Americans are reshaping the nation’s population map, with a clear trend emerging: people are moving to states offering affordability, jobs, and a better quality of life, and away from those burdened by high costs and stagnant growth. Recent data from multiple moving companies—including MoveBuddha, U-Haul, and United Van Lines—confirms this pattern, which began during the pandemic and is now solidifying into long-term demographic shifts.
The Rising Destinations
Several Southern states are leading the influx of new residents. This isn’t random; these states offer a compelling combination of factors that address key concerns for many Americans.
South Carolina is seeing particularly strong interest, especially in cities like Myrtle Beach and Greenville. Warm weather, coupled with lower property taxes and relatively affordable housing, attracts both retirees seeking a comfortable lifestyle and remote workers looking for lower expenses.
North Carolina has recently surpassed 11 million residents, driven almost entirely by inbound migration. Expanding job markets in Raleigh and Charlotte, along with reasonable housing costs, make it a magnet for families and professionals fleeing higher-priced states.
Tennessee continues to rank high for one-way moves, with cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga offering an attractive mix of affordability, outdoor recreation, and no state income tax. This combination is proving “sticky,” as many new residents choose to stay long-term.
Georgia, especially Atlanta, maintains its popularity due to a robust job market and an expanding tech sector. Despite rising costs, housing remains comparatively affordable compared to other major metropolitan areas.
Arkansas is quietly becoming a destination, driven by a pro-business climate, affordable housing, and improving infrastructure. Cities like Bentonville, Little Rock, and Fayetteville are attracting both companies and workers.
The States Losing Residents
The outbound states share a common thread: high costs, taxes, or limited economic opportunities.
California remains the top outbound state, with sky-high housing, traffic congestion, and heavy taxation pushing residents toward more affordable options. Even middle-income families are being priced out, as housing costs outpace wage growth.
New Jersey has topped outbound lists for six consecutive years, with 64% of movers leaving the state. Job changes, family reasons, and lifestyle preferences drive this exodus, mirroring national trends.
Illinois continues to experience net population loss, with nearly 140,000 residents leaving between 2020 and 2024. The state’s economic challenges and high taxes make it less competitive in attracting and retaining residents.
Louisiana leads in outbound moves for the second year running, with 66% of all moves being departures. Residents are relocating to neighboring states with stronger job markets and more affordable insurance rates.
Why This Matters
These shifts aren’t just about personal preferences; they reflect fundamental economic realities. Americans are prioritizing affordability and opportunity. The states gaining population are often those that have made strategic investments in business-friendly policies, lower taxes, and infrastructure development. The states losing residents are grappling with unsustainable costs and declining competitiveness. This trend is likely to accelerate as economic pressures intensify, forcing more people to seek better value in their living arrangements.
The data underscores a simple truth: people move where their money goes further and their opportunities are greater.
