U-Haul recently released its annual U-Haul Growth Index1, compiled from more than 2.5 million one-way truck, trailer, and U-Box® portable moving container transactions that occur annually in the U.S. and Canada to show where people are moving.
For 2024, the Dallas area was the leading metro market2 in the United States for migration, while South Carolina attracted the most movers of all states3.
“We are seeing unprecedented growth in the Dallas metro area, both within the city and also suburbs like McKinney, Plano and Addison,” said Sean Fullerton, president of U-Haul Company of South Central Dallas. “The cost of living is also extremely reasonable throughout the whole metro. Job growth has led to wages and earnings going up, and tax breaks have led to a lot of people moving to the area.”
U-Haul’s Growth Index rankings are configured by each state, city, and metro area’s net gain (or loss) of customers utilizing one-way U-Haul equipment in 2024.
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U-Haul’s growth index listings feature many locations where Century Communities is ready to help you find your dream home.
What States Are People Moving to? U-Haul’s Top 9
1. South Carolina
South Carolina residents enjoy a diverse landscape, bordered on the west by the Appalachian Mountains and on the east by the Atlantic Ocean. With mild winters and hot summers, it’s great for outdoor activities year-round.
Combine the moderate climate with bustling job growth and a reasonable cost of living, and you can see why people are making South Carolina their new home.
If you are looking for the perfect landing spot in South Carolina, Myrtle Beach and Spartanburg made U-Haul’s list of top 25 growth cities in 2024.
2. Texas
Texas is well known for its thriving job market and lack of state income tax. The state boasts the eighth-largest economy in the world4, with numerous well-known companies calling it home.
There are also fantastic dining options (including world-famous barbeque), championship sports teams, exciting events, and a vibrant arts and cultural scene.
U-Haul’s list of top 10 high-growth metros includes three Texas locations–Dallas, Austin, and Houston–while College Station, TX makes the list of top 10 growth cities.
3. North Carolina
North Carolina offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture—and people are taking notice. From the stunning peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to the sandy shores of the Outer Banks, the state boasts diverse landscapes that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
Three of the state's metro areas—Charlotte, Raleigh, and Wilmington—made the cut on U-Haul’s list of top 25 growth metros
4. Florida
The peninsula state of Florida has long been a hub of entertainment, and relaxation, offering idyllic weather, sunny skies, iconic beaches, and stunning ocean views.
For entertainment, visitors flock from all over the world to visit coastal cities, the Kennedy Space Center, and renowned theme parks.
U-Haul’s list of growing cities and metros is packed with Florida locations, including Ocala–the list’s top growth city in 2024. Other popular destinations include the Palm Bay, Jacksonville, Sarasota, and Fort Myers metro areas.
5. Tennessee
Boasting world-class cities like Nashville, people are moving to Tennessee for its thriving economy, deep history in music, varied cuisine, and abundant economic, educational, and cultural opportunities.
Known as the birthplace of country music, Tennessee offers an array of rich entertainment options, including live music at honky-tonks, Dollywood, Graceland, the Grand Ole Opry, and much more.
6. Arizona
Arizona continues to be a growth magnet for its thriving economy, warm winters, amazing sunsets, and breathtaking landscapes—from snowy mountain ranges to cactus-dotted deserts.
The Phoenix metro area and Kingman were U-Haul’s 2024 top destinations for those making a move to the Grand Canyon State.
7. Washington
Thriving economy? Check. Pacific coastline? Check. Snow-capped mountains? Check again.
For outdoor lovers, Washington is an endless playground of possibilities—from exploring the Puget Sound to hiking Mount Rainier National Park.
According to U-Haul, many people are finding their new home near Tacoma—part of the greater Seattle Metro area.
8. Indiana
With a unique blend of Midwestern charm and urban vitality, it’s no surprise to find Indiana at #8 on U-Haul’s 2024 growth states.
Rich cultural heritage, thriving manufacturing and technology sectors, and a low cost of living come together to make the Hoosier State a magnet for a diverse mix of new residents.
While Indianapolis is a well-known draw, don’t sleep on the growing northwest region, as well as the Indiana side of the Louisville metro to the south.
9. Utah
From abundant natural beauty to a flourishing tech scene, Utah is a convergence of outdoor recreation and urban innovation, particularly in dynamic hubs like Salt Lake City.
For those in search of economic opportunity and outdoor adventure—not to mention a friendly community—Utah makes for an easy shoo-in on U-Haul's list of top growth states.
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