Where Americans are moving - and will it continue?

Over the past few years, the story has become clear:

People are leaving expensive states. And moving to places that offer more for their money.

Not slightly more. Significantly more.

The map below illustrates which states gained the most and which states lost the most in terms of population size in 2025…

What the Map Is Telling Us

The biggest losses?

• California
• New York
• Illinois
• New Jersey

The biggest gains?

• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Idaho

This isn’t random. It’s a pattern.

And it’s accelerating.

Why People Are Leaving

It usually comes down to a few key things:

1. Cost of Living

Housing costs have stretched too far. Taxes add another layer.

At some point, people run the numbers… And decide to move.

2. Remote Work Changed Everything

You don’t have to live near the office anymore.

So people ask:

“Why am I paying this much to live here?”

And they leave.

3. Quality of Life

More space. Less traffic. Better pace.

That matters more now than it did five years ago.

4. Taxes

Lower-tax states keep gaining ground.

It’s not the only factor. But it consistently shows up.

Why People Are Moving To These States

The winners all share a few traits:

• More affordable housing
• Job growth
• Business-friendly environments
• Lifestyle appeal

It’s not just cheaper.

It’s a better overall fit for how people want to live today.

Will This Trend Continue?

Short answer:

Yes… but with some nuance.

The Case for “Yes”

The core drivers aren’t going away.

• Remote work remains elevated vs. pre-2020
• Housing affordability is still a major issue
• Lifestyle has become a primary decision driver

The South continues to dominate migration trends. States like Tennessee, Texas, and the Carolinas are still leading.

But It’s Not Unlimited

Some of the fastest-growing markets are becoming more expensive.

As that happens:

Growth slows. Buyers become more selective.

We’re already starting to see that in certain markets.

What This Means Going Forward

This trend isn’t ending.

It’s evolving.

Expect:

• More balanced migration patterns
• Growth shifting to “next-tier” cities
• Smarter, more selective buyers

Tennessee: Why It Keeps Winning

Tennessee continues to be one of the biggest beneficiaries.

And it’s not hard to see why.

No state income tax.

Strong inbound migration of major companies.

Relative affordability. Especially compared to where people are coming from.

Quality of life.

• Space
• Strong communities
• Access to Nashville
• Highly regarded school systems (especially Williamson County)

Central location. Easy access across the country.

The Bottom Line

This isn’t a short-term shift.

It’s a structural reset in how people choose where to live.

And Tennessee sits right in the middle of it.