This Is What I Wish I Knew Before Moving Across the Country

I thought I was prepared. I made the checklists. I labeled the boxes. I mapped out the drive and saved every penny I could. But moving across the country is one of those things you can’t fully understand until you’ve done it. And now that I have, I’ve got a few things to say — mostly to the past version of myself who had no idea what was coming.

Here’s what I wish I knew before I packed my life into the back of a truck and left everything familiar behind.

1. The Cost Isn’t Just Financial — It’s Emotional Too

Everyone talks about the money (which, yes, adds up fast). Between the moving truck, gas, hotels, deposits, new furniture, and endless “little” purchases, I spent more than I ever expected.

But no one warned me about the emotional cost. You’re leaving your people, your routines, your comfort. There are moments of excitement, but also quiet grief. That ache in your chest when the reality sets in — this isn’t just a trip. You’re not going back.

2. You’ll Pack Things You Don’t Need and Forget the Things You Do

I packed three coats but forgot basic cleaning supplies. I dragged a heavy dresser across the country only to donate it three weeks later because it didn’t fit.

If I could go back, I’d bring only what I used every day and leave behind what I thought I “might need.” Space is expensive — physically and mentally.

3. Your First Night Might Be the Loneliest One of Your Life

It hit me around 11 PM on night one. I sat on the floor of my empty apartment, eating fast food out of a bag, surrounded by boxes and silence. I didn’t know my neighbors. I didn’t have friends in the area. I didn’t even know where the closest grocery store was.

I wish I had expected that kind of loneliness. It doesn’t last forever, but it stings at first.

4. The Logistics Will Break You If You’re Not Careful

From scheduling your move-in time to transferring utilities, everything takes longer than it should. You’ll wait on hold. You’ll argue with companies. You’ll question why you ever moved in the first place.

Take breaks. Ask for help. And remind yourself that it won’t always be this chaotic.

5. You Might Want to Quit (But You Won’t)

There were moments I thought, “I made a mistake.” When homesickness mixed with stress and I felt like I couldn’t handle one more thing going wrong.

But every time I powered through, I grew a little stronger. And one day — without realizing it — I started to feel at home.

6. It Takes Time to Build a New Life — Give Yourself Grace

The first few weeks (or months) won’t feel magical. You might not love your job right away. You might not click with anyone right off the bat. You might eat takeout more than you want and cry more than you thought you would.

Give it time. Be kind to yourself. Building a life from scratch is hard — but also incredibly brave.

7. Moving Will Show You Who You Are

This move didn’t just teach me how to budget better or fold a fitted sheet (finally). It taught me how to be alone. How to be resourceful. How to let go of control and still be okay.

I discovered strength I didn’t know I had — and honestly, I’m proud of that.

🐻 Bonus: If You’re Moving to San Diego…

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