Top 5 States and Cities Shaping 2025 Migration Trends
Peak moving season is coming to a close, and new migration trends are emerging. As 2025 comes to an end, we're taking a closer look at the mid-year data for top inbound and outbound states in the United States. Understanding migration trends and moving data helps individuals make better decisions when it comes to relocating.
Here's a quick look at the data we've gathered so far:
Moving Industry Trends for 2025
At North American Van Lines, we have our eyes set on three key trends for 2025. We're seeing a significant uptick in inbound migration to the Sun Belt, and three of the five states experiencing an increase in inbound migration are part of it. These states are affordable, offer a high quality of life, and have great year-round weather.
We're also seeing a shift from major cities to smaller metro areas. These areas are more affordable and still provide that balance between work and play that many people prefer over small-town lifestyles.
Lastly, the cost of living is still a top concern for individuals in the United States. Many people are seeking job opportunities and buying homes in states because they are more affordable.
Top Inbound States
Our current migration map data is based on 2024 numbers. In 2024, we experienced significant shifts in data for inbound and outbound states. While Tennessee, South Carolina, and North Carolina have been in the top five since 2020, Idaho was a new addition for 2023 and 2024. As we look forward to the mid-year data for 2025, there are some slight changes and similarities to previous years.
Idaho
Idaho is a popular state to live in due to its affordability. You can expect to pay less for housing, taxes, and everyday essentials. This state is deeply ingrained in nature and the outdoors. No matter where you choose to live, you can enjoy breathtaking views of mountains and a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Minnesota
In 2024, Minnesota was replaced on the Migration Map by New Jersey, but as we watch the data unfold in 2025, we expect this state to be one of the top five this year. Major cities in Minnesota have continued to maintain an impressively low unemployment rate and a strong job market throughout the last few years. There are countless job opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and mining, which is part of the appeal of moving here.
North Carolina
Lifestyle and affordability are the two driving factors of inbound migration to North Carolina. Several large cities in North Carolina offer a high quality of life. If you enjoy the city lifestyle but can't afford housing and everyday expenses, Charlotte and Raleigh are great, affordable alternatives to consider.
South Carolina
South Carolina has affordable housing that's significantly lower than the national average. The weather is also mild and pleasant year-round, so you don't need to trade in your flip flops for snowshoes every winter. The affordability and mild climate make South Carolina a top choice for new families and retirees.
Tennessee
Affordability is the key driving factor for inbound migration to Tennessee. Part of the appeal of living in Tennessee is that there's no state income tax. The cost of living in Tennessee is also significantly lower than in other major cities, so residents enjoy more of their monthly paychecks. Living here, you can also enjoy endless entertainment and outdoor activities.
Top Outbound States
The outbound state data has stayed relatively consistent throughout the years. 2025 was the first time in 10 years that Illinois was outranked by another state in outbound data. While many of the outbound state migration trends and numbers have stayed consistent through 2025, there are a few key changes worth noting.
California
Many individuals and families are saying goodbye to California to live in more affordable cities and states. You can expect to pay more for housing, everyday essentials, and entertainment in California. While the state has a booming job market across various sectors, many find it challenging to maintain their lifestyle while living here.
Illinois
Illinois is one of the most expensive states to live in in the Midwest. You can expect to pay more in property tax, sales tax, and income tax than in most states in the United States. These small expenses can start to add up over time, which is why many individuals are leaving Illinois to settle in neighboring states.
Maryland
Maryland wasn't a top outbound state in 2024, but it is one of the states in which North American Van Lines has noticed a significant increase in outbound movement. Over the years, many residents have continued to be priced out of cities, suburbs, and neighborhoods. Basic everyday expenses and housing costs continue to increase, leaving many to consider relocating to more affordable areas in the United States.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has one of the highest property taxes in the United States, which makes owning a house less affordable. This state is also known for its harsh winters, so many retirees and families retreat to warmer climates in the Sun Belt.
Texas
Texas has always been considered an affordable alternative to California and Illinois. However, over the years, major cities in Texas have continued to see a steady increase in housing and cost of living. While small towns and cities on the outskirts remain affordable, we predict a small uptick in outbound migration, as more individuals choose to move South. Texas, part of the Sun Belt, is experiencing an uptick in outbound moves this year, showing a mix of regional trends for the area.
Top Inbound Cities
Our predictions for this year are similar to what we saw in 2024. However, we expect Boise, Idaho, to become a popular option in 2025 and beyond.
- Boise, ID: Boise is a fast-growing city with a population of less than 300,000 residents. Its proximity to nature, fast-growing job market, and smaller metro popularity make it one of the best places to live in 2025.
- Charlotte, NC: Charlotte, NC, has continued to experience an increase in inbound migration over the last three years. The low cost of living and great year-round weather make it an attractive option for families, retirees, and recent college graduates.
- Nashville, TN: Nashville is a vibrant city in Tennessee, with career opportunities in various sectors and endless entertainment for recent graduates and newlyweds.
- Raleigh, NC: If you love southern hospitality, you'll love Raleigh, NC. This city has secured its spot on our list of top cities to move to in 2025. The quality of life, mild climate, and booming job market offer endless opportunities for individuals looking to settle down and start a family.
- Dallas, TX: While we predict Texas to see a significant increase in outbound migration, we believe Dallas will still see inbound migration. Dallas has experienced rapid growth over the years and has a booming job market.
Top Outbound Cities
Here's a quick look at the top five cities we predict will see the biggest increase in outbound migration in 2025:
- Los Angeles, CA: The cost of living in Los Angeles has continued to increase over the last few years. Many locals and residents are unable to afford buying a home, leaving many to retreat to more affordable cities that offer a better quality of life.
- San Diego, CA: The average cost of buying a home in San Diego is $982,733, which is out of reach for most locals.
- Houston, TX: Houston residents must always be prepared for hurricanes, flash floods, and extreme weather in the city. While the city is affordable, many individuals are leaving to settle somewhere offering more peace of mind.
- Chicago, IL: The rising cost of living, extreme weather, and crime rates in Chicago have caused many residents to explore other nearby cities in the Midwest.
- Washington, DC: Political uncertainty, government layoffs, and the rising cost of living have pushed many Washington, DC, residents to leave the city. With the rise of remote work, we expect this trend to continue in 2025 and beyond.
Our 2025 migration map is set to release at the end of the year. Explore our migration map for a full breakdown of key trends and insights.
