Moving for family-related reasons is the second most common motivation for moving, according to recent Census data. But, moving to be closer to family isn’t always simple. Moving can sometimes bring unexpected challenges, and those who have not carefully thought through all the factors might be faced with regrets.
In this article, we’ll explore why people choose to move closer to family, the undeniable perks of doing so, and the considerations you need to keep in mind to ensure this move is the right one for you. We’ll also offer tips for planning for the move and hiring packing and moving services to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Why People Move Closer to Family
Every family story is unique, which means why people choose to move closer to family can vary widely. Below are some of the most common reasons why people decide to relocate to be closer to their loved ones.
Moving closer to family after having a baby
Nothing compares to welcoming a new baby into the world. It is an experience that is at once joyous and overwhelming. For many new parents, having family nearby is especially meaningful at this time. Being close means a support network, as well as more opportunities to spend quality time together, create lasting family memories, and share in family traditions like holiday cooking.
Moving closer to family after a divorce
Divorce can leave individuals feeling isolated and lonely and without the support they’re used to for child care, home maintenance, and other daily responsibilities. Some people might choose to move closer to family after a divorce for help with these day-to-day activities, for more emotional support, or even help with finances.
Seniors moving closer to family after retirement
For retirees, moving closer to family often means trading a newly-empty nest for the laughter of grandchildren and regular dinners shared over a communal table. Proximity to family allows seniors to stay closely involved in their children's and grandchildren’s lives so they can attend everyday milestones, such as school plays or athletic games, as well as special occasions like birthday parties. Living nearby also makes it easier to provide help — from the banal (assistance with household chores) to the profound (offering wisdom gained from years of experience).
Moving closer to aging parents
As parents grow older, their need for assistance increases. Many adult children choose to move closer to help with daily tasks and medical appointments, or just to spend more quality time together. Being present for everyday moments can deepen relationships in ways that FaceTime calls can’t.
No matter what the driving factor, whether it’s a new baby, aging parents, or just wanting to spend more time with loved ones, it’s easy to see why moving to be closer to family and friends is one of the top reasons for moving. If you’re in one of those categories, carefully weigh the pros and cons while noting family dynamics, and if the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, get started planning your move.
Benefits of Moving to Be Closer to Family
If you’re considering moving to be closer to family, you’re likely drawn to the many advantages it offers. Here we take a closer look at how this decision can positively impact your life in a number of ways.
Emotional support
While a phone call home does wonders when daily life gets challenging, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a hug from a parent or sibling to provide assurance. Living closer to family means having a built-in support system nearby. This can be especially helpful for those undergoing life changes, such as a divorce or growing a family, or for those who face health issues.
Quality time
Moving closer to family enables more frequent in-person interactions, which are an important foundation of strong relationships. Instead of waiting months (or even years) between visits, you can simply drop by — whether it's every day, for a weekly dinner, or occasional get-togethers. These everyday moments add up, deepening relationships and make it easier to create cherished memories.
Practical support
Having family nearby has practical benefits, saving time, money, and energy. For instance, you can get help with child care, home projects, or unexpected errands such as handling a car breakdown.
Less travel time
Long-distance travel can be expensive, exhausting, and logistically challenging — and it can eat up your PTO. By relocating closer to family, you eliminate the need for costly flights or grueling road trips. An added bonus, you can spend those vacation days exploring new destinations or simply relaxing with your loved ones.
Sense of community
Living near family fosters a sense of belonging and familiarity, especially if you’re moving back to your hometown or a place you’re familiar with. You can look forward to strengthening your sense of connection with shared traditions, inside jokes, and local knowledge. This can also reduce loneliness and contribute to better mental health.
Are people who live close to family happier?
Moving closer to family can bring emotional support, practical assistance, and a stronger sense of connection. Individual experiences vary according to family dynamics and personal needs but research suggests the benefits above lead to enhanced well-being.
Moving Closer to Family: Considerations
While moving closer to family has a number of benefits, it’s not a decision to take lightly. Before making the move, it’s important to carefully weigh the potential downsides and logistical challenges that come with change on this scale.
Family dynamics
Let’s face it — no family is perfect. Living closer can sometimes worsen existing tensions or make differences in lifestyles more noticeable. Before making your final decision, be open with your family about your expectations and ensure everyone is aligned.
Maintaining independence
Moving to be closer to family doesn’t mean you have to give up your independence. It’s important to define early on the level of support and togetherness that feels right. Finding the right balance and setting boundaries are key to preserving your autonomy while still enjoying the benefits of proximity.
Career changes
For many people, moving closer to family means transitioning to a new job or career as part of moving out of state. This change can be both exciting and challenging. To prepare, research the local job market and consider whether relocating aligns with your professional goals. Explore flexible options such as remote work, starting a business, or working as a freelancer. A little planning can make the professional side of relocation much smoother.
The needs of your immediate family
A move affects everyone in your household, including your spouse and children—not just the extended family you’re moving closer to. Make sure everyone is on board before moving away.
Moving can be especially hard for children, who will be leaving behind their friends as well as a familiar school and home. The hardest age to move is between the ages of 12 and 14, it’s worth carefully considering whether the move is in their best interest.
If you do decide to relocate, involve your children in the process, acknowledge their feelings, and help them stay connected to friends as they adjust to a new environment.
Evaluating the city
Before committing to a move, take time to assess whether the city you’re considering moving to aligns with your family’s current and future needs. If you’re moving back to your hometown to be closer to family, consider whether it still feels like “home,” or if it has changed significantly since you left. Ask yourself questions like: Is the cost of living and housing market compatible with your income? Will your family have the same healthcare resources or job and educational opportunities? Will they have access to the resources and amenities that matter most to them?
| Ready to start planning your move? Get a fast, free quote from Colonial. |
Top Tips for Moving To Be Closer to Family
Moving closer to family is an exciting life change that can bring immense joy and practical benefits. That being said, making the most of this decision requires thoughtful planning and clear communication. Here are some tips for navigating your move as smoothly as possible:
Choose the right distance
When looking for a new home, choosing the right neighborhood can be important for many reasons. But when you’re moving to be close to family, proximity to your loved ones is important. You’ll want to be close enough to reap the benefits.
For example, if you’re moving to help aging parents, being close makes daily check-ins and getting to doctor appointments easier. If you’re interested in having the grandparents help with childcare, you’ll want to be convenient to their house. On the other hand, if you’re simply looking to attend more family gatherings while still maintaining personal space, a 20- to 30-minute distance could strike the perfect balance.
Plan your move carefully
Once you’ve made the decision to relocate, it’s time to focus on the logistics. With a long-distance move, the sooner you get started on planning, the better. Create a moving timeline, budget for movers, and make a moving checklist to keep the process organized. Treat this move as you would any other major transition — well-planned and well-coordinated to minimize stress.
Set clear boundaries
It might feel natural to lean on family for support after a move, but it’s equally important to avoid being overly reliant — and vice-versa. Just because you live nearby doesn't mean you can drop everything at a moment’s notice for each other. Strike a healthy balance by clearly communicating your needs, respecting each other’s boundaries, and offering help as readily as you receive it.
Plan regular visits
Moving closer to family doesn’t guarantee stronger relationships. Once you’ve settled into your new home, make it a priority to schedule regular visits with your loved ones. These consistent interactions will help deepen your bond and ensure that you’re truly taking advantage of your proximity.
Why Colonial Van Lines Is Great for When You’re Moving to Be Closer to Family
Moving closer to family is an exciting time, but like any relocation, it can bring its fair share of stress. Hiring professional movers can help make sure everything goes smoothly.
At Colonial Van Lines, we're specialized long-distance movers with over five decades of interstate moving experience, making us an ideal choice for your family-focused relocation. All our movers are trained through our very own Colonial Van Lines University, ensuring your belongings are handled with expertise and care. We also offer a full-service experience, which means we take care of every step, from loading and furniture disassembly to driving, unloading, and furniture reassembly.
Full-service movers like Colonial Van Lines greatly reduce the effort and stress of moving — especially in the middle of big life changes that drive you to be closer to family. We can customize your move by adding services such as packing and unpacking to help lighten the load even more.