American migration patterns are changing as people seek more affordable housing and communities, North American Van Lines reports.
That’s according to the moving company’s 2024 Annual Migration Map, an annual report using state-to-state movement data to highlight trends in U.S. population movements.
There have been significant changes in top inbound and outbound states in 2024, according to the report. Continuing a trend seen in 2023, Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina are seeing an increase in inbound movers. But Idaho is now ranked as the top inbound state, and Georgia as no. 2, replacing Arizona and Florida for the top spots. Southern states have the biggest inbound population shifts.
California was the top outbound state, outranking Illinois for the first time in 10 years. The rising cost of living and the current mortgage rates are likely the cause for California’s top outbound numbers, according to the report. New Jersey replaces Minnesota on the top five outbound state list.
South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee have seen the biggest increase in inbound migration for the last three years. Cities including Greenville, Charlotte and Nashville are attractive for those seeking affordable housing and family-friendly attractions, the report authors write. Dallas and Raleigh, North Carolina, were also on the top inbound cities list.
While still popular, remote work has declined as a motivator for population trends. Many people are returning to work or using to a hybrid work model. As a result Dallas is growing more popular as a moving destination.
Individuals and families are leaving high-cost cities like San Diego, Los Angeles and Seattle and moving to areas with affordable housing and lower living costs.
But the results of the recent election are causing Americans to rethink their moving plans for the coming years. There was a significant decline in the number of moves in 2024. Interstate moves were down 8% in 2024 compared with 2023.
North American Van Lines predicts that rising living costs and mortgage rates will continue to drive migration trends in 2025 and beyond. A mortgage rate decrease could change that, however, the company said.
