Trying to have it all? You’re not alone. People are searching for a balanced lifestyle, great weather and most of all – a lower cost of living; the good news is they’re finding it.
In the United Van Lines’ 41st Annual National Movers Study some clear moving trends emerge that center around the price of housing and regional climates.
The top inbound states of 2017 were:
- Vermont
- Oregon
- Idaho
- Nevada
- South Dakota
- Washington
- South Carolina
- North Carolina
- Colorado
- Alabama
For the sixth consecutive year, the Northeast saw more people leaving than entering. It was the region with the highest number of outbound moves with 57 percent of moves leaving the region.
It’s no secret that rent and the cost of living are higher in the Northeast than other parts of the country, which is perhaps why they had the smallest presence on the inbound state list.
Alabama made its first appearance on the top 10 inbound states seeing a 55 percent inbound move in 2017. It wasn’t just Alabama making strides either, as the entire Southern region saw a high number of people moving in, with 52 percent of total moves being inbound.
Michael Stoll, economist and professor in the Department of Public Policy at the University of California, Los Angeles, weighs in on the migration trend. “People are moving from higher housing cost states in the Northeast to lower cost Southern states such as the Carolinas and Florida.”
The Carolinas boast plenty of outdoor activities, lower cost of living and a temperate climate, to appeal to those looking for a change of lifestyle at any age, landing them both on the top 10 inbound states this year.
The Western U.S. is also well represented on the high-inbound list. With states like Oregon, Idaho, Nevada, Washington and Colorado making the top ten. Those seeking lower cost of living, especially from high cost states like California, are looking to relocate.
“This year’s data reflects longer-term trends of movement to the Western and Southern states, especially to those where housing costs are relatively lower, climates are more temperate and job growth has been at or above the national average, among other factors,” adds Michael Stoll.
So if relocating to a new home for a lower cost of living tops your wish list, the South and the West are the best bet.
Learn more about United’s 2017 Annual Mover’s Study.
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United Van Lines 2018 National Movers Study Press Release, Map and Data – Download Now
