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
Industry Research | Aug 19, 2021
BD+C Market Intelligence Reports
Exclusive research, data, and trends reports from the editors of Building Design+Construction.
Resiliency | Aug 19, 2021
White paper outlines cost-effective flood protection approaches for building owners
A new white paper from Walter P Moore offers an in-depth review of the flood protection process and proven approaches.
Multifamily Housing | Jul 7, 2021
Make sure to get your multifamily amenities mix right
One of the hardest decisions multifamily developers and their design teams have to make is what mix of amenities they’re going to put into each project. A lot of squiggly factors go into that decision: the type of community, the geographic market, local recreation preferences, climate/weather conditions, physical parameters, and of course the budget. The permutations are mind-boggling.
Digital Twin | May 24, 2021
Digital twin’s value propositions for the built environment, explained
Ernst & Young’s white paper makes its cases for the technology’s myriad benefits.
Industry Research | May 20, 2021
Latest ULI report forecasts robust real estate rebound
It’s going to take some time, though, for the office sector to recover
Industry Research | Apr 9, 2021
BD+C exclusive research: What building owners want from AEC firms
BD+C’s first-ever owners’ survey finds them focused on improving buildings’ performance for higher investment returns.
Market Data | Feb 24, 2021
2021 won’t be a growth year for construction spending, says latest JLL forecast
Predicts second-half improvement toward normalization next year.
Healthcare Facilities | Feb 18, 2021
The Weekly show, Feb 18, 2021: What patients want from healthcare facilities, and Post-COVID retail trends
This week on The Weekly show, BD+C editors speak with AEC industry leaders from JLL and Landini Associates about what patients want from healthcare facilities, based on JLL's recent survey of 4,015 patients, and making online sales work for a retail sector recovery.
Market Data | Jan 19, 2021
2021 construction forecast: Nonresidential building spending will drop 5.7%, bounce back in 2022
Healthcare and public safety are the only nonresidential construction sectors that will see growth in spending in 2021, according to AIA's 2021 Consensus Construction Forecast.
