Top Cities People Are Moving to in 2025

Here are the top cities people are moving to in 2025 from Coastal Moving Services Data. Relocating to a new city is a life-changing decision, often influenced by affordability, job opportunities, quality of life, and access to amenities. In 2025, migration trends highlight a shift toward smaller, more cost-effective cities, particularly in the Southeast and Sun Belt, as people seek balance and value.

At Coastal Moving Services, we’ve compiled insights from authoritative sources like the U.S. Census Bureau, Zillow, and industry analyses to identify the top cities attracting movers this year.

This guide will help you understand why these destinations are popular and how to plan long distance moving, whether you’re a professional, family, or retiree.

Myrtle Beach, SC/Wilmington, NC: Coastal Charm and Affordability

The Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Wilmington, North Carolina, metro area tops the list of move-in destinations for the third consecutive year, according to the 2025 Moving Trends Report. This coastal region combines affordability with a vacation-like lifestyle, drawing retirees, families, and young professionals. The median home price here is around $349,395, significantly lower than the national average of $412,300, per Zillow’s 2025 data.

With a cost of living about 8% below the national average, this area offers financial relief compared to megacities like Los Angeles or New York.

The region’s appeal lies in its beaches, golf courses, and vibrant cultural scenes, including Wilmington’s historic riverfront and Myrtle Beach’s boardwalk. Job opportunities in tourism, healthcare, and education are growing, with major employers like the Medical University of South Carolina. However, hurricane risks are a consideration, so check FEMA’s flood maps at fema.gov before buying property. For movers, the area’s accessibility via I-95 makes relocation straightforward, with full-service moving costs for a one-bedroom home averaging $2,000–$3,500.

Wilmington, NC: Coastal Living with Economic Appeal

Wilmington, North Carolina, is a standout destination for movers seeking a blend of coastal charm and affordability. The city’s median home price is approximately $375,000, well below the national median of $412,300, according to Zillow’s 2025 data. With a cost of living about 7% below the national average, per Salary.com, Wilmington attracts retirees, young professionals, and families. Its economy thrives on tourism, education, and healthcare, with employers like New Hanover Regional Medical Center driving job growth. The unemployment rate is 4.2%, slightly below the national average of 4.3%, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Wilmington’s historic riverfront, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to beaches like Wrightsville make it a lifestyle draw. However, its coastal location means hurricane risks, so review FEMA’s flood maps at fema.gov before settling. Moving costs for a one-bedroom home from a city like New York (550 miles) range from $1,500 for a DIY truck rental to $4,000 for full-service movers. W

Raleigh, NC: Tech and Education Hub

Raleigh, part of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, is gaining traction for its robust economy and high quality of life. The median home price is $437,000, and one-bedroom rents average $1,200, per Zillow, offering affordability compared to coastal metros. The city’s job market, driven by tech giants like IBM and research institutions like North Carolina State University, boasts an unemployment rate of 4.1%, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Raleigh’s diverse economy also includes healthcare and finance, making it ideal for professionals.

With parks like Umstead State Park, a vibrant downtown, and a mild climate (average highs of 71°F), Raleigh appeals to families and young adults. Its schools rank among the state’s best, per U.S. News & World Report. Moving from Chicago (800 miles) costs $1,800–$5,000, depending on whether you opt for a moving container or full-service movers.

Dallas-Fort Worth, TX: Economic Opportunity and Urban Energy

Dallas-Fort Worth is a magnet for movers due to its no state income tax and dynamic economy. The median home price is $429,097, with one-bedroom rents around $1,350, per Zillow. The metro area’s unemployment rate is 4.0%, supported by industries like finance, tech, and logistics, with major employers like American Airlines, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median household income is $89,502, above the national average of $81,060, per the U.S. Census Bureau.

The region’s cultural offerings, including the Dallas Museum of Art and Fort Worth’s Stockyards, complement its mild winters (average lows of 37°F). However, traffic congestion is a drawback, ranking 15th worst in the U.S., per INRIX. Moving from Los Angeles (1,450 miles) costs $2,500 – $7,000, depending on services like packing or vehicle transport.

You can call us at +1-334-659-1878 for a free quote for your Dallas-Fort Worth moving fees.

Greenville, SC: Affordable Southern Gem

Greenville, South Carolina, is a rising star for its low cost of living and small-city charm. The median home price is $350,000, and the cost of living is 10% below the national average, per Salary.com. The unemployment rate is 4.2%, driven by manufacturing and tech, with companies like Michelin and BMW as key employers, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Greenville’s walkable downtown, featuring Falls Park on the Reedy, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains attract outdoor lovers. Its mild climate (average highs of 70°F) adds to its appeal. Moving from Atlanta (145 miles) costs $800-$3,000, with options like moving containers offering flexibility.

If you are looking for a mover for Greenville South Carolina, you can call us for a free quote +1-334-659-1878

Knoxville, TN: Nature and Community

Knoxville, Tennessee, draws movers with its affordability and Appalachian backdrop. The median home price is $370,000, and one-bedroom rents average $1,100, per Zillow. The cost of living is 12% below the national average, and the unemployment rate is 4.0%, supported by healthcare, education, and tourism, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The University of Tennessee is a major employer.

Knoxville’s Market Square, outdoor recreation near the Great Smoky Mountains, and mild winters (average lows of 30°F) appeal to diverse groups. Its population of 190,000 offers a tight-knit community feel. Moving from Chicago (550 miles) costs $1,500–$4,500, depending on the moving method.

Planning Your Move: Practical Steps

Relocating to these top cities involves strategic planning. Long-distance moves average 1,300 miles, with costs for a one-bedroom home ranging from $800 for a DIY truck rental to $5,000 for full-service movers, per moveadvisor.com. Verify mover credentials through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration at fmcsa.dot.gov. Choose insurance options like Full Value Protection for high-value items, and file a USPS change of address at usps.com at least a week prior.

Coastal Moving Services offers tailored solutions for your relocation, call us at +1-334-659-1878 for a free quote.

Why are these Top Cities People Are Moving To? Migration Drivers in 2025

Migration patterns in 2025, per the U.S. Census Bureau, show a preference for smaller cities in the Southeast and Sun Belt, driven by affordability and lifestyle. North Carolina and Tennessee are prominent, with lower median home prices ($331,800 and $319,300, respectively) compared to the national average, per Zillow.

High-cost states like California, with median mortgage payments near $5,500/month, are seeing outflows, per California’s Legislative Analyst’s Office. Remote work continues to enable moves to less expensive regions, though urban hubs like Dallas are regaining traction as office returns grow.

For a smooth move to these top cities, contact Coastal Moving Services at +1-334-659-1878.