I usually leave the full street address off a modern resume. In most digital applications, the employer needs to understand location, commuting feasibility, work authorization, or relocation plans—not the candidate’s house number.
I use city and state when location matters
For a local or hybrid role, I normally write “Chicago, IL” or “Austin, TX” in the contact line. That gives the recruiter enough information to assess location without publishing a full home address.
For a remote role, I still include a real location because many employers have state, country, tax, or time-zone restrictions. Writing only “Remote” can hide information the application process needs.
I state relocation plans only when they are genuine
If the candidate is moving, I may write “Relocating to Denver, CO in August 2026” or “Open to relocation.” I do not use a friend’s local address or claim to live somewhere the candidate does not. A false location can create problems during scheduling, background checks, or onboarding.
I protect privacy
A resume may be uploaded to job boards, shared internally, forwarded, or stored for months. I avoid adding a full address unless an employer specifically requires it for a legitimate reason. The application form can collect detailed address information later through a secure process.
I keep all profiles consistent
I compare the resume, LinkedIn profile, portfolio, and application form. If one says New York and another says Florida, the recruiter may not know which is current. I update all public-facing information when the candidate moves.
I handle international applications clearly
For cross-border applications, I include country and, when relevant, work-authorization status. I do not place sensitive identification numbers on the resume. A contact line might read: “Toronto, Canada | Authorized to work in Canada.”
When a full address may still be requested
Some government, academic, local trade, or formal application processes may request a mailing address. I follow the specific instructions when the request is legitimate. I still avoid placing information in an unsecured document when a protected form is available.
Contact-line examples
Local applicant: Jordan Lee | Chicago, IL | phone | email | LinkedIn
Relocating applicant: Jordan Lee | Relocating to Portland, OR, September 2026 | phone | email
Remote applicant: Jordan Lee | Raleigh, NC | Eastern Time | phone | email
What I do not include
- Full street address by default.
- Social Security or national identification numbers.
- Date of birth, marital status, or a photograph unless local norms and laws clearly require it.
- A false local address.
- Several conflicting locations.
My rule is to provide enough location information for the hiring decision while protecting unnecessary personal detail. City, state, and country usually accomplish that.