Doesn’t it sound so wonderfully glamorous? When someone says, “I split my time between New York and Los Angeles”, visions of a trendy artist pad in Tribeca and a beach house in Santa Monica float to mind. And it’s true, it could be a very glamorous life… if you have the funds to sustain it.
There are many ways the bi-coastal thing can look. With the volume of production taking place outside of Los Angeles ever increasing, many people in the entertainment industry are just going where the work is.
If you’re fantasizing about doing the bi-coastal thing, here’s a few key factors to consider.
What’s Your Why?
The first question to ask yourself is, “Why do I want this”? and “What do I want to achieve from it”? Are you looking to experience the other coast? Explore a new market? See how the other half lives? Answering these questions will get you on track to planning; perhaps doing a three month sabbatical to the other coast is a better fit rather than up-ending your current life to start over in a new city. Or maybe a fresh start in a new market is what you’re looking for. Knowing what you want will significantly change how your approach the move.
The Gypsy Life
This may seem like an obvious one, but consider the impact of your move on your family. What does your family look like? Is it just you? You and your cat? Are you in a relationship? Maybe you have kids?
If you’re not alone in this decision, communication is key. When it’s not just you, your move is going to impact your family. Even for a kitty cat, a move (or moving constantly) can be traumatic.
The Financial Costs
Whether you’re heading cross-country for three month sabbatical or to set up a second home, it’s gonna cost.
If you’re going the sabbatical route, you can consider subletting your current abode to help cover costs in your absence – though keep in mind it’s often against the terms of a rental agreement to sublet so best to double check, lest getting busted.
If you’re making a more permanent move, airfares, extra luggage or shipping, U-haul trailers and gas can add up into the thousands.
If you’re planning on maintaining two residences, keep in mind that not only rent but also utilities will be doubled.
The Social Costs aka FOMO
Ahhhh, the old “fear of missing out” could quickly become the actual feeling of missing out. It can be bad enough when you’re stuck at work while your friends are partying at the beach. But imagine if your friends are partying at the beach, celebrating your bestie’s birthday and you’re not only at work but you’re at work on the other side of the continent! Yeah, FOMO.
Of course, you’ll make new friends in your new home but it can take time to establish deeper connections. Be patient and keep a balance between staying connected to new friends and keeping in touch with the old ones.
Some friends (or family) may not understand your choices. And that’s okay. That’s life. More importantly, this is YOUR life. Do you.
If you’re truly bi-coastal then you’re always going to be missing out on something somewhere, but the payoff is getting to immerse yourself into diverse cultures and enjoy friends everywhere you go. You’ll get to the point where you’re always going home, no matter which way you’re flying.
Making Money
Depending on what you do to supplement your income, you’re probably going to need to find some kind of survival thrival job. If you’re regularly bouncing between locations, this may not go down well with some employers. So get ready to get creative and look for places that provide a good deal of flexibility with scheduling. Ask around to your fellow thespians, especially in New York, a lot of actors are away 1-6 months of the year working regional theater gigs, so may have some insight into flexible jobs.
Even if you’re lucky enough to have your own business, unless you’re completely location independent (which is IDEAL!) then you will probably need to build a client base in both locations which can take time.
Cars vs Subways
Got a car in LA and considering a move to NY? If you aren’t planning on driving out and using your car in NYC (and why would you, the subways are amazing), then consider what you’ll do with your car while you’re away. If you’re leaving your car behind, remember the cost of maintaining your car (registration, insurance etc) won’t go away just because you’re out of town. Gonna sell your car? Know that you’ll probably need to buy a new one when you get back.
So. Much. Stuff.
Then there’s allllll that stuff… Remember my column from last month? My advice? Simplify, man! Even if you’re going to sublet while you’re away, the less stuff and clutter you have, the better.
And if you’re bouncing back and forth, traveling light like a good little jetsetter, be prepared to not have that perfect scarf to complete your outfit, needing to buy a new sewing kit, or not have that perfect button down for that self-tape audition you get to submit – because most of your clothes are back on the other coast. What about a printer for your scripts?
#FirstWorldProblems, I know, but challenges nonetheless.
Legal Minutia
For the purposes of taxes, health insurance, benefits such as unemployment, and any state specific union benefits, you will probably need to maintain a primary residence state.
These things have a bazillion variables, so know your situation and know what your requirements are.
Decisions. Decisions.
All in all, it’s a big decision with lots of considerations. And like any decision, there’s no right or wrong choice, just a different path. Be real with yourself, and honest about what’s truly important. Make friends with your fears and don’t let them bridle you.
Then leap, whichever way you choose. And love.
Good luck!!
Jas xo