Why Do You Live Where You Live?

The other day I got a call from a prospective client looking for moving and storage services while he gives his home a complete remodel. The planned remodel is so thorough, in fact, that it was suggested to him that it would be cheaper to just buy a new house. His reply: He has the perfect neighbors, and that's something he could never replace. That's impressive! His reply got me thinking about the title of this month's newsletter. Whether you're attached (or not) to your neighborhood, city, or state, why do you live where you live?

California draws people in with its perpetual sunshine, extensive natural beauty, and varied economic opportunities. The state's diverse neighborhoods, healthy living, and agriculture keeps them here. I've driven throughout the contiguous United States, and while there is beauty throughout the country, there isn't another place quite like California. I certainly understand how this state draws in its loyal transplants.

Nonetheless, the state's draw has been tested recently, most acutely in the last few months. The devastating and wide-reaching wildfires marred—literally and metaphorically—LA's natural beauty, contributed to its problematic air, and exasperated an already challenging housing market. Many Californians have found themselves wondering,

“Why am I still here?”

For many, the answer is joyful: the beaches, the mountains, the communities. This is home. For others, the answer is practical: family ties or career opportunities that require California to be their home base.

But for some, there is no satisfactory answer. In fact, over the years, we've heard many heartfelt reasons for moving out of California:

"Our first grandbaby is due soon, and we want to be closer."

"My job went 100% remote, so why not trade traffic for a slower pace?"

"I always meant to move back to my hometown and now feels like the right time."

Whether you're moving to, within, or out of California; whether you're expanding or downsizing; whether you're building a new home or returning to a familiar one; moving one's home is always about looking beyond the next horizon and having the courage to start a new chapter.

Wherever your journey takes you—including back into your newly remodeled home next to the best neighbors one could ask for—we at Camelot Moving & Storage are excited to play a part in getting you there.

So, what keeps you where you are? Or perhaps, where is your next chapter? We'd love to hear your thoughts.