You must make a choice, to take a chance, to change your life. This is a writing assignment for our readers this month, if you choose to participate. Nick and I will publish your responses with or without your name, as you request, in an upcoming column.
When was the last time you took a serious inventory of your life moves? Think back about the highs and lows, the choices you made, the chances you took, and the changes that evolved from each major decision.
Every choice starts with a motivating factor, something that compels you to make a choice. 1. What are the top 3 reasons you live in your city?
2. What are the top 3 reasons you live in your neighborhood?
3. What are the top 3 reasons you live in your current home?
What are the top 3 changes you would make in your city, in your neighborhood and in your current home?
In 2020, COVID hit worldwide. It caused a global pause, and an examination of living arrangements that resulted in massive relocations and a rise in real estate prices that has continued in the years that followed. Now the tides are turning once again. The affordability factor has affected the demographics in cities across the USA.
The shift in affordability is nationwide, with some states making it more possible for first time homebuyers to achieve the dream of homeownership and those who want more space, and a more relaxed lifestyle.
NorthAmerican Moving Services provides this data on those on the move. 2024 brought new challenges and opportunities for individuals and families. From the rise of hybrid work models to the 2024 election results, there are many reasons why Americans are deciding to pack their bags and move to a new city and state.
In 2024, we saw significant shifts in outbound and inbound state data. While southern states remain a predominant destination for inbound migration, Idaho saw the most inbound moves in 2024. Illinois was also outranked for the most outbound moves by California for the first time in over 10 years. Our data suggests Americans are deciding to wave goodbye to expensive states for smaller cities with plenty of family-friendly fun and a mild climate.
So, where did people move to in 2024? Here's where Americans moved and what these trends say about housing, cost of living and living conditions.
Takeaways from the 2024 Moving Migration Report
While some of the findings of the 2024 Moving Migration Report were expected, a number of others were surprising. Here are some of the top takeaways from the report:
• Move volume (the number of individuals that moved in 2024) decreased 8% compared to 2023.
• Southern states remained primary draws for those moving, with top destinations including South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Georgia.
• California outranked Illinois as the top outbound state for the first time in 10 years.
• Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina have consistently been among the top inbound states since 2020.
• New Jersey replaced Minnesota on the list of top outbound states this year, coming in at #4.
• The most popular day to move in 2024 was Friday, and the most popular month was August.
• COVID-19 restrictions are no longer a concern. However, remote and hybrid work still remain popular.
Owning a home is still possible if you ask the right people.
Whether you’re ready for less maintenance, fewer stairs,or simply a home that fits this new phase of your life. Nick and I specialize in helping homeowners make a thoughtful transition, from preparing your current home for the market to locating your next happy place.
Moving locally, out of state, or outside the US? We’ll connect you to our vast network. We’re here for whatever you need, every step of the way. Let’s talk about your next move on your terms.