BY : Ujala Umair,
According to research, Americans have been moving out of state more frequently lately, despite the fact that it can be expensive and difficult. Additionally, one area has been drawing more new inhabitants than any other. According to a recent research from moveBuddha, the trend of Americans moving to the Sun Belt states was seen in January U.S. Census statistics.
The relocation tech business examined transfer trends using confidential data gathered between 2020 and October 1, 2025. Using the company’s moving cost calculator, moveBuddha computed the prices using an in-to-out ratio equation based on the number of inquiries to move in divided by the number of queries to move out. According to the report, the South is home to four of the top ten states where individuals want to relocate.
U.S. Census Bureau
According to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Americans are migrating to a number of largely Western states. According to the data, which was made public on Tuesday, 7.4 million Americans who were at least one year old relocated between states in 2019. In comparison to 2018, about 200,000 fewer persons relocated to neighboring states in 2019. Six of the ten states with the greatest percentages of citizens who had lived in another state the year before were in the Western region of the United States.
Florida
Florida, which had topped the nation in net migration annually since 2014, was overtaken by Texas. However, with a net gain of 136,750 residents—just 800 fewer than Texas—Florida remained a close second.
New York
With over 72,000 newcomers from New York, it also had the greatest number.
South Carolina, New Jersey
In the South, North Carolina had the third-highest net migration in 2023 with 110,833, followed by South Carolina, its neighbor, with 72,404. Georgia, with a net gain of 61,980 individuals, completed the top five.
Some states must lose some citizens while others gain new ones. In 2023, California lost around 259,000 residents, followed by New York (186,533), Illinois (89,936), and New Jersey (66,994).
North Dakota: 1.06%
Remote areas and harsh winters are perhaps the reasons why respondents weren’t very fond of this place. Many Americans are looking for warmer climes, greater career opportunities, and more entertainment options, even though North Dakota offers low unemployment, reasonably priced housing, and breathtaking open spaces. Some people are drawn to its robust economy and close-knit towns, but overall, it lacks the widespread attractiveness of states with higher rankings.
Mississippi: 1.20%
Mississippi is a musical state full of vitality and spirit. However, this does not automatically mean that many people want to relocate there. Down there, poverty is a serious problem. That does, however, result in lower real estate costs.
Oklahoma: 1.80%
The Sooner State has good employment prospects, particularly in the energy and aerospace industries, and a rather inexpensive cost of living. Many people are drawn to Oklahoma by its welcoming communities and expansive areas, yet catastrophic tornadoes and poor public transportation might cause people to go off course.
Rhode Island: 2.25%
Despite its tiny size, Rhode Island has a lot to offer, including stunning views of the shore, delicious seafood, and a wealth of historical information. Its proximity to major cities like Boston and New York, as well as its close-knit communities, are important advantages. However, out-of-towners may feel a little claustrophobic and concerned about their diminishing bank account due to the high cost of living and restricted space.
Minnesota: 2.89%
“Are you fond of the cold?” That is the only question on the application for relocation to Minnesota.
Louisiana: 3%
The deep south, particularly Louisiana, which has a strong French influence, is highly alluring. Mangroves, humid weather, jugs of iced tea, and Creole cuisine may all be fantasies for anyone from outside the state who is enticed to relocate there. All of it is present, but there is also poverty, a high crime rate, and dubious infrastructure that could collapse in the event of a natural disaster.
3.28% in New Mexico
New Mexico has a really distinct and special vibe. Its climate, landscape, food, or architecture may appeal to people who are tired of their home state and are searching for a new place to call home. However, public schools there receive inadequate funding. Additionally, access to healthcare may be restricted in rural areas.
Hawaii: 15.43%
Hawaii is a dream come true for people who want to live on an island. It is a very desirable area to relocate to because of its stunning beaches, year-round sunshine, and distinctive culture. However, many people cannot afford it due to the high cost of living, small employment market, and remote location.
Washington: 8.07%
Washington is a desirable place to relocate because of the Pacific Northwest’s stunning scenery and dynamic culture. Its robust employment economy is also beneficial. However, other people are deterred by Seattle’s high housing costs, apparently never-ending driving rain, and congested everyday traffic.
The US states that Americans would most like to relocate to are rated
According to a recent survey, 35% of Americans plan to relocate in 2025. Even so, only 8–9% are anticipated to carry out their objectives. Of those who are considering moving, 25% want to leave their native state, and 4% are considering moving abroad. A noteworthy 87% of respondents stated that affordable housing and reduced living expenses were important factors in their choice. MoveBuddha, a US relocation company, polled 1,250 people to find out which states they would most like to relocate to. We asked respondents which state they would like to call home. Up to three states could be selected by them. This is the whole ranking, beginning with the least preferred.
FAQs
Q1: Which American state is the greatest place to live?
The “best” state in the United States to live in depends on personal preferences; some may value affordability or employment prospects, while others may favor warmer temperatures. However, according to a 2024 US News and World Report list, Utah, New Hampshire, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Idaho are the top five states.
Q2: Which US state is the happiest?
For the second consecutive year, Hawaii is the happiest state in the union. Hawaii had an overall score of 65.50, placing it at the top of WalletHub’s ranking. It was placed 13th for community and environment, 16th for work environment, and third for emotional and physical well-being.
Q3: What city are most Americans moving to?
U.S. Cities Attracting the Most New Residents
New York City: 702,000+ newcomers (143,000 from out of state)
Los Angeles: 371,000.
Houston: 356,000.
Q4: How can one relocate to America?
It is feasible to relocate to the United States without a job, but you must fulfill certain requirements and have enough money for your stay. However, the simplest method of obtaining a US residency visa is through employer sponsorship.
Q5: Today, where do the majority of Americans reside?
Eighty percent of Americans reside in cities, according to the Census Bureau. The remaining 20% reside in rural areas. Suburban places don’t have their own category. Mor