The 48th Annual National Movers Study, unveiled by United Van Lines on January 1, 2025, offers an intriguing look into the migration dynamics shaping the United States throughout 2024. This study highlights tendencies observed in interstate relocations, shedding light on Americans’ varying preferences and motivations in their quest for better living conditions, financial relief, and proximity to family. For further details, please visit the United Van Lines website.
The study’s methodology involves examining all residential moves into and out of specific locations and then determining the percentages representing inbound and outbound movements. This analysis permits a broader understanding of migratory trends in various states and metropolitan areas, not merely in terms of total volume of moves but rather the proportion of incoming and outgoing relocations.
Several key factors significantly influenced interstate moves during the past year. Economic concerns were prominent, such as the quest for more affordable housing and lower taxes. Additionally, a newfound emphasis on familial proximity emerged as a significant motivator, guiding people’s decisions on where to establish roots.
A significant change over the past 6 years is regarding moving related to work. In 2018, almost half (47%) of the movers in the survey cited work as a driving factor in their relocation. In 2024, that number decreased to 25%. It is still an important factor but now falls just below being closer to family at 28%.
New York & New Jersey Moving Tends
In the New York and New Jersey regions, more people moved out than in: 59% in NY and 67% in NJ. These are the two of the top three “move-out” states. Following the national trend, retirement and being closer to family were the driving factors.
Interestingly, 20% of the New Jersey outbound moves were to Florida. The study also noted that, of all the people moving into Delaware, 12% were from New York.
Other Highlights from the Study
1. West Virginia Leads Inbound Migration
Emerging as a top choice, West Virginia witnessed a remarkable 66% of its moves being inbound. West Virginia captivated many movers with its array of outdoor pursuits, affordable housing options, and a relatively lower cost of living. The primary reasons for relocating to West Virginia were its closeness to family (35%) and burgeoning job opportunities (31%).
2. New Jersey’s Continued Outbound Trend
For the seventh straight year, New Jersey continued to experience the highest levels of outbound migration, with 67% of moves directed outward. A closer look at the motivations reveals that retirement (22%) and the desire to be nearer loved ones (20%) were key factors, particularly among individuals aged 65 and over. Interestingly, Florida emerged as a favored relocation destination for 20% of those leaving New Jersey.
3. Family Proximity as a Primary Driver
In a noteworthy shift, the desire to be closer to family became the primary driver behind interstate movements for the first time in decades. This factor accounted for 28% of all relocations. Delaware emerged as a significant player in this context, with 36% of incomings motivated by familial closeness and over half of the movers aged 65 or above.
4. Southeast States Gaining Popularity
A noteworthy trend emerged as Southeast states such as South Carolina (62% inbound), North Carolina (60%), and Arkansas (58%) witnessed considerable inbound movement. This underscores a broader preference for less densely populated, cost-effective areas. Cities like Wilmington, NC (83% inbound), Myrtle Beach, SC (80%), and Little Rock, AR (57%) were particularly sought after by relocators.
5. Outbound Migration in the Midwest and West
States in the Midwest and West, including Illinois (60% outbound), Wyoming (57%), and Nebraska (56%), experienced substantial outbound movement. Metropolitan areas such as Cheyenne, WY (73% outbound), Springfield, IL (69%), and Lincoln, NE (59%) notably contributed to these emigration patterns.
6. Economic Factors Influencing Moves
Rising housing costs compelled many Americans to seek more affordable, lower-density environments. This indicates a balancing act wherein people strive to alleviate economic pressures while preserving their quality of life.
7. Balanced States
States such as Ohio and Florida reflected a nearly equal proportion of inbound and outbound moves, indicating a stable migratory equilibrium. Florida, in particular, has sustained its allure, consistently featuring on the inbound states list since 2018, notwithstanding this recent balance.
The findings of the 2024 National Movers Study underscore an ongoing trend where Americans opt for more affordable, family-friendly locales, particularly within the Southeast. Meanwhile, regions in the Midwest and West are witnessing increased outbound migration. Economic challenges and a renewed yearning for familial closeness remain pivotal factors steering these migratory patterns across the country.
