A recent report by Retirement Living, analyzing U.S. Census Bureau and American Community Survey data, shows that North Carolina and South Carolina rank among the most popular states for people relocating in 2025. North Carolina ranks third, and South Carolina ranks fifth, with net gains of nearly 59,000 and 55,000 residents, respectively.
Population growth in these states reflects migration patterns from across the United States. Several factors influence relocation trends, including cost of living, housing costs, property taxes, and career opportunities. Understanding these migration trends provides insight into why the Carolinas are becoming increasingly attractive to residents of all generations.
Migration Trends by Generation
The report categorizes moves by generational cohorts, highlighting distinct preferences for each age group. Data also includes insights from U-Haul International and migration maps showing inbound and outbound moves.
Silent Generation (1928–1945)
The Silent Generation moves the least, but older adults still show preference for Southern states. Florida, Texas, Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina are top destinations. Factors influencing this generation include milder weather, coastal charm, and communities supportive of living closer to loved ones.
Baby Boomers (1946–1964)
Baby Boomers are relocating at higher rates. North Carolina and South Carolina remain top five choices, alongside Florida, Arizona, and Nevada. Moves often involve inbound migration for retirement-friendly areas or downsizing homes in metropolitan areas. Key considerations include cost of living, tax rates, and access to healthcare.
Generation X (1965–1980)
Generation X increasingly chooses Southern states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Texas, and Nevada. Moves focus on a balance of career opportunities, suburban living, and proximity to family. Urban or regional center/suburban counties attract those seeking access to work hubs and schools, while rural counties offer space and natural beauty.
Millennials (1981–1996)
Millennials are highly mobile, prioritizing cities with thriving tech hubs, cultural amenities, and affordable housing. While states like Texas, Washington, Georgia, Nevada, and Maryland lead, North and South Carolina remain popular due to lower housing costs, reasonable mortgage rates, and a mix of urban and suburban lifestyle options.
Generation Z (1997–2012)
Gen Z is driving population growth in the Carolinas, with North Carolina gaining 62,000 residents and South Carolina gaining 45,000. They value affordability, employment opportunities, and vibrant communities. Myrtle Beach in South Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountains region in North Carolina are notable destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking Southern hospitality.
Key Factors Behind Carolina Migration
Several elements explain why North and South Carolina consistently appear on lists of most moved-to states:
1. Affordable Cost of Living
Lower cost of living, housing costs, and property taxes make relocation more feasible. Residents benefit from a balance of quality housing and economic sustainability. Net gain in these states reflects the appeal of affordable living compared to Northern and Western states.
2. Metropolitan Areas and Rural Options
Both states offer a blend of metropolitan areas and rural counties. Cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, Charleston, and Columbia provide access to jobs, education, and cultural amenities. Meanwhile, smaller towns and rural counties offer scenic landscapes, coastal charm, and quieter lifestyles.
3. Job Market and Career Opportunities
The Carolinas’ job market supports growth across sectors like technology, healthcare, education, and finance. Career opportunities in these industries attract working professionals and out-of-state movers. Emerging remote work ecosystems and hybrid work models also make relocation easier for professionals seeking flexibility.
4. Cultural and Recreational Amenities
From museums and theaters to beaches and mountain trails, both states provide lifestyle appeal for all generations. Regions like Myrtle Beach and the Great Smoky Mountains draw outdoor enthusiasts and tourists, contributing to inbound moves and growing net move-ins.
5. Southern Hospitality and Lifestyle
Southern hospitality, milder weather, and proximity to family and friends make the Carolinas inviting. Communities focus on safety, local engagement, and quality of life, which appeals to Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Gen Z alike.
Migration Data Insights
Net migration estimates, outbound moves, and inbound migration patterns show a clear trend toward Southern states. Data from U-Haul International, U-Haul Rental Locations, North American Van Lines, and moving cost calculators support the growing movement to the Carolinas.
- North Carolina: Third-highest gain nationally, strong growth in Gen Z, Millennials, and Baby Boomers.
- South Carolina: Fifth-highest gain, with high appeal for retirees, Gen Z, and those seeking coastal living.
- Popular cities: Charlotte, Raleigh, Columbia, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach.
- Factors considered: tax rates, median home prices, mortgage rates, self storage, and relocation cost estimates.
Migration Maps and Analysis
Migration maps indicate that nearly every age group shows higher inbound migration to Southern states. Analysis of American Community Survey and US Census Bureau data confirms that economic opportunity, lifestyle quality, and affordability drive relocation.
- Outbound moves from Northern states and high-cost urban centers highlight the appeal of Southern regions.
- Regions with emerging tech hubs and strong healthcare systems attract young professionals.
- Coastal and mountain regions attract retirees and outdoor enthusiasts.
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