2024 has been the year of travel for some people. But for others, it’s become the year of moving.
In 2023, more than 25 million people in the United States relocated between cities, states, and even out of the country. And 2024 could see similar numbers.
But where are people moving to? According to a recent study by MoveBuddha, a few places top the list.
MoveBuddha is a platform that helps people find moving services and resources around the moving process. The company’s recent study ranked the top cities in each state that movers desire to relocate to.
The survey took into account the local job market and available opportunities, cost of living, and overall quality of life for residents. Some cities, like Decatur, Ga., landed on the list due to its small-city vibe and lower population while others like Chattanooga, Tenn., found a place on the list because of its status as a cultural center with lots to do.
Here are the top cities on the list:
1.The Villages, Florida
People are moving to The Villages, Fla., for a variety of reasons. Move Buddha noted that the area is experiencing a “silver tsunami,” an influx of older people to the area.
One of the main attractions is the active lifestyle that the community offers residents. With several golf courses, tennis courts, and fitness centers, people have many opportunities to stay active and socialize with others.
Additionally, The Villages has a sense of community and social engagement is appealing to many retirees and older adults looking to stay active and make new friends in their later years. The study also noted that many residents drive golf carts as their main mode of transportation.
2. Asheville, North Carolina
Movers are interested in Asheville, N.C. because of its stunning natural beauty and proximity to major cities like Charlotte and it’s location in the Blue Ridge mountains.
The city is also known for its outdoor recreational opportunities like nearby hiking, exploring landmarks like the Biltmore Estate, and more. It’s also home to the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic highway that winds through the mountains and offers picturesque views of the landscape.
Asheville has several parks and waterfalls nearby and is attractive to the outdoorsy types.
It’s also attractive for its eclectic local arts and culture scene. It’s home to several art galleries and has a relatively laid-back atmosphere that’s conducive to a slower-paced lifestyle.
3. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, S.C. is already a popular destination for travelers, but it’s becoming attractive for people looking to relocate.
Compared to most popular coastal cities, Myrtle Beach has a relatively affordable cost of living and offers lots to do and see. The beach city has several miles of shoreline, nightclubs, and restaurants for people to visit.
The area offers a wide range of attractions, too, like ziplining, boating, and more that residents can take advantage of.
4. Billings, Montana
Another place that ranked high on the list was Billings, Mont. because of its cost of living. Lower than many cities, Billings is affordable and free from the hustle and bustle that can come with major cities.
Places like the Yellowstone Art Museum, national monuments, state parks, and more are attractions in the city that attract visitors and residents alike.
The relaxed downtown area is full of shopping, breweries, and restaurants. There’s also the option to drive through Beartooth Highway, a nearby road known for its views of the local landscape.
The Others
Other high-ranking cities on the list include:
| RANK | CITY, STATE |
| 1 | The Villages, Florida |
| 2 | Asheville, North Carolina |
| 3 | Myrtle Beach, South Carolina |
| 4 | Billings, Montana |
| 5 | Decatur, Georgia |
| 6 | Chattanooga, Tennessee |
| 7 | Conroe, Texas |
| 8 | Cheyenne, Wyoming |
| 9 | Burlington, Vermont |
| 10 | Boulder, Colorado |
| 11 | Eugene, Oregon |
| 12 | Little Rock, Arkansas |
| 13 | Henderson, Nevada |
| 14 | Boise, Idaho |
| 15 | Olympia, Washington |
| 16 | Anchorage, Alaska |
| 17 | Charlottesville, Virginia |
| 18 | Des Moines, Iowa |
| 19 | Wilmington, Delaware |
| 20 | Honolulu, Hawaii |
| 21 | Overland Park, Kansas |
| 22 | Sioux Falls, South Dakota |
| 23 | Hartford, Connecticut |
| 24 | Grand Rapids, Michigan |
| 25 | Portland, Maine |