New Resident Checklist | Moving To South Bend, Step By Step

Before You Arrive

Book Your Movers. Summer dates fill 4 to 6 weeks out Our picks →
Line Up Housing. Connect with a local real estate agent or secure a rental Our picks →
Get Pre-Approved. Talk to a local mortgage lender if buying Our picks →
Quote Your Insurance. Indiana auto + home/renters coverage Our picks →
Schedule Internet Install. Book 1 to 2 weeks ahead. See the Setup Guide for providers

Set Up Utilities. Electric, gas, water, trash. See our Setup Guide for exactly who to call
Open A Local Bank Account. Local credit unions often have the best rates Our picks →
Update Your Driver's License. Indiana BMV. You have 60 days to transfer your license and plates
Register To Vote. St. Joseph County Election Board

Find A Dentist. Book a new-patient appointment Our picks →
Choose A Pediatrician. Transfer records from your previous provider Our picks →
Tour Childcare Options. Waitlists move fast, so get on them early Our picks →
Find A Vet. Your pets are settling in too Our picks →
Set Up Home Security. New neighborhood peace of mind Our picks →

Line Up Lawn & Snow Care. Good crews fill their routes early Our picks →
Schedule Pest Prevention. Quarterly plans beat one-off treatments Our picks →
Grab A Car Wash Membership. Road salt season is coming Our picks →
Upgrade Your Ride. All-wheel drive earns its keep here Our picks →

Join A Gym. Beat the winter. Pick one close to home Our picks →
Find Your Salon. Skip the trial-and-error Our picks →
Explore The Food Scene. Start downtown and work outward Our picks →
Find Your Coffee Shop. Where a new city starts feeling like home Our picks →
Visit A Church. Most have newcomer groups Our picks →
Shop Local. Downtown boutiques beat the big boxes Our picks →
Check Out The Breweries. The East Bank district is walkable Our picks →