So Stressed Out! Family of 4 needs to move ASAP!

Bossman

Hey there! My Section 8 worker just told me that I was approved for an increase of my HCV. It increased to a 3 br unit. They are giving me reasonable accommodation because my youngest child needs their own room. I'm so happy and thankful for the increase! Problem is, I have NO IDEA where to move to. We're currently in Southern New Jersey, but I hate it here. So, can any of y'all help me figure out or at least narrow down where I should go? I'm looking for a warmer climate, diversity (we're a multiracial family), a good school district, and being close to healthcare facilities since I'm disabled and my health is not great and I'm ALWAYS at the drs. So, I'm really lost because I've only ever lived here (NJ) my whole life except for a few months in SoCal, which was real nice. Also, I'm on SSI for my disability, so I'm not working. Please help me narrow down where to go. I'm stressing so bad!

CR7FanBase

Jersey is consistently top in public schools, so remember that. It is also one of the most diverse states. I would also remember that section 8 can vary by state. Meaning it’s not a guarantee that it would be transferred to another one. Personal recommendation for someone in your position, from what you described, it would be incredibly silly to move states

David

CR7FanBase

This makes sense. Just look for a three bedroom where you are. This will be easier since you can look at houses without having to travel and you probably know where the good schools are located.

MaxRon

South Jersey is actually a really nice area too. Some areas aren’t as diverse, but there are so many that are, she just has to look. She can even look more north but still stay within the state. It’s not a cheap state to live in but it really has everything

Emilyrose

Actually yes certain section 8 vouchers you can move to any state. When I got mine I could move anywhere. You just have to find a place under the voucher amount. It’s a federal program.

TheOG1

Emilyrose

Not all though. And in my area even those that get vouchers can't find housing because the need is fqr higher than houses (this is same without a voucher too). They only accept applications for the wait list for a month or so every two or three years here in Ohio in my county. There just isn't enough houses or apartments to go around. A local post the other day someone had accepted a job and couldn't make the move due to no place to live. Not sure if other areas are experiencing this or not.

James

Can you just move states with a voucher? I thought you had to restart the process in the other state, get approved, ets. I never knew you could just get a voucher in say tumbleweed Kentucky and just say “LA here I come”

ChamsterXC

It will be challenging to transfer the voucher, find housing in a decent area.

CorusCartel

ChamsterXC

You don’t have to transfer the voucher in some cases. Mine I never have to transfer and can move to any state at anytime. Some you do have to that are attached to a housing authority that requires that. Or a project based voucher and so on. But there are many types of vouchers.

Alexander

Just remember, you’re on SSI and Medicaid and you’ll need to transfer to the new state - IMO- considering your family and health needs, you’ll want to look for a state that has expanded Medicaid.

You’ll also want to put a little money aside so you can visit the area you’re considering and look at actual rental units and their neighborhoods before you make a decision; I would never recommend anyone renting an apartment site on scene using a section 8 certificate because you know you’re gonna have to be there for at least a year and if you make a mistake or don’t do your due diligence or homework, that’s going to be a really long year.

Emma

I think you'd like North Carolina. Very diverse and the more progressive cities are quite safe for a multiracial community and family. I know a lot of Northerners think the South is rednecks, pickup trucks with gun racks and rampant racism and indeed, IT EXISTS, but let's be real it exists everywhere. I kind of appreciate the Southern racist versus the closeted racist because when people make their hate part of their identity it makes it simpler for me to know to stay away from them!Many great cities and towns to live in. I've lived in Wilmington on the coast, Greensboro, Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill (my FAVORITE, where I met my husband but it's a lovely town). My only sorrow in making this recommendation is that NC is in major flux as far as laws that will protect you. They are a pretty "purple" state right now, historically very conservative right wing state that is gradually waking up to liberalism and trying to turn more blue. Personally, I have faith that Tarheels will side with humanity and not war mongering and fascism. Kinda hoping the whole country will. Good luck to you! I'd suggest Maine, where I am now but you don't want winter anymore. I get it!