Most adults will, at some point, move to a brand new city. Sure, you may know a few people in this new place, but it will still be pretty foreign. Your favorite coffee shop may not exist in this new place, your favorite bar will have to be replaced, and the biggest variable involved is knowing what area to live in.

Here are some tips and advice on how to make a successful transition into your new home!

People

Meeting new people is not only terrifying, but can seem extremely difficult to do. If you have an office job, very often you might find that the people surrounding you won’t share a similar lifestyle. They may be older, married, have children, really any number of things that might keep you from forming a close bond. One option, if you can manage it, is to get an evening job. Though it is a difficult thing to do, it can be worth it. Working in a bar or restaurant at night will introduce you to a wide array of people. Another option is participating in a recreational sports that you enjoy. The easiest way to get your foot in the door for is checking on a site like Craigslist for teams who need substitutes. Also, a lot of times the facility that holds the leagues will have lists people who can be called when the teams need someone to step in, so try to get your name on that! If you’re more of an artistic soul, auditioning for a play or musical is a really fun way to meet people. Even if you don’t get the part, you could come out with a friend or two. Taking an adult painting or dance class can also be a good way to meet people with similar interests.

Hangouts

In your old town or city there was probably a specific restaurant, bar or coffee shop that you enjoyed hanging out at. Well, that establishment won’t exist in this new place (even if it’s a chain, it still won’t feel like “yours”). The best way to find a new place in your new town is by locating the area that most appeals to you. Research the different parts of town (downtown, uptown, etc..) and figure out which one caters to your interests and lifestyle. Then, go walk around. Walking around and seeing the variety of hangout spots firsthand is the best way to find the place that will be right for you. And no matter what, at least you’re getting out there!

Living Quarters

As a young female, finding the right place to live is essential. You probably want a place that is not only safe, but hip, which can be a hard combination to come by. The first rule? Do not pick somewhere before you see it. The apartment or house may look great on paper (or in photos online), but you can never tell what surrounds that perfect apartment until you see it for yourself. Also, don’t steer out of your price range unless it is a MUST. There will always be that place that is OMG JUST SO PERFECT, and those are the ones that are worth upping your budget (if you’re able to). “Well, I am tired of looking and it will work I guess” is not an acceptable reason to up your limit.

People, hangouts and where to live are the major things involved when moving to a new city. If nothing else, I hope these tips will at least get you a friend and a place to drown for you two to drown your sorrows.

If you’ve ever moved out to a new place, how did you settle down and make it your home? Share your stories in the comments!

Written by Emily Zitterkopf