Image of the Kansas City your new home skyline at twilight
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Making Kansas City your New Home

Kansas City is the largest city in the state of Missouri. It is also the 6th largest city in the Midwest. As of 2015, the city had around 475,000 residents and was the 36th largest city in the nation. Kansas City straddles the Kansas-Missouri border and a portion of the city lies in the state of Kansas as well.

Kansas City is a beautiful city with many amenities to offer residents. Here are some of the things you should consider when you are moving to Kansas City.

Economy

The economy in Kansas City, is one of the fastest growing in the area. One thing that keeps the economy of Kansas City so strong is its access to large national and international companies. For example, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, Crayola, Barts Electric and American Century Investments are all companies that are found in the city. These companies help provide jobs and improve the economy of Kansas City significantly.

Housing Market

Currently, the housing market in Kansas City is starting to see its first growth since the financial crash of 2008. However, the growth is still slightly lower than where the rest of the country is at. But, the growth in the market is rather promising, and now is a great time to begin shopping for a home in the city. In fact, experts believe that 4,000 more homes will sell in 2016 than they did in 2015.

School Districts

The Kansas City Kansas Public Schools and the Kansas City Missouri Public School Districts provide education to the majority of students in Kansas City. Since the city is located in both Kansas and Missouri, two separate school districts are required to accommodate the unique situation.

One of the great things about these school districts is that they strive to provide an environment that is perfect for every student’s learning style. They also offer additional classes during the summer months to help prepare kids for the next year. This can help make the transitionfrom one grade to another much smoother. In the end, this helps students get into the groove of learning after starting a new school yearmuch faster than before.

Outdoor Living and Sports

One of the most exciting portions of Kansas City is the different sports teams that call the city home. For example, NFL team Kansas City Chiefs are a popular addition to the city. Baseball fans, however, prefer to take in a Kansas City Royals game. For those who prefer college games, both the University of Kansas and the University of Missouri offer exciting sporting events.

There are also many activities residents of Kansas City can enjoy outdoors on their own. For example, the city is a popular place to take a leisurely stroll to take in the sights. However, for those who are looking for something a bit more exciting, league sports and activities like paintball are also popular options.

Suburbs and Neighborhoods

For those interested in living in a suburb of this great city, there are many to choose from. Each neighborhood has its own amenities and benefits to offer residents. Some of the best ones to consider are Greenway Fields, Stanford Gardens, Sunset Hill and Arnour Fields. Residents of these areas are treated to a high quality of life and an enjoyable atmosphere.

Kansas City is a beautiful city to call home. It is a great place to raise a family and has many enjoyable aspects. All in all, this is a fantastic city to move to. If you are considering moving to Kansas City, be sure to contact us. We will be able to help make your move enjoyable and stress-free.

Landscape of Oklahoma, borken bow Ohlahoma
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Broken What? Everything You Need to Know about Moving to Broken Bow, Oklahoma

So you’re moving to Oklahoma, land of musicals, oil and wheat. While the northwestern part of the state deals with manufacturing and services, you’ll be in the southeastern corner of the state. You’ll be amidst some of the most breathtaking country you’ve ever seen. Rushing rivers and reflective lakes run through forests of majestic proportions. But that’s not all. You get mountains! Broken Bow rests at the foothills of the Kiamichi Mountains which in turn is part of the Ouachita Mountains. If you’re into wildlife, then bring along your binoculars, your cameras and your canvases and paints while you see the bald eagles, mink, bears, bats, bobcats and many more furred and feathered critters.

What about Work?

You’ll have plenty of that. According to livability.com, there are over 2,000 businesses in town, which speaks well of entrepreneurship in the area. Otherwise, all those trees mean paper, lumber, fiberboard, oriented strand board and much more. Huber Engineered Woods, Pan Pacific,Weyerhauser and International Paper are the largest employers in the area. Moving to guides will give you a blurb about employers, but we know you depend on us for a better picture:

  • Tyson foods deals with chickens on farms, feed mills and in processing plants
  • Drive a truck? Talk to Daryl Thomason or Jimmie Tucker
  • Setco makes tires for large machines
  • River Mountain Manufacturing makes log furniture

Of course, UPS and FedEx have a presence in town, speaking well of its entrepreneurial sector.

Is the Food and Shopping Good?

Aside from the usual pizza places and sub shops, wine and beer are the order of the day in Broken Bow. Taste them, buy some and learn more about your new town at Girls Gone Wine or Fish Tails Winery and Vineyards or at Beaver’s Bend Brewery. Home cooking is available from Bunch’s and from Beaver’s Bend Restaurant and Country Store. Feel more like Mexican? Go to Papa Poblano’s. The Oaks Steakhouse and Gifts speaks for itself. Shady Oak Restaurant makes hamburgers like your grandma used to make. Awesome!

Youngblood’s is a boutique shop in Broken Bow with something for everyone:

  • Children’s clothing
  • Vera Bradley jewelry
  • Home décor
  • Fiesta dishes

Anything Else I Should Know?

Most towns offer welcome packages upon arrival. They contain information on schools, churches, change of address forms, doctors, hospitals, and coupons for food, household items and dozens of other things. What you want to know is if anything is happening around town. Oh, yes! You’ll be busy from February clean up to Christmas, to-wit:

  • In June is the Owa-Chita Festival of the Forest
  • The Owa-Chita Art Festival
  • The Owa-Chita Golf Tournament, all at Beaver’s Bend State Park
  • In July is the Idabel Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament
  • Fireworks at Warrior Stadium
  • Watermelon Festival in Valliant
  • Wright City Rodeo
  • September is the county fair most everywhere. In McCurtain County, it’s at the Idabel Fairgrounds
  • Masters of Wood Art Exhibit in Broken Bow
  • The Gem and Mineral Show in Idabel
  • October is all about Halloween. Do it safely on Main Street
  • In November it will be the Beaver’s Bend Folk Festival and Craft Show
  • December of course is all about Christmas. Do it up right at Idabel’s Christmas Parade
  • Or the Christmas Parade in Broken Bow
  • Be sure to catch the parade in Valliant
  • As well as the tree lighting ceremony in Broken Bow

Own a rifle and want to get some hunting in? Are you a fisherman par excellence? Are you the type that walks about communing with nature? Broken Bow’s gotcha covered. Lake Broken Bow has all the bass you can catch: spotted bass, large and small mouth bass and sand bass in addition to crappie and walleye. Rabbit, deer, bears, quail, turkeys, doves and ducks are just a few critters that make hunting fun. You’ll need a guide and a license, though, to do it right, and they are all listed.

So grab your outdoors gear, pack a lunch and get into those mountains! You’ll have plenty of time, because when we move you, all you’ll have to think about is where to go do all these wonderful things! Please do contact us to learn more.

night after moving to tulsa FindCrossCountryMovers
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Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Tulsa, OK

Tulsa is a beautiful city located in northeastern Oklahoma. Currently, it is the second largest city in Oklahoma and the 47th most populous city in the US. As of 2014, the population came in at just under 400,000 within the city limits and an additional 500,000 living in the Tulsa Metropolitan Area. One of the best things about the city of Tulsa is that it has quite a bit to offer its residents. If you are considering moving to Tulsa, here are some things you will definitely want to know.

Economy
The economy in Tulsa continues to be a strong one. The unemployment rate is now at 4%, but there is an expected job growth of 35.50% expected for the next 10 years. Another great thing about the economy of Tulsa is that it is extremely versatile. While one of the main focuses in Tulsa and around the state of Oklahoma is the oil industry, manufacturing plants, customer service facilities and healthcare companies are all huge employers as well.

Housing Market
The housing market in Tulsa is also strong. The city is currently going through many expansions, which is helping to add to the number of homes being bought and sold. The median price of homes is around $150,000 and there are many options out there for homebuyers. Also, homes continue to appreciate and the market appears strong for the future.

School Districts
The Tulsa School District covers most of the students who attend schools in Tulsa city limits. It is responsible for approximately 42,000 students in 86 schools. The most important thing that this school district tries to accomplish is providing quality learning experiences for each student. They also focus on the safety and security of the students as well as teacher effectiveness.

Overall, the schools are fairly successful at providing excellent learning experiences for the students. Over the years, several programs have been developed to better prepare students for the next school year as well as for their college or career years.

Outdoor Living and Sports
Tulsa, as well as the rest of the state of Oklahoma, is definitely a great place to live if you love sports or being outdoors. For sports fans, Tulsa has a number of teams you can support. For example, the Oklahoma City Thunder are located in nearby Oklahoma City and are supported strongly by the people in Tulsa. Teams like the Tulsa Drillers and the Tulsa Oilers also produce exciting games and have a huge following in the city.

When you are looking to get outdoors, the city of Tulsa offers access to hundreds of parks and outdoor activities. There is a water park to enjoy during the summer as well as a huge state fair that is held in September. In addition to this, the state has many beautiful lakes and campsites all within a short trek from Tulsa city limits.

Suburbs
If you are looking to enjoy great city living but don’t want to live in the city, Tulsa has a number of great options. For example, Broken Arrow is located to the south of the city and is one of the most popular suburbs in the Tulsa area. However, you can also choose Owasso, which is located to the north and is rated one of the best places to live in Oklahoma. Along with these options, Jenks, Sapulpa, Sand Springs and Catoosa are all great options.

Tulsa is a vibrant city with a lot to offer. Regardless of the activities you enjoy, you will definitely be able to find them in this beautiful city. If you are looking for the best ways to plan your move to Tulsa, OK, contact us today. We will help make the move as enjoyable and simple as possible.

Aquarium worth moving to Atlanta
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Your Guide to Moving to Atlanta, GA

Atlanta, GA, is one of the most exciting cities in the nation. Not only is it one of the most populated cities, but it has one of the largest metropolitan areas as well. This city is a fantastic option for those making the move to Georgia for a number of reasons. Not only is it a vibrant city but it has ample opportunity for career advancement as well as great education options. If you’ve thought about moving to Atlanta, here are some things you will want to know.

City vs. Suburbs

Naturally, one of the biggest decisions you will need to make is whether you prefer to live in the city or if a suburb is the better option for you. Deciding between these items could affect your school district options, cost of living and the options you have for housing.

Living in the city often means you will have a fast-paced life. However, you will also have great access to public transportation and will often have a shorter commute time. In addition to this, you will also have access to great dining and shopping opportunities.

When you choose an Atlanta suburb instead, you are giving up these benefits. Commutes will be longer and you will miss out on the excitement of the city. However, you will probably find better school districts, less crime, better cost of living and more amenity options when it comes to your home.

Employment

One of the best things about living in Atlanta, GA, is that there is ample opportunity for employment. Many companies located in Atlanta are Fortune 500 companies and the majority are at least Fortune 1000 companies.

Some of the most valuable employers in Atlanta are The Coca-Cola Company, Home Depot and Delta Air Lines. Originally, the city was built around the railroad industry, and this remains a huge part of the current city’s economy. However, in addition to this area, information technology is a huge part of the economic sector in Atlanta.

Things to Do

You won’t have to go far in Atlanta, GA, to find something to do. The city is home to the Atlanta Braves as well as the Atlanta Hawks. Both of these teams are professional teams that play in the city as well as around the nation.

Along with sports, there is also quite a bit of opportunity to experience the arts. For example, Atlanta is known for excellent performances in the areas of art, music and theater. Atlanta has the largest aquarium in the world. Whether you love opera, ballet or dramatic plays, you will find it all in this city.

When you do participate in any of these events, you can top off the evening by enjoying one of the many dining establishments in the area. Residents of Atlanta are able to find just about any food type they can imagine. From small-town diners to classy family restaurants to the finest dining establishments possible, Atlanta has it all. In fact, many of the restaurants in Atlanta have received rewards and certificates of excellence notifications from notable magazines and publications.

Finally, plan your move carefully. Since the South is well-known for its hot weather and humid atmosphere, moving during the fall presents the best opportunity. You should also pay attention to what is going on in the neighborhood you plan to move into. For example, if you are moving into an area with a nearby college, you should avoid moving the day the students will be moving back into their dorms.

This guide will help you make the most of your move to Atlanta, GA. The information is especially helpful for those unfamiliar with the city and who are moving cross-country. To learn even more about the moving process or to determine how we can help with your big move, contact us today.

Live in Nashville
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How to Live in Nashville, TN if You’re Not a Country Music Fan

Moving to Nashville? Moving to guides tend to concentrate on areas of interest, history of the area, infrastructure and commute times. They tell you where to find the best shopping (in Nashville that would be The Avenue Murfreesboro, The Factory at Franklin and Opry Mills Outlet), dining (you would need to check out Arnold’s Country Kitchen, The Stillery and The Palm) in addition to attractions (we’ll get to that later). However, in such guides you won’t find how to live in Nashville if you live and breathe rock and roll. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by your move to Nashville, when you find great places that host rock bands.

A Little History

Nashville wasn’t always Music City USA or The Country Music Capital of the World. Once upon a time in a galaxy far far away, Jimi Hendrix lived and learned his craft in Nashville. The Nashville of the mid-20th century was a mix of big band, fledgling rock and roll, jazz, blues and folk music genres. Hendrix played most of it in the bars and venues of the city. Rock and roll, though, really got its start with a then little-known fella named Elvis Presley, who recorded a minor little tune called “Heartbreak Hotel” in Nashville, along with a guy named Gene Vincent, who recorded a song called “Be-Bop-a-Lula”. And that, boys and girls, is how rock and roll founded Nashville.

RCA Records and Columbia Records established major studios in Nashville, hosting the likes of Bob Dylan, who recorded there in the mid-60s. The Municipal Auditorium and the major studios were home at that time to not only Dylan, but Simon and Garfunkel, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, Peter Paul and Mary, Manhattan Transfer and the Byrds. Nashville at that time was about a style. Each performer perfected his style in Nashville, which is where modern folk music as well as rock and roll evolved. Today, Nashville enjoys shows by The Moody Blues, Bob Seger, Molly Hatchet and Rush. Rock and roll is far from dead in Nashville.

But Where Can I Hear It?

While your family is planning how to get to work on the Briley Parkway, I-40, I-65 and I-24, you’ll be planning how to get to the venues featuring live bands. The Municipal Auditorium, The Ryman Auditorium and The Tennessee Performing Arts Center are all downtown and feature full-on rock concerts. However, during the week and on weekends when no major bands appear in these venues, there are still plenty of places to hear good rock music:

If you want to hang out with professionals and college students, then you’d be in the right place at Tin Roof (615)313-7103), where the liquids and music are of the best.
If you prefer a more laid-back, bohemian atmosphere, then you’d be right at home at Mercy Lounge (615-251-3020). Retro gaming equipment, comfortable couches and curved bars make this venue a little less formal than other venues. It’s just as old as the Ryman and the Opry and has hosted many big name performers in its time.
Throwdown Rock Bar (128-A 2nd Avenue North). Self-explanatory.
The Basement at 1604 8th Avenue South has seen big names, up-and-coming names as well as local bands wow ‘em.
The Exit/Inn has also known famous bands as well as local performers and about-to-make-it-big names. It, too, has a history that you will want to check out (615-321-3340).
Bonus: The heart of the Nashville music scene is Broadway. Yes, there’s a boatload of country music to be found there, but rock music has its place as well on this most famous of streets. Walk from bar to bar and venue to venue checking out the different sounds and styles. One or more of them is sure to capture your fancy.

You Mentioned Attractions

Most everyone knows about Centennial Park and the Parthenon, the replica of a classical Greek museum, with its island hosting a fighter plane, lovely grounds and its band shell, in which groups of all types play on Sunday afternoons. And most folks love to go on the tours featuring ante-bellum houses with their history and beauty. A tour of Fort Nashborough is absolutely imperative if you are going to live in the city. However, history isn’t all there is to Nashville. For instance, the Cumberland River flows through parts of the city, highlighting some of its more interesting history. Paddle-wheelers take tourists along the river, explaining the town’s beginnings. There’s a lot of beauty to be seen aside from the history of the town:

Are you a water freak and own dozens of water craft? The Harpeth River winds in and around the city. Go tubing on a sunny day and have some fun!
Nashville and Clarksville are good places to go hang-gliding, if the air is more home to you than water. Also check out Music City Zip-lines
Rent a bike or take your own on a tour of the green spaces in the city. There’s up to 500 square miles of Nashville with which to become acquainted
Prefer clubs and balls? Nashville is chock full of golf clubs with the most perfect greenways you ever saw!
Moving to guides only tell you the basics. You can count on us to give you the real nitty-gritty about your chosen city. When you need the best movers ever, give us a call or contact us to learn more.

Reason why you should consider moving to Plano, Texas
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9 Things to Know About Moving to Plano, Texas

As one of the larger cities in Texas, Plano is increasingly popular as a destination for those moving to the state. With a population of nearly 270,000 people, Plano is not situated far from Dallas. This makes it a desirable location not only for residents, but also for corporations to set up headquarters. Are you moving to Plano? This moving guide will help you prepare.

1. The weather is not abnormal.

The climate in Plano is considered humid subtropical. This means that you can expect cold winters and hot summers, extended into the negative temperatures in January. Still, most precipitation falls in the spring month of May.

2. Plano receives a lot of visitors.

The majority of visitors to Plano are there on business, thanks to the high number of corporate headquarters situated in the city. Additionally, Plano has its own conventions center that hosts events.

3. Some of your favorite companies are based out of Plano.

Planning to work in Plano? You could end up working for one of your favorite Texas-based companies. Headquarters and large offices in Plano include those for Capital One, Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, Dell Services, FedEx, Cinemark Theatres, JCPenney, Frito-Lay, and Toyota.

4. Plano is home to plenty of parks.

If you love outdoor recreation, Plano is a fantastic place to live. Bob Woodruff Park offers 321 acres of space, and Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve offers 801 acres. The spaces are accessible via bike trails. Plano even offers its very own dog park.

5. Plano Independent School District serves the majority of Plano, Texas.

Recent growth has expanded the school system, and enrollment has increased significantly in the last 20 years. In Plano, high school is divided into two separate institutions where 9th and 10th grade students attend one school and 11th and 12th grade students attend another. Plano West has an especially good reputation for overall quality, but Plano Senior and Plano East rankly well too.

6. Four college campuses are located in Plano.

Collin College offers two campuses in the city. Additionally, Southern Methodist University also has a graduate university campus that focuses on computer science, engineering, and business. West Plano also hosts a Dallas Baptist University satellite campus for undergraduate and graduate students.

7. Public transportation is widely available.

Plano is part of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system, which offers bus lines and a light rail line. This makes commuting easier for those who use Plano as a suburb and work in Dallas. The Red Line and Orange Line both travel to Dallas, and the Cotton Belt Rail Line extends to Southern Plano specifically. Whether you commute outside the city or just want to forego the car every once in a while, the DART system is quite helpful.

8. Plano has easy access to the airport.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is actually just 30 miles from the city. This reinforces Plano as the perfect destination for companies to set up shop. This also makes Plano a good city if you are a frequent traveler and want to have easy access to a major airport.

9. There are quite a few famous people from Plano.

If you move to Plano, you may be in good company. NFL players like Justin Blalock, have lived in the city. NASCAR driver James Buescher and Dallas Cowboy Michael Irvin have also lived there. Other Plano alumni include actor Chace Crawford, actor Hunter Parrish, and Olympic gymnast Nastia Liukin. Of course, many successful businesspeople also call Plano home.

Does Plano sound more appealing now? With so much to experience in the city, it only makes sense. Do you have questions about making your move to Texas happen? Contact us to learn about your options.