The desire for closer familial connections and better affordability is shaping relocation decisions in 2024, according to the National Association of Realtors latest Migration Trends report. Nearly a third (30%) of recent movers cited proximity to family and friends as their top reason for choosing a new area, followed by the chance to get more for their money (21%). These factors outweighed other considerations such as taxes, safety, and job location, which were also noted as key motivators.
NAR found that the South emerged as the most popular destination this year, attracting 46% of movers. States like Florida, Texas, and North Carolina topped the list of net migration gains in 2023, with Florida alone seeing nearly 373,000 new residents. Movers to the region were particularly drawn by favorable tax rates, while those heading West sought larger homes for the price. Conversely, Northeastern movers were more likely to prioritize proximity to their jobs.
"It is no surprise that the Sun Belt states continue to attract movers within the U.S., but this report helps to highlight just how much the draw to be close to one's friends and family drives a relocation," Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research said. "Home buyers continue to seek areas where their support systems are around them."
The association of realtors also found regional differences in the type of relocations. Clients moving to the South and West often came from different states, while Northeastern relocations tended to occur within state lines. Nationwide, most movers stayed relatively close to home, with 21% moving within the same city and another 42% relocating elsewhere in their state.
The trend of prioritizing affordability extended to homebuyers’ preferences. Outdoor space, additional square footage, and quieter neighborhoods ranked among the top reasons for selecting specific properties. These priorities were especially significant in the Midwest and Northeast, where outdoor amenities and larger homes were more accessible.
Remote work influenced decisions for many movers, with 43% reporting job location as irrelevant to their choice. Only 2% cited a return-to-office mandate as their reason for moving, underscoring the enduring impact of remote flexibility.
With affordability and familial ties at the forefront, these migration patterns reveal not only where Americans are moving but also why. This flow is likely to persist as families and retirees prioritize lifestyle benefits over proximity to workplaces, NAR said. These shifts underline a growing emphasis on quality of life, suggesting that housing markets in family-friendly and affordable regions will continue to thrive.