Your address is a key detail on your resume so that employers can understand your location and availability for a role. While it was once common to include a full address, current resume practices provide more flexibility based on privacy considerations and job requirements. This guide outlines how to format your address effectively on a resume.
Templates
Writing the Address on a Resume
Determine Whether to Include Your Address –
While many employers appreciate knowing where you’re located, including your full address isn’t always necessary. Decide based on the job and your comfort level.
- When to include your full address:
If the job specifically asks for it.
When applying for government positions or jobs requiring security clearance.
If you’re applying for a role in a local area and want to highlight proximity. - When to omit or shorten your address:
If you’re concerned about privacy.
When applying for remote jobs where location isn’t relevant.
If the job listing doesn’t request an address.
Use the Correct Resume Format –
Your address belongs in the header or contact details section so employers can locate it easily. Common formatting options:
- Full Address:
123 Main Street, City, State, ZIP Code(for local jobs or when required) - Partial Address (City & State Only):
City, State(for privacy-conscious applicants)
Example Resume Header:
John Stamos
[email protected] | (123) 888-7000 | New York, NY
Decide on a Privacy-Friendly Alternative –
f you prefer not to disclose your full address, use a professional alternative. Examples of privacy-conscious address formats:
- Los Angeles, CA (Just city and state)
- Greater New York Area (For metropolitan locations)
- Remote | Open to Relocation (For remote or flexible jobs)
- Avoid vague descriptions like “USA” unless applying internationally.
Consider the Employer’s Perspective –
Think about how your address might impact an employer’s decision.
- If you live far from the job: Employers may worry about relocation or commute time.
- If you’re applying for a remote role: Specifying “Remote” may clarify expectations.
- If local hiring is preferred: Mentioning your city can work to your advantage.
- Relocating? Write “Currently in NYC, Moving to Los Angeles in March 2025.”
Check for Accuracy and Consistency –
Make sure your address is error-free and matches your other professional profiles. Check for typos and correct formatting:
- Use standard postal abbreviations (e.g., “CA” instead of “California”).
- Avoid unnecessary punctuation or outdated information.
- Match your LinkedIn profile: If your location differs on LinkedIn, update it for consistency.
Adapt for International Applications –
If applying for jobs abroad, modify your address format to match local expectations. Examples of international address formats:
- For USA jobs: 123 Main Street, Los Angeles, CA 90001, USA
- For UK jobs: 123 High Street, London, UK, SW1A 1AA
- For Canada jobs: Toronto, ON, Canada
- For jobs in Europe: Berlin, Germany
- Research employer expectations to maintain proper formatting.
Tips
- If you relocate frequently, consider using a permanent address or a P.O. Box.
- If you’re willing to relocate, add “Willing to Relocate” near your location.
- Always include a reliable email and phone number alongside your address.
- If you have multiple residences, use the one most relevant to the job.
Important
- Outdated addresses may cause communication issues.
- Incorrect ZIP codes can result in errors in background checks.
- Some ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) may require an address field, even if not shown on the resume.
- Never provide an address if the employer explicitly states it’s unnecessary.
FAQs
It depends. If the job listing asks for it, or if you’re applying for a local position, including your city and state is beneficial. For remote jobs, you can omit it.
Yes, many applicants now list just their city and state to maintain privacy while still giving employers a sense of their location.
Yes, especially for remote jobs or if the employer doesn’t require it. Ensure your phone number and email are available for contact.
