According to a recent survey by Randstad US and Apartment Guide, 57 percent of employees would quit working for a great employer if their location moved, their commute was significantly affected and they did not allow telecommuting or remote work options. That number increases to 69 percent for Millennials (specifically those who are 25-34).
So, what makes the biggest difference in their willingness to move?
More than half of the employees surveyed (51 percent) would not be willing to move out of the country for a better job opportunity.
Gen Xers and Boomers are even less likely to do so, though, as only 25 percent of those ages 50-64 say they would move to another country for a job. This isn't surprising since they likely have deeper roots where they live and may have children or grandchildren living nearby.
More than half (56 percent) of those surveyed said they would move out of state for a job opportunity. Gen Z and Millennials are the most likely to venture to another state, with 69 percent saying they'd consider it.
Often, it takes a great opportunity to consider a move since relocating (especially to a new city or state) is a time consuming and, sometimes, expensive process. Most companies today don't offer relocation packages unless it's a major corporation or the role is a senior executive position.
Erin, a Millennial in Atlanta, shares:
“I haven't ever moved for a job. It would take an amazing job opportunity for myself or my future husband."
Additionally, a move may be more likely just after finishing a degree or when someone is looking to change industries or careers.
Still, younger generations — Gen Z (61 percent) and Millennials (59 percent) — are more willing to move to a place they don't like for a better job opportunity, compared to 41 percent of all employees.
Another job relocation survey by Allied, a major moving company, sheds some light on the factors that are the most common catalyst for moving. Half (50 percent) of people who move do so for career advancement or money and 12 percent do so because they're transferred to a new division. Another 9 percent move because their business relocated and 8 percent also make the move to be closer to family or a partner/spouse.
If you do decide to move, you'll want to research options in the areas you're interested in and learn from other renters about what they wish they did before signing a lease.
When looking for the perfect place to rent or buy, more than two-thirds of all employees (69 percent) believe it's important to have appealing lifestyle amenities like restaurants, gyms and shops within 10 miles of their new home.
Apartment Guide also found in a previous survey that amenities focused on security, convenience and technology are most important with 35 percent of renters interested in having gated access and 31 percent want easy access to public transportation.
Research findings are based on an OmniPulse survey fielded by national polling firm Research Now on behalf of Randstad US and Apartment Guide. The survey was fielded from April 8-12, 2019. It included 1,211 employed people between the ages of 18 and 45+ who are either homeowners or renters of a house, room or apartment and a nationally representative sample balanced on age, gender and region.