The best relocation cover letter writing guide

Discussing your intention or willingness to relocate in your cover letter

As a job seeker, you should always anticipate and answer as many questions about yourself as possible in your initial application, as transparency makes hiring managers feel more comfortable. If you live far from the business, the employer will notice this on your resume and may question why you’re applying. 

This is where a relocation cover letter can help. This type of cover letter is written to an employer telling them about your intention to move within a reasonable distance from the office. 

The purpose of a relocation cover letter is to ease concerns about you living so far away or worries about the reasons for your move. It’s always a good idea to make your intentions and plans known as early in the hiring process as possible, and a relocation cover letter accomplishes that goal.

Types of relocation cover letters

When it comes to cover letter examples, relocation letters aren’t always easy to find. Consequently, you may be unsure about how to approach writing one. 

Every employee’s situation is unique, and the type of relocation cover letter you write and submit should reflect those differences. Fortunately, there are a few types of letters to choose from, each with their own unique approach. 

Relocating for a spouse

It is normal for an employer to inquire about why you are leaving one job and applying for another. Letting a hiring manager know you are relocating to support a spouse eases their concerns.

In the cover letter, you can be straightforward about the fact that you are relocating because your spouse has recently accepted a position in the new location. However, you should also explain why you are personally excited to make the move and what you think you can contribute to the role. 

It’s also a good idea to highlight skills and traits that show how you adapt to new roles and situations. This highlights your strength and resilience, showing the employer that you’ll be able to hit the ground running once you’re hired. 

Relocating for an out-of-state job

Similar to when you’re relocating for a spouse, pursuing relocation for an out-of-state job means clearly stating this fact in your cover letter. Explain what excites you so much about the specific opportunity that you’re willing to relocate for it.

However, it’s important that you don’t put all of your focus on your own dreams and goals. Instead, spend most of the cover letter explaining how your skills and expertise can benefit the organization. This shows the hiring manager that you have sincerely thought about the role and whether you are the right person for it.

Relocating with no ties

Relocating to a new area with no ties highlights your flexibility, adaptability, and tenacity. It’s a good idea to mention this situation in your cover letter in as straightforward a manner as possible. 

You don’t have to mention a lack of family or professional ties. However, you can tell the hiring manager that there are no existing commitments hindering you from giving your full attention to a new role. In the rest of your cover letter, highlight your flexibility, how this can be of benefit to the new employer, and how you are open to dedicating your time and skills to the new role.

When writing this type of relocation cover letter, it’s important that you don’t come across to the hiring manager as flaky or transient. If you have held previous roles for a reasonable amount of time, you should definitely use a resume format that highlights this fact. 

Additionally, showcase in your cover letter your ability to commit to a position. Explain to the hiring manager why you can see yourself staying in this location long term.

Relocation cover letter example

If you’re looking for relocation cover letter examples, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a sample letter you can model your own after:

Tips for writing a relocation cover letter

When writing your relocation cover letter, keep the following best practices in mind:

• Research the company and location you’re moving to so you’ll know how your skills and traits align 
• Mention relocation plans and offer details about your timeline
• Convey professionalism in your tone and formatting
• Focus on the skills and qualifications you bring to the role, not your own desires
• Follow a standard cover letter format that includes no more than four paragraphs
• Consider using cover letter examples for relocation to help you craft your own

These tips can help ensure your job relocation letter is polished, professional, and unique.

Common mistakes in a relocation cover letter

Try to avoid these mistakes to keep your application out of the “no” pile:

• Not mentioning relocation plans at all in the cover letter
• Not being flexible about interview scheduling and format
• Not focusing on the company and how your skills are the right fit for the role
• Not keeping all details concise and avoiding rambling
• Not tweaking cover letter templates to fit your unique situation and needs

By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll cast yourself in a positive light and highlight why you’re the right person for the job.

"The purpose of a relocation cover letter is to ease concerns that the employer may have about you living so far away or worries they may have about the reasons for your move."

Land a dream job in a new place with the right relocation cover letter

When done well, a relocation cover letter lets the hiring manager know why you’re relocating and helps them see your true value. It also highlights how your skills, knowledge, and personal traits can be an asset to the organization.

Writing a relocation cover letter can be challenging if it’s your first time. Consider how a cover letter or resume sample can help you craft a professional application that gets attention for the right reasons. With the help of well-crafted resources, you’ll be well on your way to securing a great job no matter what city you land in.