California is the most populous state in the US, and for the millions of people who make their home here, it has so much to offer.

Yet with 49 other states to weigh up, anyone who is looking for a place to put down roots has quite the conundrum to unpick.

Let’s look at the aspects which will sway your decision, and help you work out whether it is better to settle in California or move elsewhere in the country.

Will You Be buying Your First Home? Different States Have Different Programs to Help

The availability of affordable housing is the major motivator for first-time buyers, and getting on the housing ladder in California has never been harder given the crazy market right now.

This is why you might be wise to look elsewhere, not only because real estate prices are lower, but because there are initiatives set up specifically to help people buy their first property. For example, a program for first-time home buyers in Ohio provides grants worth up to 5% of the value of the home to be used for everything from the down payment to the legal costs of completing the purchase.

Another point to make is that you can get a lot more bang for your buck when buying property in states where average prices are lower than in California. Finding a bigger plot of land, or a home with more bedrooms to accommodate a growing family, could be a priority for some people, but not for others.

Is The Economy Important To You? California Still Leads The Pack

In terms of economic clout, there’s no question that California packs more of a punch not just than many other states, but also than a number of major developed nations worldwide.

This is of course reflected in its strong housing market, and if you want to get a job in certain industries, such as tech and finance, then it is definitely the place to be.

That is not to say that you can’t find similar niches elsewhere, and it is definitely possible to get what you want from an employment standpoint throughout the majority of the other states of the union. Even so, thinking about how you will earn a living will have to be a factor you prioritize when weighing this decision.

Where Are the Rest of Your Family Based? Transport Links Are Key

In the age of air travel, it’s not difficult to get around the country quickly and affordably, so long as you live within driving distance of a major airport.

This could be a good reason to move out of California, even if your extended family will still be staying in-state. If the transport links are good in the place you settle down, then you don’t need to worry about missing out on big occasions, or just staying connected with the people who are important to you.

Of course not everywhere has the best transport options, and so you need to scrutinize this aspect of any prospective town or city outside of California that is on your watch list.

Do You Have Kids? Education And Healthcare Will Matter a Lot

For people with children, settling down is a good idea as it gives them the stability they need to develop in a consistent environment.

Whether you move out of state, or relocate to a different part of California, examining the quality of the education and healthcare resources in the area is the last and perhaps the most impactful factor to consider.

In short, you need to do your research and look at your own circumstances and priorities, rather than rushing into anything.