Most of the United States is slightly above sea level, meaning many locations have mountainous landscapes. People unfamiliar with these areas may see them in photos and automatically fall in love. But before searching for the best moving companies in Columbus to take you there, there are some things to consider.
From snow and harsher weather to wildlife encounters, mountain life is not for everyone. Here’s a small guide to what life is like at a higher altitude and how to adapt to the different climate.
All You Need to Know Before Moving to the Mountains
Climate
Up high, the weather has a way of becoming ever so slightly more dramatic. The cold is more biting, the winds are whipping harder, and depending on your location, there may be a high risk of wildfire.
To live comfortably in the mountains, you should educate yourself as much as possible about the types of weather that are likely to occur in your area. For example, snow can continue to fall for days in some areas, piling up several feet high.
You’ll want to make the necessary plans and ensure you have everything you need in those situations to ensure a healthy mountain life.
Elevation
Higher elevation means many things: different climates, unique environments, and even less air. The air pressure drops as you climb a mountain because fewer air molecules are in the atmosphere. As a result, you get less oxygen in every breath, making it harder to breathe.
Moving abruptly to the mountains after a lifetime of low altitudes can be difficult, particularly for aging loved ones looking to retire to these quiet areas.
Traffic
Busy cities like Los Angeles or New York may come to mind when you think of traffic. However, small mountain towns suffer from traffic issues, too. Especially during the summer, when tourists flood a town whose infrastructure isn’t designed to handle a large influx of people.
Towns with only one main street running through the center can become busier than Times Square on New Year’s Eve—and make residents consider moving to an even more remote area.
This is also important to consider when you’re planning your move. After all, you’ll want to ensure less traffic and a budget-friendly relocation.
Wildlife
Mountains are home to various wildlife, such as wild turkeys, numerous types of birds, elk, and bears. As a tourist, you may have loved these animals—as a resident, they may become your enemy number 1.
Wildlife will get into your backyard if there’s any leftover food and break trash bags at night looking for scraps. Additionally, you can’t let any small pets wander off. Even in the safety of your backyard, a large bird may come and carry them away.
Distance from Amenities
When you are living that mountain life, a quick trip to the store doesn’t exist. Most mountains are rural by nature, and construction is hard. That’s why commercial development is rare.
You’ll need to get used to making fewer, bigger trips to the store to make sure you have all you need for the week. And if you’re craving a pizza, well, good luck convincing the Domino’s delivery guy to get there!
Learn From the Best Moving Companies in Columbus About Moving to the Mountains
Living in the mountains isn’t easy, but that hasn’t stopped hundreds of Americans from taking the challenge and relocating there! If you’re dreaming of fresher air and the peace of isolation, a mountain area may be a dream come true for you.
Pink Zebra is here to help you start your new life there. Find a location near you and start planning for your new, high-altitude life!