Where Are People Moving to in 2023

Nearly one-third of Americans say they’re thinking about moving in 2023.

Some members of this group know precisely where they want to go, but others are a bit unsure. They might know they want to leave their current location because of rising housing costs or a lack of job opportunities, but they don’t know where they want to go next.

If you fall in the latter category, learning the latest moving trends can help you make the right decision for yourself in your family.

Where are people moving to in 2023? Find out below!

What You’ll Learn in this article

• One-third of Americans are considering moving in 2023 due to rising housing costs or a lack of job opportunities.

• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Lakeland, Sarasota, Fort Myers, Port St. Lucie, Ocala, and Daytona Beach in Florida; Austin, Texas; and Boise, Idaho are among the top U.S. cities experiencing significant population growth and are considered desirable destinations to move to.

• Vienna, Austria; Sydney, Australia; Vancouver and Toronto, Canada; and Barcelona, Spain are among the top international destinations to consider moving to.

• Factors such as affordability, access to outdoor activities, cultural opportunities, healthcare, and weather are some of the reasons why these cities are becoming popular choices for relocation.

Top 10 Destinations in the US

Based on the latest U.S. Census data, the cities listed below have experienced the most significant growth (and are primed to continue growing in the coming years):

1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is currently at the top of the list of fastest-growing metro areas in the United States. 

This small city has experienced population growth of over 17 percent in the last five years and offers a median sold home price of $269,000 (far below the country’s average of $428,700). 

2. Lakeland, Florida 

The entire state of Florida has experienced significant growth in the last few years, with many people relocating there during the pandemic to enjoy warmer weather, a lower cost of living, and more access to affordable housing.

Lakeland ranks at the top of the list of all the fast-growing Florida cities. It’s grown by nearly 13 percent and has a median sold home price of $307,000.

3. Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota is another rapidly growing Florida city worth considering. This city has experienced a little over 12 percent growth in the last five years and currently has a median sold home price of $535,000.

Sarasota is not as affordable as some other cities on this list, but living so close to Florida’s beautiful beaches might be worth the extra money.

4. Fort Myers, Florida

The fourth most popular destination is Fort Myers, Florida.

This city has experienced 11.32 percent population growth, and the median sold home price is $415,000. It’s also considered one of the safest places to live in the United States!

5. Boise, Idaho

If you’d rather move to the western United States, consider relocating to Boise, Idaho.

Its impressive mountain views and myriad outdoor activity options make it an excellent destination for adventurous folks who don’t mind cold, snowy winters.

Boise has grown by almost 11 percent and has a median sold home price of $458,615. 

6. Ocala, Florida

The sixth spot on the list of fastest-growing U.S. cities goes to Ocala, Florida, which has grown by 10.64 percent.

This centrally located city provides easy access to lakes, forests, and other outdoor activities. It’s also much more affordable than other Florida destinations, with a median sold home price of $265,000.

7. Port St. Lucie, Florida

Port St. Lucie, Florida, sits in the heart of the state’s Treasure Coast and is less than an hour from Palm Beach. 

Port St. Lucie has experienced a population growth of 10.34 percent in the last five years and is quickly becoming a popular urban area. The median sold home price is $379,958.  

8. Daytona Beach, Florida

Daytona Beach, Florida, is located on the state’s Atlantic coast and is home to the famous Daytona 500 NASCAR Race.

Despite its fame, Daytona Beach is quite affordable, with a median sold home price of just $262,875. With prices like that, it’s no wonder the city has grown by over 10 percent. 

9. Naples, Florida

Naples is the last Florida city on the list. That doesn’t make it any less inviting of a place to live, though.

Naples’ population has grown by a little over nine percent, and its home prices have increased even more. The current median sold home price in Naples is $740,000, making it the priciest city on this list.

If you value safety and easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, it’s a great choice.

10. Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas, is the tenth fastest-growing city in the U.S.

Austin has seen a population growth of nearly 8.5 percent and has a median sold home price of $535,000. It’s an excellent option for those interested in a city with plenty of indoor and outdoor activity options (as well as some of the country’s lowest property taxes and no state income tax).

Top 5 International Destinations

Want to branch out and see what the rest of the world has to offer? Consider these top five international moving destinations:

1. Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria, is known for its incredible architecture, pleasant temperatures, and various cultural opportunities. Condé Nast Traveler also scored the city 99.1 out of 100 on its list of the best places to live.

2. Sydney, Australia

If you want to experience life down under, head to Sydney, Australia. You’ll have easy access to the beach, various cultural experiences (including the Sydney Opera House), and accessible healthcare!  

3. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Vancouver, British Columbia, is an excellent location to consider if you want to experience milder weather, beautiful outdoor scenery, and easier access to the United States.  

4. Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto, Ontario, is another Canadian city to consider. It’s a highly diverse city that welcomes people from all over the world and provides easy access to various activities and experiences. 

5. Tokyo, Japan

If you don’t mind living in a heavily populated city, consider relocating to Tokyo, Japan. With a population of 37 million, it’s a good choice for those who don’t mind large crowds. 

5 Moving Trends to Watch in 2023

Maybe you’re on the fence about moving and considering your options. Even in that situation, it’s still important to pay attention to the latest moving trends so you’re aware of factors that might affect your move.

Here are five important trends to watch this year:

Remote Workers Are Relocating

During the pandemic, more people started working remotely than ever. When they began working from home, they realized they didn’t have to live in a big city if they didn’t want to. As a result, many decided to relocate to places with better real estate options, more affordability, etc. 

Most People Don’t Want to Move Very Far

For some adventurous folks, long-distance moving is the way to go. However, 61 percent of Americans moved less than 20 miles from their previous location last year.

Many People Are Moving for a Better Quality of Life

When asked why they were moving, 24 percent of respondents said they were looking for a better quality of life. If that’s your reason for moving, you’re not alone. 

Renting Is Common

If you’re not ready to buy a house, that’s okay. Seventy-nine percent of Americans say now isn’t a good time. When you relocate, consider renting until the real estate market settles.

People Want Help from Professional Movers

Over a quarter (28 percent) of people who moved in the last year wish they had hired professional movers. If you decide to move this year, spring for professionals for a stress-free experience.

Choose Your 2023 Moving Destination Today

After reading this guide, you can confidently answer the question, “Where are people moving to in 2023.” You likely also have a better idea of where you’d like to relocate based on factors like the job market, affordability, and access to attractions like beaches or mountains.

Keep this information in mind to make an informed choice and reduce your chances of experiencing post-move regrets.