Young lawyers can expect to move multiple times over their lives, whether from an upgrade in lifestyle, a lateral transfer, or the purchase of a home. This checklist lists the important costs and insurance considerations to keep track of during a move.
According to the Census Bureau, after age 18 the average person moves nine times. Lawyers move for many reasons: switching firms, upgrading their lifestyle, or transitioning from renting to owning a home.
Set Up Utilities Beforehand
Call providers at least a week before move-in for electricity, gas, water, sewage, trash, and internet.
Adjust Insurance Coverage
Update renters/homeowners, auto, disability, and health insurance for your new address. Get quotes from multiple providers before renewing your current coverage.
Change Your Mailing Address
Update your driver's license, credit cards, bank and investment accounts, insurance, doctors, voter registration, and employer HR records. Also set up USPS mail forwarding as a catch-all.
Calculate the Costs of Moving
Consider the value of your time, whether to DIY or hire movers, upfront housing costs (deposits, down payments, escrow fees), and moving supplies — budget for roughly double what you expect to spend on boxes and supplies.
Bonus: Make Money to Move
Selling unwanted items on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist before a move can help offset moving costs.
Final Takeaways
Most lawyers will move multiple times over their lives. Planning ahead for insurance, costs, address changes, and utilities won't guarantee a smooth move, but it certainly helps.
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