Oregon Leads US Migration Trends with 65% Inbound Moves, New Report Reveals
Heritage Foundation chief economist EJ Antoni breaks down October and November jobs reports, highlighting job losses among government bureaucrats and foreign-born workers on ‘The Bottom Line.’
Economic headwinds, particularly in the job market, have driven a “fundamental shift in American migration patterns,” according to United Van Lines’ 49th Annual National Movers Study.
The study, published last week, indicates a continued trend of population movement from the colder North and Midwest regions to the warmer South and West. This shift reflects changing priorities among Americans as they seek better living conditions and job opportunities.
Oregon emerged as the most popular destination this year, boasting the highest percentage of inbound migration at 65%. This influx is largely attributed to job-seeking migrants, with approximately 36% relocating for opportunities in the growing tech and healthcare sectors. The Eugene-Springfield metro area, in particular, saw the most inbound moves, with Springfield offering a lower cost of living compared to other Oregon metros, while still being conveniently located near Eugene and Portland.
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According to the report, migration patterns are primarily driven by the desire to be closer to family, followed closely by job market considerations. Realtor.com senior economist Joel Berner noted that affordability is a significant factor attracting movers to states like Oregon and South Carolina, where housing costs are relatively low and job opportunities are plentiful.
Migration patterns are primarily driven by the desire to be closer to family, followed by the job market, according to the report. (Ty Wright/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Berner pointed out that the half-ring of top inbound states surrounding California illustrates this trend, as California itself remains a leading outbound state. Movers are increasingly targeting states like Oregon and South Carolina, where they can find affordable living costs alongside ample job opportunities.
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While Oregon is known for its high-paying tech jobs, South Carolina has emerged as a significant player in the manufacturing sector, attracting residents seeking diverse employment options.
Oregon is home to many high-paying tech jobs. (Marli Miller/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
In contrast, New Jersey has seen the highest outflow of residents for the eighth consecutive year, with 62% of moves tied to the state being outbound. However, about 21% of inbound moves to New Jersey were from individuals aged 18-34, as the state serves as a “launch state” for younger families and those starting their careers.
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Open house at a home for sale in Evesham Township, New Jersey. (Fox News)
New Jersey has experienced stronger price growth compared to much of the nation, which can be appealing for older Americans looking to sell their homes at a high price and retire elsewhere, including states like South Carolina. This strategy allows them to avoid high mortgage and property tax payments.
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The states with the most inbound moves include:
- Oregon
- West Virginia
- South Carolina
- Delaware
- Minnesota
- Idaho
- North Carolina
- Arkansas
- Alabama
- Nevada
Heritage Foundation chief economist EJ Antoni breaks down October and November jobs reports, highlighting job losses among government bureaucrats and foreign-born workers on ‘The Bottom Line.’
Economic headwinds, particularly in the job market, have driven a “fundamental shift in American migration patterns,” according to United Van Lines’ 49th Annual National Movers Study.
The study, published last week, indicates a continued trend of population movement from the colder North and Midwest regions to the warmer South and West. This shift reflects changing priorities among Americans as they seek better living conditions and job opportunities.
Oregon emerged as the most popular destination this year, boasting the highest percentage of inbound migration at 65%. This influx is largely attributed to job-seeking migrants, with approximately 36% relocating for opportunities in the growing tech and healthcare sectors. The Eugene-Springfield metro area, in particular, saw the most inbound moves, with Springfield offering a lower cost of living compared to other Oregon metros, while still being conveniently located near Eugene and Portland.
HOUSING MARKET EXPECTED TO OFFER LITTLE RELIEF FOR BUYERS IN 2026 DESPITE MODEST IMPROVEMENTS AHEAD
According to the report, migration patterns are primarily driven by the desire to be closer to family, followed closely by job market considerations. Realtor.com senior economist Joel Berner noted that affordability is a significant factor attracting movers to states like Oregon and South Carolina, where housing costs are relatively low and job opportunities are plentiful.
Migration patterns are primarily driven by the desire to be closer to family, followed by the job market, according to the report. (Ty Wright/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Berner pointed out that the half-ring of top inbound states surrounding California illustrates this trend, as California itself remains a leading outbound state. Movers are increasingly targeting states like Oregon and South Carolina, where they can find affordable living costs alongside ample job opportunities.
THESE 10 MARKETS MAY SEE THE BIGGEST HOMEBUYING SURGE AS MORTGAGE RATES FALL
While Oregon is known for its high-paying tech jobs, South Carolina has emerged as a significant player in the manufacturing sector, attracting residents seeking diverse employment options.
Oregon is home to many high-paying tech jobs. (Marli Miller/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
In contrast, New Jersey has seen the highest outflow of residents for the eighth consecutive year, with 62% of moves tied to the state being outbound. However, about 21% of inbound moves to New Jersey were from individuals aged 18-34, as the state serves as a “launch state” for younger families and those starting their careers.
FED CUTS INTEREST RATES FOR THIRD STRAIGHT TIME AMID UNCERTAINTY OVER LABOR MARKET, INFLATION
Open house at a home for sale in Evesham Township, New Jersey. (Fox News)
New Jersey has experienced stronger price growth compared to much of the nation, which can be appealing for older Americans looking to sell their homes at a high price and retire elsewhere, including states like South Carolina. This strategy allows them to avoid high mortgage and property tax payments.
GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE
The states with the most inbound moves include:
- Oregon
- West Virginia
- South Carolina
- Delaware
- Minnesota
- Idaho
- North Carolina
- Arkansas
- Alabama
- Nevada
