much as this intimidating task may seem overwhelming at first and chaotic to live through, coming out the other side will be worth it in the long run. You are adding significant value to your home by making these updates now and getting a gorgeous kitchen to enjoy at the same time.

Of course, there is a lot more information you can devour as you prepare for your upcoming kitchen remodel, but I hope this beginner’s guide gave you an overview of what to expect. Seeing the bigger picture from the start will provide you peace of mind to tackle each step with confidence, and maybe even a little bit of excitement!

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