More than 24.2 million people in the U.S. moved in 2022. Data from RentCafe shows 14.6% of people moved for new or betting housing, while just over 13% relocated for a new job or job transfer. The data reveals findings about housing-, job- and lifestyle-related reasons for moving including cost, commuting time, health and wanting to own a home.
The Midwest was home to the highest rate of those moving for new or betting housing, with Chicago atop the list. Modesto and Stockton in California's Central Valley topped the list for those searching for a break on their wallets. Fresno was also on the list. Those wanting to start their own household was a bit of a mixed bag with Albany, N.Y., home to the highest percentage of movers wanting to establish a home. Buffalo was fourth.
The Southeast was the top-heavy favorite for those in search of new work. Nearly a third of movers to Augusta, Ga., were doing so for a new job or transfer. Madison, Wis., and Pittsburgh were the only non-Southeast metros on the top 10 list. Pensacola, Fla., and Charleston, S.C., were nearly even as the top locations for movers with health reasons.