The Midwest stretches across the middle of the United States and consists of Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Nebraska, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. The Midwest is America’s heartland and home to many families. If you have been considering making a move to the Midwest, but you are unsure if it is right for you, check out our list of pros and cons of moving to the Midwest.
Pros:
- The cost of living in Midwestern states is ranked among the lowest in nation, making it more affordable for growing families.
- Since the cities and populations are generally smaller, there is significantly less traffic on the roads compared to larger cities on the East and West Coast.
- Although crime is found anywhere in the country, crime rates in the Midwest are generally lower than other areas of the county. The smaller populations are a major contributing factor. The more individuals living in an area, the more likely crime is to rise.
- Seasonal weather is another benefit of living in the Midwest. Midwestern states experience all the major seasons – spring, summer, fall and winter.
- The Midwest is home to some of the best food and beer in the country. Wisconsin cheese, Chicago-style hot dogs, St. Louis-style pizza, and Kansas City BBQ are some of the tastiest foods in the nation. There are also over 100 breweries in the region, including the famous Anheuser Busch brewery located in St. Louis.
Cons:
- Although the weather can be a perk of living in the Midwest it can also have its downfalls. Midwestern states are prone to cold winters, hot summers, and some states lie in the heart of tornado alley.
- The main mode of transportation is by car. Unlike in larger cities, public transit is not a necessity, but having your own vehicle is for most people. Everything is more spread out compared to a big city, and you will definitely need a car to get where you need to go. This can be costly for individuals who aren’t used to owning their own vehicle.
- The job markets are definitely smaller in these states. Although there are many major corporations housed in some of the bigger cities in the region, there is a lack of variety in jobs available. In turn, salaries are generally lower in these areas compared to other states. This is also due to the cost of living being lower.
- There are many beautiful state parks, rivers, and lakes available to visit, but there is generally a lack of natural “wonders”. You will have to travel many hours to reach the nearest ocean or mountain.
If you are planning an upcoming move to the Midwest, contact your friends at Fry-Wagner Moving and Storage. We have been moving families in the Midwest and all over the country since 1908! To learn more about our moving services, or to schedule a free in-home estimate, contact us today!
