Top 10 Cities People Are Moving to Right Now
By William David
June 18, 2025
2 min read
Wondering where everyone’s heading in 2025? We’ve analyzed nationwide data — from moving trends and job growth to lifestyle perks — to reveal the top 10 cities Americans are relocating to right now. Whether you're seeking better cost of living, booming job markets, or warmer weather, these cities are leading the charge. Dive in for detailed stats, real resident reviews, cost comparisons, and tips to help you choose the best fit for your next big move.
How We Chose These Cities
Our rankings are based on a mix of proprietary moving data, U.S. Census migration reports, real estate market trends, job growth rates, and cost-of-living metrics. We also analyzed Google search volume around moving interest, and surveyed over 1,000 recent movers across the country.
Where Is Everyone Moving? A Quick Look at the Top 10 Cities
Whether you’re chasing better job opportunities, lower living costs, or just a change of scenery, these ten cities have quickly become the most sought-after destinations in the U.S. Based on recent moving trends and real data, here’s a quick snapshot of where people are headed—and why.
| Rank | City, ST | Population | Why It’s Trending |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Austin, TX | 974,000 | Booming tech industry & vibrant culture. |
| 2 | Raleigh | 470,000 | Affordable living & career growth. |
| 3 | Tampa | 400,000 | No income tax & coastal lifestyle. |
| 4 | Nashville | 715,000 | Growing job market. |
| 5 | Charlotte | 897,000 | Strong economy & family-friendly. |
| 6 | Phoenix | 1.6M | Lower cost of living & sunshine. |
| 7 | Denver | 711,000 | Outdoorsy lifestyle & tech growth. |
| 8 | Boise | 236,000 | Safe, clean, and nature-focused. |
| 9 | Orlando | 309,000 | Affordable & tourist-driven economy. |
| 10 | Greenville | 72,000 | Small city charm with fast growth. |
Cost of Living Breakdown: How the Cities Compare
Every dollar counts when choosing where to live. This section lets you explore how 10 of America’s most popular cities stack up across key cost-of-living factors—from housing and rent to income and commute times. Use the tabs to compare what matters most to you and see how far your money really goes.
In-Depth Look at the Top 10 Cities
From population growth to lifestyle scores, this breakdown dives into the data and local insights that explain why people are moving to these destinations. Whether you’re looking for booming job markets, great neighborhoods, or a better cost of living, explore what each city has to offer before making your next move.
#1. Austin, TX
- Population Growth Rate: +13.2%
- Top Industries: Tech, Startups, Education
- Median Rent: $1,850 / Median Home Price: $420K
- Lifestyle Score: 8.7/10
- Average Commute Time: 26 minutes
Austin has earned a reputation as the “Silicon Hills” thanks to its booming tech scene, with giants like Tesla and Oracle expanding here. But it’s not just about jobs—Austin’s vibrant music, arts, and outdoor scene offer a lifestyle that appeals to both young professionals and families.
The cost of living is still relatively manageable compared to California tech hubs, making it a high-value relocation spot. Strong schools, greenbelt trails, and a growing food culture seal the deal for many movers.
Popular Neighborhoods
- South Congress (SoCo): Artsy and walkable
- Mueller: Family-friendly, urban village
- East Austin: Trendy, cultural, diverse
- Round Rock: Suburban and great for schools
- Zilker: Near parks, ideal for outdoor lovers
Things to Consider
- Home prices have spiked rapidly
- Traffic congestion is a growing issue
Thinking about making Austin your next home? Whether you're drawn by its booming tech scene or just the unbeatable tacos and sunshine, there’s a lot to explore before making the leap.
#2. Raleigh, NC
- Population Growth Rate: +10.5%
- Top Industries: Research, Healthcare, Tech
- Median Rent: $1,650 / Median Home Price: $385K
- Lifestyle Score: 8.3/10
- Average Commute Time: 32 minutes
Raleigh, part of the Research Triangle, combines Southern charm with high-paying jobs and a strong education system. The cost of living is reasonable, and the city offers green spaces, safe neighborhoods, and proximity to both mountains and the beach.
It’s ideal for families, remote workers, and retirees seeking a slower pace without sacrificing access to innovation and opportunity.
Popular Neighborhoods
- North Hills: Upscale and modern
- Cameron Village: Walkable, urban vibe
- Cary: Great schools and quiet
- Morrisville: Diverse, growing fa
Things to Consider
- Hot summers
- Growing traffic with rapid development
Considering a move to Raleigh? With its strong job market and Southern charm, it’s no wonder more families and professionals are heading here for a fresh start.
#3. Tampa, FL
- Population Growth Rate: +9.8%
- Top Industries: Tourism, Finance, Healthcare
- Median Rent: $1,700 / Median Home Price: $370K
- Lifestyle Score: 8.5/10
- Average Commute Time: 34 minutes
Tampa offers warm weather year-round, no state income tax, and a growing job market. The city blends coastal living with urban development, giving newcomers the best of both worlds.
Tampa’s cost of living is lower than Miami, and families are drawn to good schools, water recreation, and an evolving downtown.
Popular Neighborhoods
- Hyde Park: Historic, walkable
- Seminole Heights: Artsy and affordable
- Westchase: Family-friendly suburb
- Downtown Tampa: For city lovers
Things to Consider
- Hot summers
- Growing traffic with rapid development
Dreaming of sunshine, palm trees, and no state income tax? Tampa offers coastal living with big-city energy—worth a closer look before you pack your bags.
Why These Cities?
In recent years, America has witnessed a historic reshuffling of where people choose to live. From bustling tech hubs to sun-soaked suburbs, millions have relocated in search of affordability, opportunity, and a better quality of life. But what exactly is fueling this migration—and why do cities like Austin, Raleigh, and Tampa keep topping the list?
Let’s explore the data and trends driving these moves.
What’s Driving the Migration Shift
The way people choose where to live has shifted dramatically in just a few years. From remote work flexibility to tax-friendly states, millions of Americans are rethinking their priorities—and relocating accordingly. Affordability, lifestyle, and weather now matter as much as career opportunities.
Post-2020 migration trends reveal a major reshuffling of U.S. cities.
The years following 2020 brought a dramatic shift in where people choose to live. With the rise of remote work and changing lifestyle priorities, millions left high-cost metro areas like New York City and San Francisco in favor of more affordable, sunnier, and tax-friendly destinations. This graph highlights the net migration trends across key U.S. cities from 2020 to 2024—showing where people are leaving and where they're going.
Remote Work Is Reshaping Where Americans Choose to Live
The rise of remote work has untethered millions from traditional office hubs, giving people the freedom to choose where they live based on lifestyle, cost of living, and climate—rather than proximity to a downtown headquarters. This shift is especially visible in cities like Austin, Raleigh, and Denver, where a high share of jobs can be done remotely. The chart below compares the percentage of remote-friendly jobs in several major U.S. metros, helping explain which cities are thriving in this new work-from-anywhere era.
Why More Americans Are Trading Metros for Affordability
The rising cost of living in coastal cities has pushed thousands to seek affordability without sacrificing lifestyle. From six-figure home prices to sky-high rents and state taxes, metros like San Francisco have become unattainable for many middle-class families. In contrast, cities like Austin and Tampa offer similar amenities—at a fraction of the cost and often with no income tax. This shift is a key reason behind today’s moving trends.
Live Where You Keep More of What You Earn
State income taxes can quietly drain thousands from your paycheck each year—especially for high earners and entrepreneurs. That’s why many remote workers are choosing to move to tax-friendly states like Texas, Florida, and Tennessee. These 0% income tax states offer significant annual savings—often between $5,000 and $20,000—just by changing your address. When income isn’t taxed, moving becomes a financial strategy, not just a lifestyle choice.
Why Millions Are Following the Sunshine
Weather is no longer just small talk—it’s a major life decision. For retirees, remote workers, and anyone tired of harsh winters, the Sunbelt is calling. Cities like Phoenix, Tampa, and Austin offer year-round warmth, milder winters, and a better outdoor lifestyle. With fewer days spent shoveling snow and more time outside, many part-time "snowbirds" are becoming full-time residents. The climate shift isn’t just seasonal—it’s permanent.
How We Gathered the Data
We’ve done the research so you don’t have to. This guide is based on real-world data collected from reputable sources to help you make smarter decisions when planning your move.
Why More Americans Are Trading Metros for Affordability
- Rent prices and home values are based on the latest Zillow and Redfin reports from the past 6–12 months.
- We used median values for a more accurate picture of the typical local market.
Job & Income Data
- Salary information was pulled from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Glassdoor.
- We focused on average full-time salaries across common professions.
Commute Times
- Data from the U.S. Census American Community Survey and INRIX traffic studies.
- Reflects average one-way commute duration in major metro areas.
State Taxes
- Tax policy and income tax rates sourced from state government portals and the Tax Foundation.
- Note: We only considered personal income tax, not sales or property tax.
Weather & Climate
- Climate stats like temperature and sunshine hours come from the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).
- Values shown reflect January and July monthly averages.
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