- About 7.5M Americans moved to a different state in 2023, a number that’s stayed relatively stable over the past 10 years. However, moving within the same state is on a downward trend, dropping to just above 9% of the population in 2023.
- Seven out of the top 10 best states for net migration are in the South.
- Texas overtakes Florida for the first time in 10 years, becoming the nation’s top state for net migration, with over 137K newcomers.
- California, New York and Illinois continue to lose residents, but the rate of population loss decreased in 2023 compared to the previous year.
- Smaller states, including North Dakota, Idaho, Delaware and Vermont, are attracting large numbers of newcomers relative to their populations.
- Gen Z and millennials are tied for state-to-state migration across the U.S., with around 2.2M from each generation relocating to a different state.
- Those moving long distance are far more likely to work remotely than the general population: 20% versus 14%.
- Homebuying remains a priority for long-distance movers: In 2023, 39% of those who moved to a new state became homeowners within their first year.
Today’s moving trends seem to be increasingly driven by necessity rather than lifestyle. According to the latest U.S. Census data, Americans are moving less frequently than they used to, with a staggering 87.9% of the population staying in the same home year after year — a notable rise from the 85.1% reported a decade ago. This slower pace of moving seems to be mostly driven by a big drop in local relocations.
Local moves — often discretionary and fueled by desires to upgrade to a better neighborhood or larger home — are now at historic lows. Relocations within the same state have dropped significantly, from 11.9% of the population in 2014 to just 9.1% in 2023, equivalent to 30 million people.
Long-distance moves, however, are frequently driven by necessity, such as finding a job, affording a home or improving quality of life. These motivations remain strong despite rising costs of living, keeping state-to-state relocations on a steady trajectory. In 2023, approximately 7.55 million Americans moved to a different state, representing 2.3% of the population. While this marks a slight dip from 2.5% in the previous year, it aligns with prepandemic migration patterns.
Why are Americans moving less?
Among the major factors behind the moving slowdown is worsening affordability, particularly in popular locations, as well as the rising costs of insurance and property taxes. The “lock-in” effect caused by persistently high mortgage rates has also added to the mix, making many homeowners stay put rather than give up their lower-interest mortgages for costlier ones.
The cost of changing homes itself is another barrier. Moving has become more expensive than ever, with costs driven up by higher fuel prices, labor shortages and supply chain disruptions. Local moves now typically cost between $400 and $1,000, while cross-country moves for a two- to three-bedroom home can range from $8,000 to $11,000, according to United Van Lines.
Yet, for those who do move, the motivations are compelling. Many people are drawn to places where their money stretches further, offering larger homes, better neighborhoods and improved lifestyles. Others are driven by the promise of new career opportunities, warmer climates or the chance to retire near family.
With state-to-state migration having a big impact on the economy and housing market —redistributing talent, shifting consumer demand and even influencing industries like self storage, which is largely driven by moving — we wanted to see which states are doing a better job at attracting and retaining residents.
Our analysis looked at the number of people moving to a different state, ranking states based on net migration, both overall and relative to each state’s population.
We also explored who is moving and the possible reasons behind the moves, looking at factors like age, income, education level, employment status, homeownership rates and home price differences between origin and destination states. By piecing together this data, we aimed to uncover what drives Americans to make long-distance moves — and where their newfound dream homes had been waiting.
Who’s moving state-to-state in the US? Gen Zers, catching up to millennials
The primary drivers of long-distance moves in the U.S. are millennials and Gen Zers, each accounting for nearly 30% of all state-to-state relocations in 2023. These younger generations are actively chasing career opportunities, affordable housing and new experiences. In comparison, Gen Xers and baby boomers represent a much smaller share, at 12% and 11%, respectively, as they are typically more settled in their careers or retired.
Gen Zers generally favor states such as the two Carolinas and Arizona, where they can get access to dynamic job markets and laid-back, comfortable lifestyles. Millennials, on the other hand, are highly attracted by states such as Texas and Florida, that make it easier for newcomers to prosper financially.
State-to-state movers tend to be educated, with 37% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Their annual income slightly underperforms the national average ($57,600 versus $59,100), reflecting the fact that many long-distance movers are young professionals still establishing their careers.
Remote work is another characteristic, with 20% of long-distance movers working remotely, compared to just 14% of the general population.
While most people who move to a different state are renters (49%), roughly 39% of those who moved to a different state in 2023 bought a home within their first year of settling in, reaffirming our chasing of the American dream and the significant role that housing affordability plays in relocation decisions.
Southern US unrivaled in attracting the most Americans on the move
The southern United States is still ahead in the state-to-state moving game, with seven states in the region among the top 10 hotspots for net migration, joined by a few other relocation hotspots in the Mountain West and Midwest regions.
The winning states capitalize on a combination of affordability, economic opportunity and lifestyle appeal. Lower housing costs are a key draw, especially for younger generations and families looking to stretch their incomes. Many of these states also feature lower tax burdens, job growth in emerging industries like tech and health care and an overall lower cost of living.
Urban centers in these regions are also stepping up, offering amenities and cultural experiences that were once the domain of coastal cities. These include vibrant dining scenes, outdoor recreation and growing arts communities. Coupled with the flexibility of remote work, these factors make relocating to less densely populated, affordable states an increasingly attractive option for many Americans.
In 2023, Texas surprisingly overtook Florida as the nation’s top state for net migration, ending Florida’s 10-year reign. This shift is largely due to a sharp drop in net migration to Florida, which fell from 238,000 in 2022 to 137,000 in 2023 — a decline of nearly 100,000. Meanwhile, Texas maintained a steady influx of new residents, allowing it to narrowly claim the top spot.
1. Texas
- Net migration: 138K

Texas has been a leader in domestic migration for over a decade, but 2023 marks the year it officially became the top state for net migration, with nearly 138,000 more people moving in than leaving. The Lone Star State attracts relatively young and well-educated newcomers, with an average age of 32 and over one-third holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
The new Texans are also quick to climb the property ladder — 37% purchased a home within their first year of relocating. This trend is particularly pronounced among the 98K Californians who moved to Texas in 2023. With homes in Texas almost 60% less expensive compared to California, it’s no wonder that 46% of these former Golden State residents bought property soon after their arrival.
Texas is also drawing tens of thousands of new residents from nearby southern states. In 2023, around 50,000 Floridians relocated to Texas, motivated by significant savings on housing costs — homes here are about 22% less expensive.
Similarly, about 30,000 residents from Oklahoma and Louisiana made the switch. While housing in these states is more affordable than in Texas, the moves are largely driven by better economic opportunities.
Even New Yorkers are making the leap, with 30,000 moving to Texas in 2023. For these transplants, the decision often comes down to costs: Relocating from New York to Texas can save them a significant 30% on housing costs.
2. Florida
- Net migration: 137K
For nine consecutive years, Florida has been the undisputed leader in net migration, consistently welcoming over 100,000 newcomers annually. The pandemic further accelerated this trend, with 2021 and 2022 setting record highs of 208,000 and 238,000 net arrivals, respectively. Florida’s outdoor lifestyle and warm climate offered a much-needed escape during a challenging time. However, as the pandemic subsided, so did migration rates. In 2023, the state still attracted a substantial 137,000 net new residents — a decrease from prior years but a testament to Florida’s enduring appeal.
New Yorkers continue to be the largest group migrating to Florida, with over 72,000 making the move in 2023. Many are retirees — 28% are part of the baby boomer generational group — primarily drawn by Florida’s reputation as a retirement haven. Over half of the New Yorkers relocating to Florida buy homes shortly after arriving, benefiting from housing costs that are, on average, almost 10% lower than in New York. Florida’s appeal extends beyond New York, attracting tens of thousands from neighboring East Coast states. In 2023, over 35,000 New Jersey residents relocated to Florida, enjoying an even greater housing discount of approximately 17%. Similarly, Pennsylvania sent over 28,000 residents, many of whom are high-earning young professionals with an average income of $80,000. Nearly 39% of Pennsylvanians work remotely, taking full advantage of Florida’s lifestyle benefits.
Florida’s draw isn’t limited to the Northeast. Georgia contributed over 44,000 new residents in 2023, while Texas ranked third among domestic migration sources. For residents of these states, the move to Florida often comes with higher housing costs, yet the family-friendly atmosphere, outdoor opportunities and economic prospects make the trade-off worthwhile.
Californians are also increasingly relocating to Florida, with over 37,000 making the move in 2023. For them, the difference in housing prices is particularly striking — homes in Florida are 48% less expensive than in California. This affordability has enabled 52% of California transplants to purchase a home soon after arriving.
3. North Carolina
- Net migration: 111K

With affordable living costs and the economic powerhouse of the Research Triangle (Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill) driving innovation and offering high-paying jobs, North Carolina ranked third nationally for net domestic migration gains in 2023. The state welcomed 111,000 net newcomers, 38% of whom became homeowners shortly after relocating.
Florida was the largest source of new residents for North Carolina, with approximately 39,000 Floridians making the move in 2023. New York followed closely, contributing over 32,000 newcomers. Both groups are drawn by North Carolina’s significantly lower housing costs. Floridians enjoy homes that are almost 20% less expensive, while for New Yorkers the savings are even greater, with homes in North Carolina being 27% less expensive.
Interestingly, homeownership rates differ notably between the two groups. While 50% of Floridians who moved to North Carolina purchased homes within their first year, only 22% of New Yorkers took the same step, reflecting differing financial priorities or transitional phases for the two populations.
4. South Carolina
- Net migration: 72K
With a booming economy driven by the automotive, aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries, alongside its rich cultural and natural attractions, South Carolina has solidified its place as one of America’s top relocation destinations. In 2023, the state welcomed over 72,000 net newcomers. While it remains a favorite for retirees, South Carolina is now increasingly attracting younger generations.
About 30% of the state’s new residents in 2023 were Gen Zers, drawn by a strong job market and a housing market that, while growing by 52% over the past five years, remains affordable compared to other states. Approximately 46% of these newcomers purchased homes within months of arriving.
Neighboring states — North Carolina, Georgia and Florida — contributed the most to South Carolina’s inbound migration, with Gen Zers leading the way. Many of these young movers are likely searching for a smoother path to homeownership, as housing in South Carolina remains significantly more affordable compared to their states of origin. For instance, Floridians relocating to South Carolina save nearly 28% on housing costs, a compelling reason for their move.
5. Georgia
- Net migration: 62K
Georgia, the fifth consecutive southern state to rank among the top in net migration, continues to see strong population gains fueled by its thriving economy. Industries such as logistics, technology, film and entertainment and health care have driven decades of impressive growth. Combined with low taxes and a probusiness environment, the state attracts companies that create job opportunities — and, in turn, new residents. In 2023, Georgia welcomed 62,000 net newcomers, with millennials making up the majority.
Florida and Texas were the largest sources of inbound migration to Georgia, contributing 56,000 and 22,000 newcomers, respectively. California ranked third, with 21,000 residents making the move. Among these groups, Texans were the youngest, with over one-third of them belonging to Gen Z. Californians, on the other hand, had the highest percentage of remote workers — 25% compared to 16% of Floridians and 19% of Texans.
Former Californians are purchasing homes in Georgia at a remarkable rate, with nearly half buying property within their first year. The 55% average home price difference between California and Georgia provides a strong financial incentive, allowing many to quickly settle into homeownership.
6. Arizona
- Net migration: 57K

Arizona is attracting a wave of young, educated residents, drawn by its thriving job market in sectors like technology and renewable energy, as well as its year-round outdoor lifestyle and affordable living costs. In 2023, about 26% of Arizona’s newcomers were Gen Zers, eager to take advantage of the state’s economic opportunities and recreational offerings. Some 44% of all new residents purchased homes shortly after relocating.
California tops the list of originating states for inbound migration to Arizona, contributing 52,000 new residents in 2023. Nearly half of these Californians purchased homes shortly after their move, spurred by home prices that are 43% less expensive in Arizona. Also, a significant 27% of the working newcomers are doing so remotely, thus making the most of their new life in the state.
Texas and Florida also sent newcomers to Arizona, with 18,000 and 13,000 arrivals, respectively. However, for these groups, the motivation appears to be less about housing affordability — since homes in Arizona are more expensive than in both states — and more about the state’s economic opportunities and lifestyle advantages.
7. Indiana
- Net migration: 32K
Indiana, the first midwestern state in the rankings, has seen its net domestic migration fluctuate over the past decade. However, 2023 marked a significant turnaround, with the Hoosier State tripling its net inbound migration. Affordable housing and living costs, combined with a laid-back, nature-friendly lifestyle, are drawing Americans — particularly younger generations — to the state. Gen Zers make up a third of Indiana’s newcomers, and 36% of all new arrivals are purchasing homes soon after relocating.
Illinois leads the list of states sending new residents to Indiana, with 27,000 making the move in 2023. Many of these Illinois transplants are leveraging remote work opportunities — 26% report working from home — and nearly half (46%) became homeowners within their first year in the state.
Florida, somewhat surprisingly, ranks as the second-largest source of newcomers, with 14,000 relocating to Indiana in 2023. Floridians benefit from Indiana’s housing market, which is 41% less expensive on average. However, only 37% of these new arrivals purchase homes immediately, suggesting they may be taking their time to explore options before committing to long-term residence.
8. Colorado
- Net migration: 31K
After a rare setback in 2022, when it lost nearly 7,000 residents through domestic migration, Colorado bounced back in 2023, registering a net inbound migration of nearly 31,000 people.
Although Colorado is the country’s sixth most expensive state to buy a home, it now ranks as one of the best states for attracting and retaining newcomers. In fact, it is the only state among the top ten for net migration where newcomers from the primary originating state pay more for housing than in their state of origin.
The feat is perhaps less surprising considering that the state is a mecca for remote workers, coming in third for attracting the largest number of people working from home in 2023. About 27% of employees relocating to Colorado are remote workers, and a significant 43% of them have higher education. For many of those, as well as other high-income earners, Colorado's quality of life and signature blend of natural attractions and outdoorsy lifestyles often outweigh affordability.
Texas is the main supplier of newcomers to Colorado, with over 34K leaving the Lone Star State in 2023 to relocate here. A significant 38% of them are millennials, Also, 44% of all the newcomers hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, showcasing the strong appeal that Colorado’s job market is holding at the moment. Even if home prices in Colorado are 85% higher than in Texas, no less than 40% of them became homeowners shortly after relocating. California, Florida and Arizona are other states sending significant numbers of people to Colorado.
9. Tennessee
- Net migration: 28K
Tennessee continues to rank among the top 10 states for net migration, driven by its robust economy and favorable cost of living. Industries such as automotive, logistics, entertainment and manufacturing anchor the state’s growth, with cities like Nashville, Memphis and Chattanooga serving as major employment hubs. The lack of a state income tax and relatively affordable living costs further add to Tennessee’s appeal. In 2023, the state recorded a net inbound migration of 28,000 people.
However, this marks a significant slowdown compared to previous years. In 2022, Tennessee saw a net influx of nearly 47,000 residents, and during the pandemic’s peak in 2021, that number soared to almost 69,000.
California remains the largest source of newcomers to Tennessee, with 26,000 residents making the move in 2023. Among them, 52% purchased homes within months of relocating, taking advantage of Tennessee’s more affordable housing market. The 58% price difference between homes in California and Tennessee provides a strong incentive for these transplants to settle quickly.
Florida sent nearly 21,000 new residents to Tennessee in 2023, with Gen Xers making up the largest portion of this group. Texas ranked as the third-largest source of inbound migration, contributing a significant number of Gen Zers, who accounted for one-quarter of all Texas-to-Tennessee movers.
10. Oklahoma
- Net migration: 25K
Oklahoma secures its spot in the top 10 states for net migration, welcoming over 25,000 new residents in 2023. Millennials are the best-represented generation among newcomers, accounting for 27% of the influx. The state’s affordability plays a significant role in attracting these residents, with 36% managing to purchase homes during their first year in Oklahoma.
Texas is by far the largest source of new residents for Oklahoma, with more than 32,000 Texans making the move in 2023. Gen Zers make up 30% of this group, likely drawn by Oklahoma’s lower housing costs, which are a significant 30% less than in Texas.
California and Colorado round out the top three states sending newcomers to Oklahoma. Among the 6,300 Colorado transplants, 38% are baby boomers, highlighting Oklahoma as an appealing retirement destination. Remarkably, 79% of these former Coloradoans purchased homes shortly after relocating.
The usual suspects: California, New York are losing the most residents
California, New York, Illinois and New Jersey have now endured 10 consecutive years of population decline due to domestic migration. While these states continue to experience net losses, 2023 brought some encouraging signs, as the rate of negative migration slowed significantly compared to previous years.
California recorded a net loss of 259,000 residents in 2023, a 34% improvement over 2022. Millennials accounted for the largest share of those leaving, with an average reported income of $64,000 — slightly below the state’s average of $68,000. About 42% of outgoing Californians were homeowners, many heading to states like Texas, Arizona and Nevada, where housing markets are far more affordable. These migrants often gain access to larger or more luxurious homes or can maintain similar lifestyles while saving significantly.
New York saw a net loss of 187,000 residents in 2023, down from 248,000 in 2022. Like California, the state’s population decline appears to be slowing down. Many New Yorkers leaving the state are seeking more affordable housing and opportunities in states with lower living costs.
Illinois and New Jersey experienced net losses of 90,000 and 67,000 residents in 2023, respectively. Both states face a consistent challenge: young people. Over a third of those leaving each state are Gen Zers, and this youth-driven migration trend could have long-term implications for their economies and demographics.
Where does domestic migration have the biggest impact? The Carolinas and North Dakota lead in net migration wins per capita
When it comes to domestic migration, sometimes it’s not just about the numbers — it’s also about the impact on local communities. While states like Texas and Florida draw the biggest overall inflows, smaller states can feel the effects of migration much more deeply.
By looking at net migration per capita, we get a clearer picture of how these shifts shape housing markets, job opportunities and local economies. For large states, tens of thousands of new residents might barely make a dent. But for smaller states like North Dakota or the Carolinas, even a few thousand newcomers can significantly influence community dynamics.
This per-capita perspective highlights hidden migration success stories and how domestic moves are reshaping smaller states in big ways.
As the South continues to dominate net migration, a per-capita analysis shows a more evenly distributed success across the country. South Carolina and North Carolina stand out, leading in both total net migration and newcomers per capita. South Carolina welcomed over 13 newcomers for every 1,000 residents in 2023, contributing to a 52% increase in home prices over the past five years. North Carolina followed closely, with over 10 newcomers per 1,000 residents, showing similar growth and economic impacts.
Other states excelling on both fronts include Arizona, Oklahoma and Florida. Each has seen strong overall migration numbers while also registering significant per-capita gains, demonstrating their appeal to Americans seeking affordable housing, job opportunities and lifestyle improvements.
A handful of smaller states reveal surprising trends when examined through the lens of per-capita migration.
Gen Zers drive moving to the Dakotas
North Dakota, with its population under 1 million, doesn’t show up among the top states for net migration — however, in per-capita terms, it ranks second nationally, with almost 11 newcomers for each 1,000 residents. With its affordable housing market and quiet, close-to-nature lifestyle, North Dakota became a veritable magnet for young people — about 58% of those who relocated here in 2023 were Gen Zers.
Idaho also registers significant levels of domestic migration relative to its population: 10 newcomers for each 1,000 existing residents. Gen Zers are the top-moving generation here as well, and half of those who moved to Idaho were successful in becoming homeowners during their first year post-move.
Delaware, with its population hovering just north of 1 million, experienced almost nine newcomers per 1,000 residents in 2023, and an impressive 58% of those coming in purchased a home at their new location.
In New England, Vermont is attracting more than seven newcomers per 1,000 residents, with 46% of those moving here being Gen Zers. Famous for scenic beauty, a focus on sustainability, a healthy lifestyle and progressive values, Vermont aligns closely with Gen Z values. The state also garnered some work-from-home grants during the past few years, which increased its notoriety as an excellent destination for remote workers. In fact, 26% of those who relocated here in 2023 reported that they are working from home.
Nevada also jumps ahead as an attractive domestic migration spot, with almost six newcomers per 1,000 residents in 2023.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, D.C., New Hampshire and New York are losing residents at some of the highest rates relative to their populations. D.C. experienced a negative net migration of 12 residents per 1,000 in 2023, with millennials accounting for nearly half of those who left.
Remote work among key drivers of domestic migration and the self storage boom in Colorado, Florida
The rise of remote work has transformed the way Americans think about relocation. No longer tied to traditional office hubs, many are moving to regions that better suit their budgets and lifestyles. This shift has brought new opportunities — but also new challenges — for those adapting their living spaces to accommodate both work and personal life.
Around 20% of state-to-state movers in 2023 were remote workers, with even higher percentages in D.C. (30%), Connecticut (27%) and Colorado (27%). These areas are among the top destinations for remote employees, drawn by affordability and quality of life.
D.C. continues to draw significant interest from remote workers thanks to its abundant career opportunities and access to urban and cultural amenities. Its proximity to the nation’s policy and consulting hubs remains very attractive, offering remote working professionals access to influential networks and career advancement opportunities. D.C. also boasts a robust infrastructure for remote professionals, including a wealth of coworking spaces and networking events that support flexible work lifestyles.
Connecticut, second nationally by the share of newcomers that report working from home, serves as a bridge between the fast-paced energy of New York City and the quieter charm of New England. For remote workers, the state offers suburban living with easy access to major urban hotspots, strong digital infrastructure and excellent education and health care systems. On top of that, its gorgeous coastal areas offer great opportunities for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Colorado has firmly established itself as a haven for remote workers, thanks to its balanced mix of outdoor recreation, urban development and a thriving economy. Cities like Denver and Boulder provide robust digital infrastructure, while the state’s outdoor scene calls to remote professionals seeking a balance between career growth and an active, nature-centric lifestyle.
Several northeastern states, including Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island and New Hampshire, are also gaining traction among remote workers. These states appeal with their combination of scenic beauty, lower living costs compared to major metropolitan areas and growing remote work-friendly communities, making them ideal for those seeking balance between professional and personal priorities.
Florida and Texas, the country’s main magnets for inbound migration, also rank high when it comes to the share of remote workers making these states their new home. Both states boast no state income tax, offering immediate financial incentives for professionals looking to maximize their earnings, while the warm climate adds another layer of interest, particularly for those leaving northern regions.
While it’s true that remote work brings flexibility and comfort, it also places added pressure on living spaces. Dedicated areas for work, equipment and storage are essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. And with apartment sizes shrinking nationwide, the demand for efficient, space-saving solutions has grown.
In the context of long-distance moves, remote work and increasingly tight living spaces, the self storage industry has emerged as a vital resource for those in need of extra room. States experiencing high net migration among remote workers are particularly well-equipped, offering plenty of storage options away from home but still easy to access.
- Florida leads the way with an impressive 9.3 square feet of self storage per capita, while Colorado follows closely with 8.3 square feet — both far surpassing the national average of 7 square feet per person.
- Other popular relocation destinations, including Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina and Arizona, also feature self storage inventories well above the national benchmark, ensuring plenty of options for newcomers.
For those planning a move, self storage can be a game-changer, providing the flexibility and space needed to make the most of your new home. Explore self storage availability and costs across all U.S. states:
Self Storage Availability and Costs Across all U.S. States
State | Self Storage Inventory (sq. ft. per capita) | Self Storage Street Rate |
---|---|---|
Texas | 11.2 | $117 |
Florida | 9.3 | $139 |
North Carolina | 10.1 | $113 |
South Carolina | 10.3 | $118 |
Georgia | 9.6 | $117 |
Arizona | 8.8 | $121 |
Indiana | 8.1 | $98 |
Colorado | 8.5 | $132 |
Tennessee | 9.8 | $115 |
Oklahoma | 12.8 | $89 |
Idaho | 18.1 | $101 |
Virginia | 8.1 | $138 |
Nevada | 11.5 | $129 |
Alabama | 11.4 | $107 |
Wisconsin | 8.3 | $114 |
Arkansas | 15.0 | $97 |
Delaware | 5.8 | $130 |
Maine | 8.7 | $136 |
Kentucky | 8.0 | $108 |
Mississippi | 12.1 | $116 |
Hawaii | 3.6 | $255 |
New Mexico | 9.7 | $113 |
Nebraska | 8.4 | $98 |
South Dakota | 14.5 | $98 |
Montana | 24.6 | $102 |
Iowa | 7.5 | $103 |
Missouri | 7.8 | $112 |
Connecticut | 5.5 | $141 |
Alaska | 7.3 | $196 |
Wyoming | 15.4 | $96 |
West Virginia | 7.8 | $103 |
Rhode Island | 5.1 | $141 |
Oregon | 8.5 | $143 |
Washington | 8.4 | $154 |
Utah | 10.3 | $122 |
Ohio | 6.4 | $102 |
District Of Columbia | 2.2 | $160 |
Kansas | 7.3 | $112 |
Minnesota | 6.6 | $119 |
New Hampshire | 9.9 | $132 |
Michigan | 6.2 | $117 |
Louisiana | 11.1 | $123 |
Pennsylvania | 5.0 | $128 |
Massachusetts | 4.6 | $155 |
Maryland | 6.1 | $146 |
New Jersey | 4.3 | $151 |
Illinois | 5.8 | $125 |
New York | 3.8 | $173 |
California | 6.5 | $176 |
State-to-state migration isn’t just about where people are moving — it’s also about why. These numbers tell a broader story of economic shifts, changing lifestyles and the search for opportunities. From housing markets to job growth, the patterns of movement across the U.S. offer a snapshot of what Americans value most — and where they see their future.
Below, you can check net migration patterns across the country's 50 states ad the District of Columbia, plus the main factors that are influencing these trends:
Expert opinions
In order to gain a deeper insight into the trends shaping up interstate migration in the United States, we talked to experts in the field.
Cullum Clark, Director, Bush Institute-SMU Economic Growth Initiative, Adjunct Professor of Economics, SMU
What are the primary factors that are driving domestic migration in the U.S. today? Are there any new or surprising trends shaping these movements?
The primary factors driving migration patterns remain the same as they have been for much of America’s history. While individual move for all kinds of reasons, large net flows in one direction almost invariably reflect moves towards some combination of better economic opportunity, better quality of life, and more affordable living costs, particularly housing costs.
The most recent data generally tell us that the two big trends of the last couple decades remain very much intact – (1) moves away from the West Coast, the Northeast, and the Upper Midwest and to the major metropolitan areas of the Sun Belt, from the Carolinas to Arizona and Nevada, and (2) moves from core cities to fast-growing outer suburbs within booming metros. High interest rates since 2022 have slowed these trends somewhat for the moment, since many people feel “locked in” by their low-interest rate mortgages, but as rates decline, they’ll very likely keep moving in the same general directions as they have for many years.
Most recent developments include acceleration of moves into booming metros in the Carolinas – especially Charlotte, Charleston, & Raleigh – while moves into the big Texas metros have slowed a bit from their torrid pace of recent years, reflecting very large increases in housing prices in those cities.
How do you see domestic migration patterns evolving over the next 5–10 years?
I expect the next 5-10 years will mostly look like the last decade. Net migration will very likely continue to be out of the Northeast, Upper Midwest, & West Coast and into the fast-growing metros of the Sun Belt, as well as out of core cities and into outer suburbs.
I expect the best-performing midwestern metros – places like Columbus and Indianapolis – will see some amount of market share gain among destinations, as they’re doing many things right and have a growing housing price advantage relative to places like Austin, Denver, and Phoenix.
Which cities, states, or regions are currently experiencing the greatest impact from domestic migration, and what kinds of challenges or opportunities is this creating for those areas?
The places experiencing the most dramatic net out-migration continue to be large metros in coastal California, Chicago, New York, and most of the Northeast (other than booming Boston). The tragic fires in Los Angeles raise a giant question about how – and indeed if – the burned out areas will be rebuilt. If the city doesn’t treat this disaster as an opportunity to try more housing-friendly policies, at least in the most impacted areas, then the outflow from LA will likely accelerate, since so many people will have nowhere to go. It will all depend on their policies.
Places experiencing the greatest impact from net in-migration are those where inflows have been huge that housing supply could not possibly keep up, so housing prices have moved explosive upwards. This primarily means the Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Phoenix metros, plus several smaller metros in Florida.
Doug Ressler, Business Intelligence Manager at Yardi Matrix
How are recent economic shifts and housing affordability challenges affecting migration patterns across the U.S.?
Amidst ongoing housing shortages and affordability concerns, recent economic and social shifts are having a notable impact on migration patterns. One of the biggest changes for American workers is the persistently low unemployment rate, which has hovered around 4% over the past two years. This tight labor market has given employees more leverage, often enabling them to demand better salaries and increased flexibility. With more options available—and hybrid work models becoming the norm—many are choosing to relocate for new opportunities.
At the same time, skyrocketing housing costs in traditionally expensive markets are pushing families to seek more affordable and spacious alternatives. The Sunbelt continues to attract a significant share of movers, cementing its status as a top migration destination, despite some fluctuations in recent years.
On a more local level, migration patterns are shifting within metro areas. Many residents are leaving core cities for fast-growing outer suburbs or exurbs, where increasing amenities are making the move more appealing. These booming areas are responding to the demand by expanding housing and self-storage options, accommodating the growing influx of new residents.
Methodology
This analysis was done by StorageCafe, an online platform that provides storage unit listings across the nation.
In this report, we ranked all the US states — plus the District of Columbia — based on net migration numbers, calculated as the total number of move-ins to a place minus the total number of departures from that same place.
The migration numbers, as well as the income levels, homeownership status, employment-related information, educational attainment and other demographic characteristics of the people moving across the country, come from the US Census.
To uncover the national domestic migration trends, we used the US Census American Community Survey population data from 2014 to 2023.
To determine state-to-state migration patterns, we turned to the US Census American Community Survey PUMS microdata for 2023.
Additionally, we also we ranked the country’s states based on the number of net newcomers per 1,000 residents.
We obtained median home prices at national and state levels based on 2023 owner-occupied housing unit values from the US Census. Rents are also from the US Census American Community Survey for 2023.
We used data regarding self storage rent prices and availability from Yardi Matrix, StorageCafe's sister division and a business development and asset management tool for brokers, sponsors, banks and equity sources underwriting investments in the multifamily, office, industrial and self storage sectors.
Fair use and distribution
This study serves as a resource for the general public on issues of common interest and should not be regarded as investment advice. The data is true to the best of our knowledge but may change if amendments to it are made. We agree to the distribution of this content, but we do require a mention in return for attribution purposes.