Do's + Don'ts For The Relocating Nanny Professional

So, you’ve found a nanny position that feels like a dream. The family is fantastic, the responsibilities are right up your alley, and it sounds like an incredible opportunity for growth. The only thing is… it’s in a completely different city or state.

Relocating for a job can be a thrilling, life-changing adventure, and we are here to cheer you on every step of the way. Many amazing families are willing to help with the financial side of moving to bring the right caregiver into their home. But before you start looking at moving trucks, it’s worth taking a moment to make sure this giant leap is the right one for you.

A successful move requires more than excitement; you need a solid handle on the practical realities of uprooting your life. Let’s walk through it together.

The DO'S

DO: Consider The Fit

This one’s about the job, and only the job. It's easy to get swept up in the idea of a new city, but the most beautiful view in the world won't make a mismatched role feel right. Ask yourself if the family’s caregiving philosophy aligns with yours. Are the duties and expectations a good match for your skills and career goals? Make sure you’re saying "yes" to the position itself, not just the new zip code.

DO: Get Real About The Day-to-Day

Okay, now let's talk about the location. Sometimes a dream job is in a bustling city, and other times it's in a quiet town that isn't on any "top 10" lists. Your job is to figure out if you can build a life you love there. Before you get too far, ask yourself some honest questions about what your life will actually feel like once you’re there:

• What will my community look like? How will I meet people and build a support system outside of work?
• What does an average Tuesday night look like for me, and can I recreate that sense of comfort in a new environment?
• Am I truly emotionally ready for a huge transition right now? Moving is a big deal, and it’s okay to recognize if the timing isn’t quite right.

DO: Talk About Money 

Talking about money can feel awkward, but getting clear on expenses from the start is one of the kindest things you can do for your future self and the family.

When you're working, some costs are a normal part of the job and should be covered by the family. Think mileage on your car for running errands with the kids, tickets for museum trips, or groceries you pick up for the household. But your personal expenses—like your cell phone bill, your own groceries (unless you've agreed to share meals), or that weekend shopping trip—are on you.

So, What About Relocation? What's Reasonable to Ask For?

This is a big one. If you're moving for a job, it is absolutely fair and standard to ask for help with relocation costs. But the key here is understanding what’s reasonable. A family is investing in bringing you, their new employee, to their city. They aren't expected to fund a cross-country move for your entire extended family and menagerie.

What does a typical relocation package look like?

• For Live-In Roles: The focus is on getting you and your essential belongings there. This often looks like a one-way plane ticket, mileage reimbursement if you're driving your own car, or a stipend (maybe $1,000-$5,000, depending on the distance) to cover a small moving truck, a flight and a couple of checked bags, or shipping a few boxes of personal items. It’s for your clothes, books, and things that will make your new room feel like home. It’s not for shipping a four-poster bed, a grand piano, or your entire Beanie Baby collection. The expectation is that you’re moving into a furnished room.
• For Live-Out Roles: Because you’ll be taking on the cost of housing, a family might offer a more substantial relocation package to secure the right person. This could include the things mentioned above, plus a larger stipend to help with the security deposit and first month's rent on an apartment, a nearby Airbnb or hotel while you settle in, or temporarily living with them until you’re able to find the perfect nearby spot to hang your hat.

Think of it this way: what's reasonable is asking a family to cover the costs directly related to you starting your job. What's not-so-reasonable is asking them to pay for moving you, your mom, your horse, and your hedgehog. Keep your request professional and focused on your own transition, and you'll find most families are happy to help make your move as smooth as possible.

DO: Communicate Openly + Document Everything 

Clear communication is your best friend during this process. As you and the family finalize the details, make sure every single thing is captured in your work agreement. We’re talking compensation, your specific duties, your start date, and a detailed breakdown of any relocation benefits being offered. Having everything in writing isn’t about a lack of trust; it’s about creating clarity and making sure everyone is on the same page, which protects you both.

DO: Create a Master Timeline 

The best way to tackle a huge project is to break it down into smaller, manageable steps. Work backward from your start date and create a calendar with deadlines for everything:

• Giving notice at your current job
• Notifying your landlord
• Scheduling movers or booking travel
• Forward your mailing address
• Arranging for storage if needed
• Transferring utilities, car registration, and healthcare

Pro-Tip: A shared document or calendar with the hiring family for key dates can be a game-changer for keeping the logistics smooth and transparent.

DO: Expect The Unexpected 

Even with the most perfect plan, moving is unpredictable. Flights get delayed, boxes take a scenic route, and unexpected challenges pop up. A willingness to adapt and roll with the punches will be your superpower. Stay organized, but also give yourself a little grace when things don’t go exactly as scheduled.

The DON'TS

DON'T: Romanticize the Location Over the Role 

This is the flip side of considering the fit. Working in a cool new city is a fantastic perk, but it’s just that—a perk. Your primary role and commitment is to the children you’ll be caring for. The family is hiring you for your professional skills and your ability to support their kids. Make sure you’re genuinely excited about the job itself, not just the idea of living somewhere new. While you’ll definitely have time to explore, your main focus will always be your responsibilities to the family.

DON'T: Think You Need to Take Everything You Own

Packing for a relocation, especially a live-in role, is an art form. Your mantra should be: essentials and comforts. Before you start, ask the family what will be provided. Will you have bedding, towels, or hangers? Knowing this can save you a ton of space. Focus on your professional wardrobe, important documents, and a few small things—photos, a favorite blanket—that will make your new space truly feel like your own.

This means leaving large furniture and unapproved appliances behind. If it's a shorter-term role, look into storing items with family, friends, or in a small storage unit. If it's a permanent live-out move, the cost of moving your belongings should be a part of your relocation expense conversation with the family.

DON’T: Think “Relocation Package” Means They’ll Pay To Move Your Antique Grand Piano Across The Country

This is a big one. If you're moving for a job, it is absolutely fair and standard to ask for help with relocation costs. But the key here is understanding what’s reasonable. A family is investing in bringing you, their new employee, to their city. They aren't expected to fund a cross-country move for your entire extended family and menagerie.

DON'T: Overlook the Unique Logistical Details

Every city, no matter how similar it may seem to another, possesses its own unique character, rhythm, and set of unspoken rules. What might be considered a negligible detail in one location can profoundly impact daily life and overall satisfaction in another. For a relocating nanny professional, understanding these subtle yet significant differences is not just a matter of convenience, but a crucial element in a successful transition and long-term placement. A few examples to consider include: 

• Transportation: If you’re moving to a walking-heavy city, will you have to sell your car or pay for expensive parking? If you don’t have a car, is there reliable public transport to get you where you need to go on your days off?
• Cost of Living: Do a quick search on the average cost of rent, groceries, and gas. An hourly rate that feels great in one city might feel tight in another.
• Climate: Are you prepared for six months of snow? A year-round humid climate? Thinking about it now can save you a lot of surprises later.

From traffic patterns and public transportation availability to local cultural norms and even the cost of living for seemingly minor expenses, these "quirks" collectively shape the lived experience in a new environment. Don’t forget to factor them into your decision. 

DON'T: Underestimate the Emotional Strain of Moving

A move is a profound life transformation, far beyond a mere list of chores. It means creating distance from the people, places, and routines that make up your support system. Think through what that really means for you. Nannying requires you to be present and emotionally available, and you deserve to step into a new role feeling grounded and ready, not stretched thin by worrying about what you’ve left behind.

Here are a few things to think through:

• Your People: How will this move impact your partner, your close friends, and your family? Have you had open conversations about what staying connected will look like?
• Your Pets: Is your new home (especially if it’s a live-in situation) equipped to welcome your furry friend? Have you researched the costs and logistics of moving them safely?
• Your Stuff: Relocating, especially if it is a live-in role, often means you can't take everything with you. Are you prepared to downsize or put things in long-term storage? What are the absolute must-haves that you need to feel at home? Be realistic about what you can bring and what you might have to leave behind.

DON'T: Apply If You’re Not Ready to Commit 

When you apply for a relocation position, the family is trusting that you are fully prepared to make the move if you’re offered the job. If you have any serious doubts or know there’s a major obstacle that could prevent you from showing up on your start date, it’s better to hold off. Being upfront and honest with yourself—and potential employers—is always the best policy.

DON’T: Let Us Scare You

We know this is a lot to think about, but don’t let it scare you! We’ve seen so many nannies embark on relocation journeys that have been absolutely incredible and life-changing. The truth is that if you are well-prepared, responsible, and flexible, you’re setting yourself up for the adventure of a lifetime!

Ultimately, this level of preparation is what sets you free. It's the thoughtful, professional approach that allows you to step into a new city and a new role with confidence. By thinking through these details now, you're not showing doubt—you're proving you have what it takes to handle the big stuff, so you can be fully present for the little moments that make this career so rewarding.

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