Americans On the Move
Are you thinking of moving to another city or state? If so, you’re not alone. The coronavirus pandemic has caused a lot of people to consider living somewhere else. Some people have experienced a job loss or wage reduction, necessitating a move. Others are seeking a safer, less-crowded, more picturesque place to call home. And speaking of home, the pandemic has also significantly increased the number of employees working from home. So those who no longer need to live near their place of employment are embracing the fact that they can live anywhere their hearts desire, and many are seeking greener pastures.
A new Redfin report reveals that almost a third (29 percent) of Redfin.com users planned on moving to a smaller metro area in the third quarter of 2020. Where are all of these people moving to—and where are they coming from? Keep reading to find out.
Santa Barbara, California
The coastal city of Santa Barbara is the most popular destination for Redfin.com users, with a net inflow increase of a whopping 124 percent throughout the last year. It’s not cheap to live in Santa Barbara, which has a median home price of $855,000, however, its beaches are unbeatable. The most common city of origin of people moving here is Los Angeles, and they could be making the 90 mile trek northwest for more space and to work from home in the city that has been called “The American Riviera.”
Louisville, Kentucky
Experiencing a net inflow increase of 113 percent, Louisville is the second-trendiest destination for movers this year. New York is the most popular city of origin, perhaps because the Big Apple is taking too much of a bite out of their pockets. Louisville, known as a major college sports town, offers not just a lower cost of living with median home prices of $229,000, but also a huge dose of southern charm and mild winters.
Buffalo, New York
As the second-largest city in the state of New York, Buffalo is getting even larger, with a 107 percent net inflow increase. The highest percentage of people moving to Buffalo are coming from New York City, perhaps lured by the $190,000 median home price, the opportunity to stay in the state, and the redevelopment of several historic neighborhoods. The city is also home to an NFL team, the Buffalo Bills.
Related: 18 Hidden Costs of Moving
Burlington, Vermont
Burlington holds the unique title of the most populous city in Vermont—although the U.S. Census Bureau estimates its population to be about 43,000. The city has experienced a 103 percent net inflow increase, and Boston seems to be the most popular city sending residents here. Burlington’s median home price is $330,000, and its distinction of being the first city in the U.S. to obtain 100 percent of its electricity from renewable sources also makes it a popular choice for those concerned about climate change and a sustainable future.
El Paso, Texas
El Paso is the second-largest city in the Southwest and the sixth-largest city in Texas. Big-city amenities combined with an eye-catching median home price of $183,000 makes it a popular choice for people exiting more dense locales. That explains the 101 percent net inflow increase in residents. Los Angeles is a particularly popular source of new residents in El Paso.
Related: 12 Things I Wish I Had Known Before Moving to a Small Town
Little Rock, Arkansas
The largest city in Arkansas, Little Rock has experienced an 82 percent net inflow increase in residents, and Los Angeles is the most popular source for new people moving to the city. For those who want to soak up the sun and avoid cold weather, while also experiencing a reasonable cost of living, Little Rock’s $181,000 median home price is quite tempting.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa is the second-largest city in Oklahoma, and it appeals to out-of-towners for a variety of reasons. It’s been ranked one of the most walkable cities, and one of the most livable large cities, which accounts for the 80 percent net inflow increase in residents. Los Angeles is one of the most popular sources of people moving to Tulsa, perhaps as a result of the $210,000 average home price, which is considerably less than what people pay for a home in Los Angeles.
Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville is the sixth-largest city in South Carolina, and it has experienced a 79 percent net inflow increase in residents. New York City is the most popular source of new residents here, and it’s easy to see why. Greenville has a median home price of $236,000 and typically has short, mild winters. Another advantage is that the city is halfway between Atlanta and Charlotte, making it ideal for people who want to visit—but not live in—big cities.
Related: 8 of the Smartest Ways to Save Money When You Move
Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee (behind Nashville and Memphis), and has an eclectic music scene with something to appeal to every music lover. The city’s 75 percent net inflow increase can be attributed to not just music, but also robust outdoor areas and waterfront communities. Chicago is the most popular source of new residents in Knoxville, and they undoubtedly find the $246,000 median home price irresistible.
Syracuse, New York
The fifth most populous city in New York, Syracuse is a popular destination—especially for those who don’t want to leave the state. This could explain why residents of New York City represent a large chunk of the 74 percent net inflow increase. Also, Syracuse has median home prices of $169,000, representing a more livable experience, and for sports lovers, the Syracuse University basketball team has won several national titles.
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