People move for many reasons—job prospects, housing market challenges—both in and out of the state they originate from. While there's no predicting what makes an individual migrate, country-wide data may show us emerging patterns.
In the StorageCafe analysis of the latest migration trends, each U.S. state was looked at to see the moving patterns of people. The analysis determined the number of net newcomers (those moving to a state minus those leaving) per 1,000 residents. Additionally, StorageCafe considered several indicators as to why Americans are moving to new regions.
Top 10 U.S. States People are Moving to
Here are the states and their representations of net migration per 1,000 residents. Below are the top 10 states that people are moving to.
1. Idaho
25 newcomers per 1,000 residents
Average rent: $1,595 | Median home value: $366,120
Known for its stunning landscapes, Idaho is a mountainous state with famous attractions like Shoshone Falls and the picturesque Sun Valley. Agriculture, particularly potatoes, plays a significant role in the state's economy.
At the top of StorageCafe's list, Idaho draws people in with its relatively low cost of living, outdoor recreational activities, and a growing tech sector—making it an attractive destination for those seeking a balance between career and lifestyle.
2. Vermont
24 newcomers per 1,000 residents
Average rent: $1,903 | Median home value: $270,708
Renowned for its charming small towns and vibrant fall foliage, Vermont is a New England gem. It embraces a strong sense of community, offers excellent skiing in places like Stowe, and boasts a reputation for producing high-quality maple syrup.
Ranked second for states people are moving to, Vermont attracts individuals looking for a picturesque setting, a strong sense of community, and opportunities in industries such as agriculture, tourism, and artisanal crafts.
3. Montana
18 newcomers per 1,000 residents
Average rent: $1,578 | Median home value: $319,228
Big Sky Country, as Montana is often called, is celebrated for its expansive wilderness, including Glacier National Park. With a rich cowboy heritage, the state offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the untamed beauty of the American West.
Montana's appeal lies in its wide-open spaces, outdoor adventures, and a growing economy—making it stand out as the third state people are migrating to. Job opportunities in sectors like tourism, energy, and healthcare make it appealing for those seeking a more rugged and independent lifestyle.
4. South Carolina
15 newcomers per 1,000 residents
Average rent: $1,567 | Median home value: $208,903
Steeped in history, South Carolina is known for its antebellum architecture in cities like Charleston and its beautiful coastal areas, including Myrtle Beach. The state hosts the renowned Masters golf tournament and embraces a vibrant culture influenced by Gullah traditions.
In number four, the warm climate, diverse job market, and a lower cost of living make South Carolina an alluring destination. From manufacturing to technology, the state offers economic opportunities while retaining its historic charm.
5. Maine
15 newcomers per 1,000 residents
Average rent: $1,852 | Median home value: $251,469
Known for its rugged coastline, lighthouses, and lobster fisheries, Maine is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Acadia National Park showcases the state's natural beauty, while Portland combines a thriving food scene with historic charm.
Sitting in the fifth spot on the list, individuals often move to Maine for its natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle, and thriving arts scene. Tourism, fishing, and the healthcare industry contribute to the state's economy, attracting those who value a slower pace of life.
6. Nevada
14 newcomers per 1,000 residents
Average rent: $1,512 | Median home value: $371,642
Home to the iconic Las Vegas Strip, Nevada is synonymous with entertainment and casinos. Beyond the bright lights of Vegas, the state offers diverse landscapes, including Red Rock Canyon and the vast desolation of the Great Basin.
Nevada attracts residents with no state income tax, a growing job market, and a robust entertainment industry. The state's booming tech sector and diverse landscapes further contribute to its appeal, leaving Nevada at the sixth spot.
7. Arizona
12 newcomers per 1,000 residents
Average rent: $1,611 | Median home value: $330,065
Famous for the Grand Canyon, Arizona's landscapes range from the saguaro cactus-filled deserts to the ponderosa pine forests of Flagstaff. Phoenix, the state capital, is a hub of culture, while Sedona is renowned for its red rock formations and spiritual atmosphere.
Arizona's strong job market, particularly in healthcare, technology, and aerospace, coupled with its sunny climate and diverse recreational opportunities, make it a go-to destination for people seeking both career advancement and a warm, outdoor-centric lifestyle.
8. North Dakota
12 newcomers per 1,000 residents
Average rent: $1,044 | Median home value: $219,939
Known for its vast prairies and agricultural production, North Dakota offers a quieter, more rural way of life. Theodore Roosevelt National Park preserves the rugged badlands and honors the conservation legacy of the former president.
Industries in energy, agriculture, and healthcare draw people to North Dakota, which sits at the eighth spot. For some, the reasonable cost of living, strong sense of community, and expansive landscapes draw them to stay.
9. Tennessee
9.9 newcomers per 1,000 residents
Average rent: $1,482 | Median home value: $232,630
Steeped in musical history, Tennessee is the birthplace of blues in Memphis and country music in Nashville. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities, and the state's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its diverse cuisine and vibrant arts scene.
In number nine, Tennessee's affordable living, vibrant cultural scene, and a growing job market in industries like healthcare, music, and technology make it a popular choice for those seeking a mix of career opportunities and a rich cultural experience.
10. Oklahoma
9.6 newcomers per 1,000 residents
Average rent: $979 | Median home value: $167,039
Combining Native American heritage with the spirit of the Old West, Oklahoma features the vibrant city life of Tulsa and the cowboy culture of places like the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. The state is also known for its unpredictable weather and the musical legacy of the historic Route 66.
With its low cost of living, diverse economy, and central location, Oklahoma attracts people looking for job opportunities and a welcoming environment in both urban and rural settings.
To read the full StorageCafe analysis, visit storagecafe.com
Related Stories
Data Centers | Sep 15, 2023
Power constraints are restricting data center market growth
There is record global demand for new data centers, but availability of power is hampering market growth. That’s one of the key findings from a new CBRE report: Global Data Center Trends 2023.
Contractors | Sep 12, 2023
The average U.S. contractor has 9.2 months worth of construction work in the pipeline, as of August 2023
Associated Builders and Contractors' Construction Backlog Indicator declined to 9.2 months in August, down 0.1 month, according to an ABC member survey conducted from Aug. 21 to Sept. 6. The reading is 0.5 months above the August 2022 level.
Contractors | Sep 11, 2023
Construction industry skills shortage is contributing to project delays
Relatively few candidates looking for work in the construction industry have the necessary skills to do the job well, according to a survey of construction industry managers by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and Autodesk.
Giants 400 | Sep 5, 2023
Top 80 Construction Management Firms for 2023
Alfa Tech, CBRE Group, Skyline Construction, Hill International, and JLL top the rankings of the nation's largest construction management (as agent) and program/project management firms for nonresidential buildings and multifamily housing work, as reported in Building Design+Construction's 2023 Giants 400 Report.
Giants 400 | Sep 5, 2023
Top 150 Contractors for 2023
Turner Construction, STO Building Group, DPR Construction, Whiting-Turner Contracting Co., and Clark Group head the ranking of the nation's largest general contractors, CM at risk firms, and design-builders for nonresidential buildings and multifamily buildings work, as reported in Building Design+Construction's 2023 Giants 400 Report.
Giants 400 | Aug 31, 2023
Top 35 Engineering Architecture Firms for 2023
Jacobs, AECOM, Alfa Tech, Burns & McDonnell, and Ramboll top the rankings of the nation's largest engineering architecture (EA) firms for nonresidential buildings and multifamily buildings work, as reported in Building Design+Construction's 2023 Giants 400 Report.
Giants 400 | Aug 22, 2023
Top 115 Architecture Engineering Firms for 2023
Stantec, HDR, Page, HOK, and Arcadis North America top the rankings of the nation's largest architecture engineering (AE) firms for nonresidential building and multifamily housing work, as reported in Building Design+Construction's 2023 Giants 400 Report.
Giants 400 | Aug 22, 2023
2023 Giants 400 Report: Ranking the nation's largest architecture, engineering, and construction firms
A record 552 AEC firms submitted data for BD+C's 2023 Giants 400 Report. The final report includes 137 rankings across 25 building sectors and specialty categories.
Giants 400 | Aug 22, 2023
Top 175 Architecture Firms for 2023
Gensler, HKS, Perkins&Will, Corgan, and Perkins Eastman top the rankings of the nation's largest architecture firms for nonresidential building and multifamily housing work, as reported in Building Design+Construction's 2023 Giants 400 Report.
Apartments | Aug 22, 2023
Key takeaways from RCLCO's 2023 apartment renter preferences study
Gregg Logan, Managing Director of real estate consulting firm RCLCO, reveals the highlights of RCLCO's new research study, “2023 Rental Consumer Preferences Report.” Logan speaks with BD+C's Robert Cassidy.
