I’m a Career Expert: Relocation Could Double Your Paycheck — 5 Ways to Make It Happen
Written by
Kerra Bolton
Edited by
Angela Corry
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Relocating for work can double your salary by opening doors to industry hot spots, higher-paying roles and specialized opportunities that are unavailable locally.
“From my experience working with clients across various industries, it makes financial sense to relocate when the opportunity offers a significant salary bump that can cover the costs of the move, plus give you room to grow financially in the long-term,” said Tamanna Ramesh, founder of Spark Careers.
Relocation could double your paycheck. According to career experts, here are five ways to make it happen.
Focus on Industry Hot Spots
Relocation often places professionals in regions or cities with a higher demand for their skills. For example, moving to tech hubs like Seattle or finance centers like Boston can result in substantial pay increases.
These areas often offer higher salaries to attract top talent, making relocation a strategic move for professionals seeking financial growth.
“I’ve had to navigate strategic financial decisions, including relocations, and much of my time is now spent mentoring professionals on career growth,” said Darian Shimy, CEO and Founder of FutureFund, a fundraising and selling platform for K-12 school groups.
Shimy said, “Depending on the industry and, quite frankly, your personality type, moving to a major hub often provides access to networks and opportunities that pay off in ways that go beyond the paycheck.”
Earn More Where It Costs More
Unfortunately, industry hot spots tend to be located in cities with higher costs of living. For example, buying a gallon of milk in Seattle and Boston will cost $5.05 and $4.38, respectively, compared to $4.01 nationwide.
“Professionals should weigh not just the salary increase, but also factors like housing costs, taxes, and career trajectory,” Shimy said.
Employers tend to compensate for the higher cost of living by offering competitive salaries that outpace those in other areas. While living expenses rise, the salary increase can make up the difference. For example, taking Seattle and Boston as examples, the median household income in Seattle and Boston is $124,715 and $95,858, compared to $78,171 nationwide.
“Relocation makes financial sense when the opportunity offers significant career growth or a salary increase justifies the cost,” Shimy said. “Moves can also be worth it when they align with long-term goals, perhaps entering a high-demand industry or securing leadership roles.”
Be Open to Opportunities
Sometimes, the right career role exists in another city. Relocation can open opportunities for promotions or roles with higher pay scales that may not exist in a professional’s current location.
Career growth and advancement are more achievable in cities or regions where industries are thriving, allowing professionals to scale their income accordingly, Ramesh said.
“From what I’ve seen in my own work, industries like technology, finance, healthcare, and engineering are some of the best sectors offering substantial salary increases for relocation,” Ramesh said. “For example, I’ve helped several clients relocate to tech hubs like Silicon Valley or Seattle, where their roles came with higher salaries and substantial equity compensation and growth opportunities.”
Negotiate For Relocation Packages
Relocating is expensive. According to Moving.com, the average cost of a long-distance move (about 1,000 miles) is $4,890 for a two-to-three-bedroom move.
“I always tell my clients to consider the full scope of what’s being offered,” Ramesh said. “For example, negotiating for a company to cover your moving costs can save you thousands, and securing a housing allowance in a high-rent city can make a huge difference.”
Job Hunt in Competitive Markets
According to data from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, states in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Northwest are experiencing severe labor shortages. Professionals with the right skills can negotiate better salaries and benefits in these regions.
Relocating can also put professionals in markets where their skills are in short supply but in high demand. However, they should make sure that underresourced areas match their lifestyle.
“A financially smart move can still feel like a mistake if the location doesn’t align with your values or personal goals,” Shimy said. “I’ve mentored people who thrived because they prioritized not just the money, but lifestyle and community too.”
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