Relocating for work is a big adventure with many moving parts. Not only are you navigating a new role, but you’re also acclimating to a new routine within a new city and community. Whether you’re flying solo or bringing the whole family, the transition can feel incredibly overwhelming.

Having worked with mobile talent for more than thirty years, we know that what you do and where you stay in the early days of your relocation can greatly impact the speed of your transition to a new location. It’s all about finding that “right at home” feeling, because when you’re comfortable, safe, and empowered with the support you need, you’re free to focus on what matters most!

Here are our top five tried-and-true tips to help you settle in, feel at home, and make the most of your new work location:

#1. Lean Into the Comforts of Corporate Housing

Corporate apartments are thoughtfully designed to ease your transition. They’re move-in ready, which means less stress and more time to focus on what matters.

  • Fully furnished spaces mean you won’t have to scramble to buy furniture or unpack boxes. Just bring your suitcase and settle in.
  • Equipped kitchens let you keep up with your favorite meals and maintain healthy eating habits—especially helpful if you’re traveling with kids.
  • Typically conveniently located close to office locations, you can get a feel for the surrounding area and better assess whether you’d be willing to commute and find a permanent housing solution further from the workplace.
  • On-site amenities like fitness centers, lounges, and workspaces help you stay active, social, and productive.
  • Tech perks such as high-speed internet and streaming services make it easy to stay connected with loved ones and unwind after work.

Think of it as a home base that’s already set up to support your lifestyle while you wait to shift to more permanent housing.

#2. Establish Your Routine Early

One of the best ways to feel grounded in a new place is to create a rhythm. Routines bring comfort and clarity, especially during times of change.

  • Set consistent wake-up and sleep times to regulate your energy and mood.
  • Choose a dedicated workspace in your apartment to mentally separate work from relaxation. Or explore the shared workspace facilities in your building and inquire about any booking systems.
  • Explore nearby coffee shops, parks, or walking paths to build familiarity and discover your new favorite spots.

Even small rituals, like a morning walk or a weekly dinner out, can make a big difference in how quickly you start to feel at home.

#3. Connect with Colleagues

Feeling connected at work is key to a successful relocation. Don’t wait—reach out early and often.

  • Ask HR or your manager to introduce you to local teammates.
  • Schedule casual coffee chats or lunches to get to know coworkers.
  • Join internal social or professional groups to find your community.
  • Attend local office events to build rapport and reduce feelings of isolation.

These connections can turn a new job into a new support system as you learn the lay of the land – inside and outside the office.

#4. Explore Your Neighborhood

Getting to know your surroundings helps you feel more settled and confident. The more familiar your environment becomes, the more it will feel like home.

  • Take a walk or drive to locate grocery stores, pharmacies, gyms, and other essentials.
  • Try out local restaurants or cafes—you might find a new favorite!
  • Use apps like Google Maps or Yelp to uncover hidden gems and read reviews from locals.

Prioritizing exploration of the surrounding neighborhoods/communities early while you’re staying in temporary housing may also help guide where you choose to settle down more permanently. Particularly in urban centers, the feel of a neighborhood can change considerably from block to block!

#5. Prioritize Self-Care

Relocation can be an exhilarating adventure, but it can be both physically and mentally exhausting. Make time to recharge and care for yourself.

  • Use your building’s fitness center to stay active and relieve stress.
  • Cook nutritious meals in your kitchen to fuel your body and mind.
  • Create a calming space for downtime—whether it’s a cozy reading nook or a bubble bath ritual.

Remember that self-care isn’t a luxury: it’s a necessity, especially during big life changes. If you’re relocating with family, your stress and anxiety can easily ripple through the household. Finding ways to recharge and stay grounded will help foster a positive transition for everyone. When you feel balanced, your family is more likely to feel secure and supported, too.

The Bottom Line

For a newly relocated family, corporate housing can be so much more than a place to sleep: it’s a proven tool to support smoother, more productive transitions. By embracing the comforts, building routines, and connecting with your new community, you’ll acclimate faster and start thriving in your new work location.

So, unpack that suitcase, take a deep breath, and prepare to make this new chapter a great one.