Migration trends are influenced by a number of factors: housing prices, quality of life, affordability, job opportunities, even the weather in some cases. If you're contemplating a move, examining America’s top destinations reveals interesting economic, social, and lifestyle shifts that may influence your decision. So whether you’re looking for a new home or simply curious about our changing social landscape, it’s worth asking, "Where are people moving in 2025?"
Based on data from moving agents and the U.S. Census Bureau, it’s clear that the Sun Belt is still the dominant region for out of state moves. The warmer climate certainly plays a role. When asked where they’d prefer to live, most Americans choose sunny states like Florida, California, or Hawaii. However, when asked to list the reasons why they’d consider relocating, weather was number six behind:
This aligns closely with current moving trends, which show people leaving urban centers and moving to suburban or rural communities to escape high-costs. In many cases, people aren’t even looking for better career prospects, just someplace with a good quality of life that they can afford on their same income. This is why so many people moved to small towns during the pandemic. Remote work and hybrid schedules allowed them to escape the hassles and pains that come with living in a big city and adopt a more casual lifestyle out in the country.
Currently, over a third of Americans say they’re considering a move this year. The ability to start over has always been a central feature of the American Dream, so it’s not surprising to find so many people thinking about relocating. Based on history, however, only 8-10 percent of us will actually follow through. The ones that do will probably choose one of these highly sought-after locations.
With low taxes, affordable housing, and plenty of wide open spaces, Texas is a favorite choice for families, retirees, and young professionals. The state’s financial, healthcare, and technology sectors have grown tremendously in recent years, particularly in Austin, Dallas, and Houston, to the point they’re nearly on par with San Francisco and New York. Several outlying communities such as Frisco and The Woodlands have grown as well, mostly due to an influx of remote workers and seniors looking for a quiet place to spend their golden years.
Net migration (the difference between the number of people moving into an area and the number leaving it) was responsible for 95 percent of North Carolina’s population growth over the past four years. The state received over 82,000 new residents in 2024, second only to Texas. Over half (52 percent) moved for either work or family. Another twenty percent moved to retire.
Its main draws are its low-priced housing market and booming economy. Charlotte, the state capital, is the largest banking center in the United States behind New York City. The Research Triangle in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill is a hub for education and healthcare, as well as technology, life science, and pharmaceutical development.
But while these cities have seen the largest increase, several outlying communities near the Blue Ridge Mountains, such as Greensboro and Winston-Salem, have grown significantly as well. Besides offering greater access to the outdoors, these towns play a crucial role in the state’s healthcare, education, technology, and manufacturing sectors, which has helped attract workers from nearby states.
Scenic beauty, affordable real estate, and an expanding job market have made South Carolina one of the biggest hotspots in the United States. Economic growth in Charleston and Greenville have drawn a number of professionals in the healthcare, manufacturing, aerospace, and technology industries.
Greenville is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, an ideal location for anyone interested in pursuing a career outside major metropolitan areas. Charleston, on the other hand, is famous for its historic architecture, culinary scene, and water sports, such as sailing and fishing, which can be enjoyed year-round, thanks to the region’s mild climate.
Myrtle Beach has also attracted a lot of interest, particularly from seniors. Its golf courses, coastal climate, affordable living, entertainment options, and superb healthcare facilities make it an ideal community for older Americans looking for a fun and active retirement.
Like Texas, Florida has no state income tax. So while its home prices are higher than average, it still offers a lower cost of living compared to rival states such as California. This, combined with its warm weather, has made it a top choice for seniors looking to retire comfortably. But older Americans aren't the only ones heading south. Florida has also seen an influx of young, high-earning workers interested in the state's defense, aerospace, energy, and technology industries.
While Miami has experienced the biggest increase, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville have seen significant growth as well. Florida is still recovering from a series of natural disasters that struck in the second half of 2024, which may be why the state added fewer residents last year compared to the year before. Nonetheless, its long-term prospects remain bright.
A thriving economy, beautiful scenery, and low food, utility, and housing costs have made Tennessee an increasingly popular place for movers. Nashville has drawn the largest number of new residents, both for its urban charm and legendary music scene, as well as its career opportunities and relatively low cost of living.
Thousands of skilled workers have also settled in Knoxville and Chattanooga, two of the state's fastest growing technology and manufacturing hubs. The Smoky Mountains and Cumberland Mountains add to the area's appeal. Running through Eastern and Southern Tennessee, just outside Knoxville and Chattanooga, they provide countless opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing.
Allied has been helping Americans relocate since 1928. We’re a full service moving company, providing on-the-ground support for everything from planning to packing to shipping, storage, and final delivery. Read our annual Migration Report to learn more about Allied’s top destinations last year. Or contact us today for a free quote and make sure your move starts on the right foot and ends on the right note.
