2024 Study: Who’s Moving to Florida and Why?

Publish Date: April 2, 2024

Last Modified Date: April 17, 2024

Tags: Tags: climate change, col florida, cost of living florida, cost of moves, floria moves, Florida, florida moves, florida retirement, miami fl, moving data, moving statistics, moving to florida, naples fl, ocala fl, pensacola fl, reasons for moving, sarasota fl, tampa fl, wesley chapel fl

Key Findings

According to HireAHelper data, 11.4% more people moved to Florida than left in 2023.
In 2023, Wesley Chapel, FL (+106%) and Ocala, FL (+104%) had the highest net gain of new residents
The Miami, FL metro area had the highest net losses (-58%) in terms of moving
Ten times more people left Florida in 2023 for “change of climate” (≈43,000 people) than moved there for the same reason (≈3,700)
Retirement accounted for 8% of those moving to Florida in 2023
New Florida residents (average age 43) are, on average, 10 years older than Americans leaving Florida (average age 33)

In an episode of Seinfeld titled The Pony Remark, the eponymous character says, “My parents didn’t want to move to Florida, but they turned sixty and that’s the law.” Airing in 1991, the quote from this episode reflected a broader truth that many Americans were moving to Florida in droves during that time — especially New Yorkers

While Florida does have a history of being a retirement magnet that goes back to the 1910s, looking at migration to The Sunshine State through the lens of retirement moves would be reductive. As many as 4.3 million people moved to Florida from other U.S. states in the 1990s. Based on Census Bureau figures, for nine of 10 years of that decade, Florida was the #1 state Americans moved to.

“‘New job or transfer’…was by far the most common reason for moves bound for the Sunshine State, accounting for over half (~54%) of all moves to Florida in 2023.”

In this study, we delve into the migration trends shaping Florida today. Using a mixture of the U.S. Census and HireAHelper data, we explore moves to, from, and within Florida, and see which cities attract the most residents. We also outline the typical demographics of Florida movers, highlight the top reasons for people moving to or from Florida, and show how both have changed over time.

Southbound and Down: Three Decades of Migration to Florida

In the last 10 years alone, Florida welcomed 3.4 million Americans as new residents. That’s roughly the population of the whole state of Utah! Of those, more than a third (1.2 million) moved to the Sunshine State since 2020, according to the Census Bureau’s statistics.

And it shows. As per the latest population statistics available, two-thirds (66%) of Floridians were born elsewhere in the United States, which is second only to Nevada (74%).

For a state that’s as large as Florida, it’s rather common to see this high volume of moves. What’s more remarkable is Florida’s net migration numbers remain positive. Meaning, that more people continue to move to the Sunshine State than leave it.

According to HireAHelper estimates, approximately 11% more Americans moved to Florida than left in 2023, with an average of 13% net gain in residents in the last six years (which is as far back as our records go).

Along U.S. 1: Top Origins States to Florida are on the East Coast

And which states supplied all these new Florida residents? Migration to Florida used to be heavily dominated by New York, which was, according to the Census Bureau data, the #1 origin for moves going to Florida between 1990 and 2010.

In the last decade, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Ohio have featured prominently on the list of states sending most people to the Sunshine State. Most recently, though, the top spot belonged to Georgia. In 2023, around 87,000 people moved from Georgia to Florida, which represented a quarter of all interstate moves destined for the Sunshine State in 2023.

State	% of moves to Florida
Georgia	23.3%
New York	20.5%
Maryland	15.8%
Ohio	10.0%
Texas	9.4%
New Jersey	6.5%
Virginia	3.1%
North Carolina	2.7%
Arkansas	2.3%
Arizona	1.7%

Other states that contributed the most new residents to the Florida population in 2023 include New York (~21%), Maryland (~16%), and Ohio (10%).

To see how many people moved to Florida from your state, check out our interactive map below. You can also use the drop-down to go back in time and see how that’s changed over the years.

Jobs, Retirement, and Housing: Top Reasons for Moving to Florida

Many may associate moves to Florida with retirement, but the overwhelming majority of people heading to this state are doing it for job-related reasons.

“New job or transfer”, as the U.S. Census Bureau calls it, was by far the most common reason for moves bound for the Sunshine State, accounting for over half (~54%) of all moves to Florida in 2023.

Buying a home was the second most common reason for Americans relocating to Florida, with around 12% of all newly arrived Florida residents in 2023 making a move.

And then, there’s retirement – a reason responsible for 8% of all moves Americans made to Florida last year.

Buying a home in Florida and moving there is a fairly recent trend. A historic high of 20% of moves to Florida in 2022 were made for this reason, but it was never this common further in the past.

Conversely, “change of climate” declined as a reason for moving to Florida in recent times. Remember that to the Census Bureau, “change of climate” can mean either escaping the consequence of climate change (like flooding or hurricanes) or wanting more sunshine.

Accounting for roughly 10% of moves in any given year before 2020, less than 6% of people moving to Florida in the last three years did it because of the weather.

Move Over, Miami: Most Florida-Bound Moves Are Destined for the Gulf Coast

So with all those people moving to Florida, where are they choosing to live? In 2023, nearly half (48%) of all newcomers to Florida went to one of the following metro areas: Sarasota, FL (~24%), Tampa, FL (~13%) and Miami, FL (~12%).

Those familiar with Florida’s geography should notice that Sarasota, FL and Tampa, FL are on the Gulf Coast, as are five more metros that made the top 10 moved-to cities in the state.

Not only were Gulf Coast destinations most popular in 2023, but they also showed significant growth in the number of moves they attracted.

Sarasota, FL had 45% more moves in 2023 than the year before, while Tampa, FL registered a 53% annual growth in inbound moves over the same period. Pensacola, FL had 13% more out-of-staters move in 2023, while Naples, FL received twice as many new residents from outside Florida, compared to 2022.

Curiously, even though the Miami metro area did make the top 3 destinations for out-of-state moves to Florida, its appeal appears to be declining. The city’s 9% year-over-year decrease in the number of new residents from other states in 2023 followed a more precipitous drop of 33% in the year prior.

See prices for local moving labor. Read real customer reviews. Easily book your help online.

Cheaper, Safer, Quieter: More Floridians Move to Smaller, Inland Cities

Despite a significant number of people moving to Florida from other parts of the U.S., the overwhelming majority of moves these days are local. The latest Census Bureau statistics showed that 54% of those moving stayed within the same county, while our data showed that the average distance of a move in 2023 was 32 miles.

Based on data from HireAHelper moves in Florida, the two cities that saw the greatest net inflow of new residents in 2023 are Wesley Chapel, FL (+106%) and Ocala, FL (+104%).

“In 2023, the average household income of those moving to the Sunshine State was $104,000. Not only is it significantly higher than the national average of $74,580, but it is also 44% higher than the income of those leaving Florida…”

Other cities that had more people move in than leave include St. Augustine, FL (58%), The Villages, FL (+50%), Pensacola, FL (+49%), and Port St. Lucie, FL (+48%).

One trend likely impacting moves within Florida is extreme weather, as some Floridians flock inland to places like Ocala and The Villages to escape the hurricanes and the associated high home insurance costs in coastal areas. Nowhere in Florida is completely safe from a hurricane, but it seems moving away from certain coastal areas may be relatively safer.

Another consideration for moving decisions is traffic congestion and the high cost of living in Florida’s larger metros. These issues may be behind people’s moves to more suburban areas, such as Bradenton, FL or Port St. Lucie, FL.

10 Cities with Largest Net Gains	Net Moves, %	10 Cities with Largest Net Losses	Net Moves, %
Wesley Chapel, FL	106%	Hollywood, FL	-58%
Ocala, FL	104%	Fort Lauderdale, FL	-50%
St. Augustine, FL	58%	Palm Harbor, FL	-42%
The Villages, FL	50%	Miami, FL	-38%
Pensacola, FL	49%	Cape Coral, FL	-37%
Port St. Lucie, FL	48%	West Palm Beach, FL	-35%
Gainesville, FL	44%	Tampa, FL	-34%
Clermont, FL	43%	Fort Myers, FL	-31%
Port Orange, FL	27%	Orlando, FL	-31%
Daytona Beach, FL	23%	Pompano Beach, FL	-28%

In contrast, cities that had lost the most residents are Hollywood, FL (where 58% more people left than moved in), Fort Lauderdale, FL (-50%), and Palm Harbor, FL (-42%). Miami, FL wasn’t too far off with 38% more outbound than inbound moves in 2023.

Local reports suggest that the high cost of housing could be what’s driving moves out of cities in Miami-Dade County. Home prices reached up to 50% higher and rents were 30% higher in this area, compared to other places in Florida.

Our interactive map shows how other cities have fared in terms of people moving in and out in 2023, based on HireAHelper data.

Ocala for Cheaper Housing, Melbourne for Retirement: Moves to Florida Cities by Reason

If we look at why people are moving to different cities in Florida, a few interesting patterns begin to emerge.

According to our analysis of the Census Bureau data, 57% of people who moved to Ocala, FL did so because they bought a home there. New jobs were the main driver of moves to Naples, FL (58%) and Bradenton, FL (38%), while those moving to Port Saint Lucie, FL did so predominantly because they wanted a better home (41%) or a better neighborhood (36%).

Two cities on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Palm Bay, FL and Melbourne, FL, had around 40% of people moving there for retirement.

Finally, cheaper housing greatly contributed to those moving to Lakeland, FL (32%) and Naples, FL (30%).

But with some of the highest home prices in the state, Naples, FL being a destination “for cheaper housing” is surprising. Its status as a top 10 contender for those moving into Florida from other states might explain this discrepancy.

Older, Higher in Income, Mostly White: Demographics of Americans Moving to Florida

According to the figures from the Census Bureau, Americans moving to Florida were, on average, 43 years old and over half of them (53%) were women. Generationally, 56% of them are either Gen X (30%) or Baby Boomers (26%).

While 43% of newcomers to Florida were married, almost one in five (19%) were divorcees, which was the 4th highest proportion among all states.

From a racial standpoint, 75% of those moving to Florida were white, which was significantly higher than the 60% of white Americans among interstate movers nationally.

40% of Americans opting to move to Florida have a college degree (undergraduate or postgraduate), which was only slightly lower than the average of 43% of interstate movers nationally in 2023.

Looking at the demographics of people moving in and out of Florida, income is one characteristic that stands out. In 2023, the average household income of those moving to the Sunshine State was $104,000. Not only is it significantly higher than the national average of $74,580, but it is also 44% higher than the income of those leaving Florida ($72,427 on average).

This 44% difference between the incomes of those moving in and those moving out was the also highest it has been in over 30 years.

See prices for local moving labor. Read real customer reviews. Easily book your help online.

Younger, Mostly Single, Mostly People of Color: Demographics of Those Leaving Florida

With an average age of 33.5, two-thirds (67%) of Floridians who left the state in 2023 are either Millennials (36%) or Gen Z (31%).

Unlike those moving in, the majority (54%) of people who left Florida last year are people of color, with roughly equal shares of black (24%) and Hispanic Americans (24%).

When it comes to their marital status, 53% of former Florida residents choosing to move elsewhere are single. It must be noted that the Census Bureau’s definition of “single” includes cohabiting couples that aren’t married in the legal sense of the word.

As noted above, those leaving Florida earn significantly less than those moving in.

Jobs, Family, and Climate: Top Reasons for Leaving Florida

Speaking of leaving Florida, over 285,000 Americans left the Sunshine State in 2023. The most common reason for such a move was a new job (37%).

The second most stated reason for leaving Florida is the “other family” reason (16%), which the Census Bureau defines as moving in with or closer to family members.

The third most popular one — “change of climate” — was responsible for 15% of all moves out of Florida last year.

As stated earlier, the reason encompasses both those who move in search of better weather and those who move to escape climate change. What’s remarkable about this statistic is that in 2023, ten times as many people left Florida for climate-related reasons (≈43,000) than moved in (≈3,700).

Since the Census Bureau has started tracking reasons for moving in their Current Population Survey, the number of Americans leaving Florida for climate-related reasons has never outnumbered those moving into the state — until 2021.

Due to the ambiguous definition of this reason for moving, it’s impossible to say with 100% certainty that all those who left Florida for climate reasons were escaping climate change.

However, hurricanes in the state have been getting stronger and more devastating, and the temperatures are growing increasingly higher, especially in the southern parts of the state.

Cost, Size, Distance: Industry Stats on Florida Moving

For all the moving in, out, and within Florida, it remained one of the cheapest states in terms of moving costs.

The average price of a move was $390 in 2023, making Florida the 9th cheapest state for moving. Moving prices held surprisingly steady and only grew 4% in the last year, up from $375 in 2022.

“Migration to Florida used to be heavily dominated by New York, which was, according to the Census Bureau data, the #1 origin for moves going to Florida between 1990 and 2010.”

Much like in the rest of the US, the distances of moves in Florida decreased. With spikes up to 70 miles on average in the pandemic years, the average move distance in Florida in 2023 was 31.5 miles.

The average size of homes people are moving into and out of in Florida is 1,546 square feet. That is just under the typical size of a home in the Sunshine State, which is 1,694 square feet.

Sources and Methodology

HireAHelper’s Florida Migration Study used the following data sources:

local and long-distance moves in Florida that were booked in 2023 through HireAHelper.com and its partner sites and affiliates
Migration/Geographic Mobility Data series by the U.S. Census Bureau
U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey and its Annual Social and Economic Supplements, as available via IPUMS

Net gains and losses in people moving in/out for both states and cities were calculated as the ratio of:

# of people moving into the state or city, to
the # of people moving out of the state or city,
expressed as a percentage (%)

Comparisons of net gains and losses only include cities with at least 50 in- or out-moves.

2024 Study: A Look at the Biggest Wave of Retiree Moves in Three Years

Author: Volodymyr Kupriyanov

Publish Date: January 8, 2024

Last Modified Date: January 17, 2024

Category: Moving Advice

Tags: Tags: 2023 moving, 2023 retirees, 2023 retirement study, california, cheap housing, cleveland, cost of living, el paso, Florida, fort lauderdale, kansas city, miami, moving, moving after retirement, moving while retired, new jersey, new york, north port, pennsylvania, retire, retiree moves, retirees, retirement, retirement 2023, retirement cost of living, retirement moving, retirement relocation, south carolina, texas

Key Findings

More than 338,000 Americans moved to retire in 2023, an increase of 44% compared to 2022
Florida is the top destination for retirement moves that crossed state lines, attracting 11% of them in 2023
California (18%) and New York (11%) have the highest share of retirees moving to new states
Miami-Fort-Lauderdale, FL is the #1 metro for retirement moves, with 12.3% of them headed to this area in Florida
Nearly a quarter (23%) of all Americans moving to retire were early retirees aged under 55

The year 2023 was a big year for retirement moves!

According to the U.S. Census Bureau data, retirement moves reached a three-year high! With housing markets cooling off, inflation slowing down, and social security benefits increasing, it’s no surprise that 44% more Americans moved in retirement compared to in 2022.

How else have these developments affected moving after retirement in 2023? Where did retirees relocate to, and which places did they leave behind?

In this latest edition of our annual retirement moves study, we look at trends that shaped moving in retirement in 2023, highlight top origins and destinations, and zoom in on the changing demographics of retirees on the move.

Bucking the Trend: Retirement Moves Continued Rising Through 2023

In 2023, when the share of Americans who moved fell to a historic low of 7.8%, retirement moves registered a 44% growth compared to the year prior. That equates to more than 338,000 Americans moving to retire in 2023 — the highest in three years.

This means that after falling briefly during COVID, the number of Americans moving to retire has grown for the third consecutive year.

Similarly to the findings in our previous studies of moving for retirement, Americans who moved at this stage of their lives were more likely to relocate to a different state last year. A quarter (25%) of retirement moves in the U.S. in 2023 crossed state lines, compared to 18% of moves overall.

Sun, Sun, Sun: Florida Tops State Destination Rankings, Again

For those Americans choosing to retire out of state, Florida was again the number one destination in 2023. The Sunshine State attracted around one in ten (11%) of all retirement moves that went to a different state.

South Carolina gave Florida a good run for its money as the destination for 10% of all cross-state retirement moves in 2023. Meanwhile, New Jersey and Texas each accounted for roughly 6% of such moves, respectively.

“The 2023 crop of retirees on the move was significantly younger…37% of them were under the age of 65, including 23% who were under 55.”

As for the states retirees are leaving, the greatest share of relocating retirees came from California, with 18% of all retirement moves that crossed state lines originating in California. New York contributed a further 11% of retirees seeking a new place to live outside their home state.

Curiously enough, states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania appear on both receiving and leaving lists. This has to do with the fact that while many people do move to Florida and New Jersey for retirement, a similar amount of people are leaving these states too.

See prices for local moving labor. Read real customer reviews. Easily book your help online.

Miami Remains a Retirement Magnet: Top Metros for Retirees on the Move

In another victory for Florida, Miami-Fort Lauderdale was the top destination for retirement moves in 2023.

This metro located right on the Atlantic coast is well within its right to attract many of those seeking a great place to retire. Highland Beach — one of Fort Lauderdale’s suburbs — ranks #3 as the best place to retire according to Niche.com, while Miami is in the fourth spot of CN Traveller’s ranking of best retirement destinations.

And even though the cost of living in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metro is on the rise, it’s still significantly lower than in the U.S. biggest cities.

Other popular metropolitan areas last year included El Paso, TX (~8% of moves), and yet another Florida metro: North Port -Sarasota -Bradenton, FL (6%).

In the Midwest, Kansas City, MO -KS, and Cleveland -Elyria, OH each took about 3% of all retirement moves that took place in 2023. Both these metros have likely attracted many retirees due to affordable housing and a generally lower cost of living.

“In 2023, when the share of Americans who moved fell to a historic low of 7.8%, retirement moves registered a 44% growth compared to the year prior. That equates to more than 338,000 Americans moving to retire…”

Retirees with money

The fact that two Californian metros feature on the top 10 list of retirement move destinations in 2023 suggests two parallel trends within retirement moves.

Retirees with a good amount of savings and high pensions are likely moving to metros like Miami-Fort Lauderdale, FL and San Luis Obispo -Paso Robles, CA. Folks looking to save money in retirement, on the other hand, are more likely to choose El Paso, TX, and Kansas City, MO-KS — areas where settling down for retirement won’t cost a fortune.

To browse states and metros you may be interested in, check out the interactive map below:

Health and Family: Key Reason Behind Retirement Moves in 2023

Besides retirement itself, some of the most common reasons contributing to retirement movies in 2023, according to a recent U.S. Census Bureau moving data report, were said to do with family and health. “Better housing” and “cheaper housing” did remain relevant, but they’re not driving as many moves as they did in 2022.

It’s worth noting that “other family reason” was most often clarified to mean adding a new family member (e.g., pregnant, had a baby, adoption), moving with family member(s), or assisting or taking care of family members.

Because adding a new family member is unlikely for someone of retirement age, it’s safe to assume that the majority of retirees who moved citing “other family reason” did so to be closer to family, either to help take care of them or to receive care themselves.

“…the median household income of retirees who moved in 2023 was $88,347, which is 17% higher than a typical household income in the United States…”

This is consistent with the findings of our study of the Sandwich Generation — meaning adults “sandwiched” between taking care of their aging (and likely retired) parents, and their children.

More than a quarter (26%) of the respondents in our Sandwich Generation survey were considering moving their parents closer to give them the care they need, and 24% were thinking about their parent(s) moving in with them.

With so many retirees factoring in family and health into their moves in 2023, it’s likely this emerging trend is already starting to unfold.

See prices for local moving labor. Read real customer reviews. Easily book your help online.

Younger, Wealthier, and Most Likely Single: The Demographics of Retirees Moving in 2023

One standout feature of 2023 moving retirees is that they were overwhelmingly more likely to be single. (Or, at the very least, not married.)

In 2022, more than half (55%) of retirees moving were spouses. But last year, that share dropped to just 45% — the lowest percentage ever on record.

The 2023 crop of retirees on the move was significantly younger as well, as 37% of them were under the age of 65, including 23% who were under 55. Compare this to just 26% of 2022 retirees who were under 55.

In another change compared to 2022, a third (33%) of American retirees moving in 2023 were people of color, up from 14% the year before.

Finally, the median household income of retirees who moved in 2023 was $88,347, which is 17% higher than a typical household income in the United States, according to the latest data. It is also 35% higher than the median income of someone moving into retirement last year, which was just above $65,000.

Sources and Methodology

Unless otherwise stated, all the data behind the charts in this study were taken from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey and its Annual Social and Economic Supplements for 2023.

To calculate the most moved-in and moved-out states and cities, we took the percentage of all retirees in 2023 who moved or left a state or city.

Illustrations by Daniel Fishel

2023 Study: 3 Million Moves Driven by Extreme Weather Events Last Year

Author: Volodymyr Kupriyanov

Publish Date: July 12, 2023

Last Modified Date: July 25, 2023

Category: Moving Advice

Tags: Tags: california, census, climate change, climate change moves, climate study, disaster migration, earthquake, fire, fires, flood, flooding, Florida, global warming, hireahelper, hurricane, louisiana, moving, moving due to natural disaster, moving study, natural disasters, texas, tornado, tornados, wildfires, worst earthquakes, worst fires, worst floods, worst hurricanes, worst wildfire, worst wildfires

Key Insights

3 million Americans were displaced by a natural disaster at some point in the last year
530,000 (or 18% of those 3 million) still haven’t returned home after being displaced
25% of moves forced by natural disasters are people destined for a different state
Hurricanes and storms were responsible for 51% of all the disaster-related moves in 2022
Fires are most likely to result in long-term or permanent displacement, as 45% of those displaced by fires in 2023 never returned home

In this study, HireAHelper takes a close look at moves forced by natural disasters in the United States.

Using the most recent data from the Census Bureau’s large-scale Household Pulse Survey and Current Population Survey, we focused on the number of disaster-forced moves over time, their typical destinations, as well as the types of disasters forcing most Americans out of their homes.

Displaced or Moved Permanently: Counting the Number of Americans Fleeing Natural Disasters

Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey puts the number of Americans displaced by a natural disaster at 3 million.

This figure made national news earlier this year and represents the number of Americans who self-reported as being displaced from their home because of a natural disaster at some point in the past year.

3 million is a large number, but it’s worth noting that most displaced moves are temporary. According to the same survey data, 33% of those Americans who have been forced to leave their home due to a natural disaster at some point in the past 12 months return home within just a week.

A further 31% go back home within a month and 19% return after six months to a year away from their usual residence.

That said, as of May 2023, 18% of Americans displaced by a natural disaster still haven’t returned home after 12 months. This is equivalent to 533,000 people needing to figure out life in a new place after their previous living arrangement became untenable.

If we look at more permanent moves, however, the number of people who moved due to a natural disaster in 2022 is around 88,000. This figure comes from the Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey which targets “…individuals who have usual residences elsewhere,” meaning it reflects the number of people who moved permanently.

The most likely reason for the discrepancy between the number of permanent movies and the number of those still home after 12 months is timing. Current Population Survey data was released in late 2022 and could have been too early to reflect the full impact of disasters such as Hurricane Ian. In turn, Household Pulse Survey from April-May 2023 would already include people who have been displaced by extreme weather events in late 2022 and early this year.

States With the Most Americans Affected

One state stands out in terms of how many of its residents have been forced to flee their homes because of a natural disaster: Louisiana.

7.5% of people once residing in Louisiana had to, even if temporarily, leave their homes in the wake of a cataclysm in the past year — that’s one in 13 people.

“Not only is Texas by far the most common destination for moves made by those fleeing a natural disaster, but it’s also the state with the highest number of disaster refugees relative to the local population (58 per 10,000).”

Why? Even though there weren’t any singular stand-out disasters here in the past year, parts of the state are still recovering from the damage caused by Hurricane Laura in 2020 and Hurricane Ida in 2021.

The second most affected state is Florida, where 5.6% of residents found themselves displaced at one point or another in the past 12 months. And while Louisiana hasn’t experienced a major cataclysm last year, Florida had Hurricane Ian to contend with, which was one of the worst hurricanes in U.S. history.

Kentucky (2.6%), Alaska (2.5%), Michigan (2.2%), and New Mexico (2%) are the only other states where the share of those displaced by disasters rose above 2%. Everywhere else, the percentage of residents who had to leave their homes due to a natural disaster was reportedly under 2% of residents.

Wind and Fire: Disasters that Displace the Most Americans

Between hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes, what extreme weather events cause the greatest number of Americans to uproot their life and move?

“7.5% of people once residing in Louisiana had to, even if temporarily, leave their homes in the wake of a cataclysm in the past year — that’s one in 13 people.”

In absolute terms, it’s by far hurricanes that account for the lion’s share of displacements — 41%. Together with tornadoes, they are responsible for over half (51%) of all disaster-related moves in the United States.

Meanwhile, wildfires are responsible for 23% of all displaced moves in the past year, while floods account for 26% of such moves, depending on the source.

Events such as earthquakes, landslides, and volcanic activity also contribute to the displacement of people, though at smaller scales.

Impacts Per Type of Disaster

Despite hurricanes causing most of the displaced moves in the United States, their impact tends to be short-term. The share of those displaced by hurricanes that return home within a month is 67% and only 10% are displaced for more than a year.

On the other hand, 45% of those who escaped wildfires can’t return home even after a year of being forced out. Tornadoes have the second displacement effect with a quarter (24%) of those who had to move out because of a tornado still aren’t home after 12 months away.

Location-Based Insights:

Louisiana (7%) and Florida (5.6%) have the highest proportion of people displaced by a natural disaster in the last 12 months
Texas is the destination for 37% of all disaster-driven interstate moves since 2005
Texas (58), Tennessee (51), and Mississippi (48) are the most welcoming states, with the highest ratio of disaster refugees per 10,000 people
New York (2.7), Kentucky (2.8), and New Jersey (3) have the fewest incoming displaced moves per 10,000 residents

How Far and Where To: Top Destinations of Displaced Moves

Compared to regular moves for work or family reasons, permanent moves caused by a natural disaster tend to go a bit farther, or, at least historically.

Since 2006, two-thirds (65%) of Americans who move tend to stay within the same county, compared to just over half (55%) of those displaced by natural disasters stay nearby.

Conversely, 25% of those who moved due to a natural disaster went to a different state, compared to 15% of non-disaster-related moves, figures from the Current Population Survey show.

It’s these longer-distance moves of those displaced by an extreme weather event that reveal an interesting pattern.

Since 2006, 37% of Americans who had to resettle outside their state as a result of a natural disaster went to one state – Texas.

Not only is Texas by far the most common destination for moves made by those fleeing a natural disaster, but it’s also the state with the highest number of disaster refugees relative to the local population (58 per 10,000).

Tennessee (51) and Mississippi (48) follow as the second and third states by the number of domestic disaster refugees per 10,000 local residents.

Other states that have welcomed a significant number of displaced Americans include the three Midwestern states of Missouri (30), Wisconsin (28), and Michigan (26). Rounding off the top 10 are Arkansas and Georgia — both with 24 resettled Americans per 10,000 local residents since 2006.

State	Disaster Moves per 10,000 residents	State	Disaster Moves per 10,000 residents
Texas	58.2	New York	2.7
Tennessee	50.9	Kentucky	2.8
Mississippi	47.7	New Jersey	3.0
Wyoming	35.0	Connecticut	3.0
Missouri	30.1	California	3.2
Wisconsin	27.7	Indiana	5.1
Michigan	25.9	Nebraska	5.6
Oregon	25.5	West Virginia	5.9
Arkansas	24.4	Alaska	6.4
Georgia	23.9	Ohio	6.5

New York (2.7 per 10,000 people) and Kentucky (2.8) are the states with the lowest intake of displaced Americans compared to the local population, followed by New Jersey (3), Connecticut (3), and California (3.2), where the share of disaster-displaced new residents to the local population is around 3 per 10,000.

To see how many Americans displaced by natural disasters each state welcomed, check out our interactive map.

Tides of Change: Moves Forced by Disasters Over Time

The number of Americans who moved due to a natural disaster hasn’t reached the level of Hurricane Katrina since then. That storm was a cataclysm that claimed over 1,000 lives, forced over 1 million people out of their homes in late August 2005, and is generally considered one of the costliest cataclysms in U.S. history.

But there have been some spikes of displacements of over 100,000 that have coincided with U.S. natural disasters, such as Hurricane Ike in 2008, Hurricane Florence in 2018, and the California Wildfires of 2019.

The Current Population Survey data reflect more permanent moves, meaning the true number of people who were forced to move temporarily due to various cataclysms is likely a lot higher.

Fortunately, most Americans who had to flee their home due to a natural disaster eventually return home.

Sources and Methodology

Figures on the number of Americans that have been displaced by a natural disaster in the past 12 months, their place of residence, how long they were away from their homes, and what event caused them to leave their homes were all taken from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey.

Statistics on the number of Americans who were forced to relocate due to natural disasters over time, the length of their moves, and their destinations were taken from U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey (as available via IPUMS.)

U.S. Census Bureau’s state population estimates were used to calculate how many natural disaster refugees each state accepted per 10,000 residents.

Illustrations by Jiaqi Zhou

2023 Study: Where, How and Why Are Americans Moving This Year?

Author: Volodymyr Kupriyanov

Publish Date: July 5, 2023

Last Modified Date: November 3, 2023

Category: Local Moving

Tags: Tags: americans moving, best states to move, california, climate change, family, Florida, gen z, gen z moving, hawaii, mellinnials moving, millennials, moving, moving closer to family, moving costs, moving expensive, moving help, moving plans, moving season, moving trucks, professional movers, reasons for moving, san francisco, washington dc, where to move

Key Findings

More than half (52%) of all moves in America take place in the summer
Our survey findings suggest 40% plan on moving at some point this year
‘Family’ (30%) and ‘Wanting More Space’ (25%) are the top reasons for moving this year
A total of 38% are moving for financial reasons, such as inflation, cost of living, and housing unaffordability
Climate change is a factor mentioned by 15% of Americans planning to move this year
40% of those moving intend to stay within their city, but 18% are set on moving to a different state
More than half (55%) of those not moving this year would move if they had the means

Every year, millions of Americans move, and over half (52%) of those moves take place during what we in the moving business call “moving season” — otherwise known as the summer months of May through August.

So what does the moving season hold for us this year? To get a sense of how many Americans intend to move, when they’re going to move, and what drives their moving decisions, HireAHelper conducted a nationally representative survey of 2,000 adults in the U.S. earlier this month.

“The state most people have their sights on is California, where 11% would move if finances weren’t an issue.”

38% of Americans we surveyed intend to move at some point in 2023, collectively citing “Family“, “Looking for More Space” and “Wanting To Save Money” as the top reasons. A further 35% would move if they could, but find themselves struggling to afford housing where they want to live, or are struggling to afford the move itself.

Let’s delve into the findings and see how Americans look ahead to the 2023 moving season.

Moves in the Making: Four in Ten Americans Plan To Move in 2023

As we noted earlier, nearly four in ten (40%) of our survey respondents said they are planning to move at some point this year.

Moving intent is highest among the younger generation, as almost half (49%) of Gen Z respondents reported a planned move for sometime in 2023. And while this intent is still strong with Millennials (42%), it gradually fades with age, and dropping to a reported 27% for Baby Boomers.

Interestingly enough, Parents (41%) are more likely to be planning a move in 2023 than Non-Parents (36%). That said, that only applied to families with one or two kids. For families with three or more children, the percentage of those staying put exceeds the percentage of prospective movers.

Renters (46%) are more likely to be on the move than Homeowners (30%). However, only 25% of renters who are moving expect to own their next home, as 59% of renters reported moving to another rental.

Where are people leaving?

Among people living in America’s biggest metropolitan areas, the intent to move is highest in Washington, D.C. (72%) and Los Angeles, CA (55%). There, the majority of residents we surveyed reported having plans to move at some point this year.

In San Francisco, CA (47%), New York, NY (46%), Philadelphia, PA (46%), and Houston, TX (45%), the share of people who reported intent to move this year fell just below half.

Conversely, within the metros of Charlotte, NC (16%), Orlando, FL (32%), and Chicago, IL (32%), the moving intent is the lowest among all metros with a sufficient number of respondents.

At the state level, New Jersey residents seem most keen to move (56%), whereas those in North Carolina (24%) are least likely to relocate in 2023.

Family, Square Footage and Finances: Top Reasons Why Americans Are Moving in 2023

The number one reason for those intending to move this year was reasons related to “Family” (30%), (such as “Being Closer to Family Members,”) with “Wanting More Space or a Bigger Home” (~25%) being the second most popular choice.

“Those who do plan on hiring some help for their move are looking to spend an average of $675…[and those] who expect to move without hired help are looking to keep it at an average of $312.”

However, if we look at the financial reasons, we’ll find that many Americans are moving either because of “Foreclosure/Eviction” (7.5%), “Can’t Afford (Their) Current Housing” (10.7%), “(Moving Somewhere With) A Lower Cost of Living” (15.3%), or “Inflation” (17.2%).

If we add up all the respondents that said at least one of these financial reasons applies to them, the total share of Americans who intended to move due to financial pressures rose to 38%.

Granted, the higher rates of inflation from 2022 seem to have leveled out, but our findings suggest that financial pressures continue to compel a significant number of Americans to relocate.

The financial reasons above were mentioned at the following rates by these demographics:

Families with children (40%) compared to childless households (37%)
People of color (44%) compared to white Americans (36%)
Renters (41%) compared to homeowners (35%)

Other popular reasons for moving in 2023 include “New Job” (16.2%), which, in fact, is more popular than moving due to “(Becoming) Unemployed” (9.8%).

Curiously, and unfortunately, more people are moving due to an “End of a Relationship/Divorce” (10.3%) compared to those moving due to a “New Relationship or Got Married” (7.1%).

One significant reason that’s beginning to factor into the moving plans of Americans is “Climate Change” (14.9%), which is in fact distinct from “Want Nicer Weather” (10.4%).

According to estimates based on U.S. Census Bureau data, climate change affects some 20,000 moves per year, with experts suggesting that figure is set to increase.

Getting Practical: Planned Moving Distance and Estimated Cost

Based on our survey responses, 40% of people who are planning to move in 2023 are staying within the same city, while 33% intend to leave their current city, yet still stay within the same state.

Impressively, 18% of respondents intend to move to a different state. Specifically among those respondents, their reasons given were for “Better Weather” (38%), a “New Job” (34%), “Being Closer to Family” (21%), and “Seeking a Lower Cost of Living” (21%).

Thinking about the cost of their move, 44% intend to spend between $100 and $500 on moving, with an overall average being slightly higher at $530. This estimate includes buying moving boxes, potentially renting a truck, maybe hiring movers, etc.

Needless to say, not all Americans who plan on moving intend to hire movers, but 52% of them do, while 48% either intend to execute the move themselves or haven’t decided yet.

Those who do plan on hiring some help for their move are looking to spend an average of $675 between boxes, truck rentals, and movers. Those who expect to move without hired help are looking to keep it at an average of $312. (This figure is in line with nationwide averages of moving costs.)

See prices for local moving labor. Read real customer reviews. Easily book your help online.

Would If I Could: Common Barriers Preventing Americans from Moving

Quite a few Americans are planning to move this year, and the number could have been even higher if it weren’t for certain factors keeping people from moving.

Of those respondents that aren’t moving this year or aren’t sure yet, 55% would move if they had the means and opportunity. The main reason they can’t move? They can’t afford it. People claimed they “Can’t Afford To Move” (58%) or they “Can’t Afford Housing Where (They) Want To Live” (38%).

But it’s not just the financial worries that keep Americans from moving. About a quarter of respondents in our survey who’d move if they could selected “Would Be Too Far Away From (Their) Family” (24%), “Worried About Making a Big Change” (25%) or “Worried It May Not Work Out” (27%), respectively.

Perhaps these concerns, as well as the general decline in the percentage of Americans moving partially explains why, our study found that, on average, Americans now move an average of eight times in their lifetime, down from a 2007 estimate of 11.7 times.

Dream Destinations: Where Would Americans Move if Anything Was Possible

One question we asked in our survey was about the state Americans would move to if money was no object.

The state most people have their sights on is California, where 11% would move if finances weren’t an issue. Notably, Hawaii and Florida were the dream destinations for 9% of Americans, while New York and Colorado were the top choices for an additional 5% of respondents.

Texas — a state that’s recently been a popular destination for corporate moves — would also be the go-to place to be for 4% of respondents.

A surprising 4% would leave the United States altogether if they could, but as many as 9% of our respondents would not choose to leave their state, even if money was no object.

Sources and Methodology

All data, unless otherwise stated, have been derived from the findings of the survey HireAHelper ran via Pollfish in May 2023. The survey used a nationally representative sample of 2,000 adults (18+) living in the United States.

Survey results were weighted by age, gender, and income using data extracted from the American Community Survey’s five-year data, collected from ~120,000 households.

Illustrations by Nero Hamaoui

How Much Does it Cost To Move to Florida in 2023?

Author: Casey Bond

Publish Date: June 28, 2023

Last Modified Date: July 12, 2023

Category: Local Moving, Long Distance Moving Advice, Money Saving

Tags: Tags: avg florida movers, cape coral, cheap florida movers, clearwater, clermont, cost of moving to florida, fl tax rates, Florida, florida moving, florida moving costs, florida stats, florida taxes, fort lauderdale, gainesville, hollywood, jacksonville, kissimmee, lake worth, medley, melbourne, moving to florida, orlando, ormond beach, palm bay, palm coast, pensacola, plant city, riverview, sarasota, tallahassee, tampa, tampa bay, the villages

Once again, Florida is the number one state people are moving to, and according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Florida is the fastest growing state in the nation, sporting a population increase of nearly 2% between 2021 and 2022. As the third most populous state, that additional 2% brought the population up to 22,244,823 — that’s a lot!

How much does it cost to move to Florida? If you’re planning to join the ranks of people moving to Florida, you’ll want to know what it’s going to cost you. Every move is unique, but it’s definitely possible to get a good idea of what expenses to expect.

Below are average moving costs based on thousands of moves booked through HireAHelper and their affiliates.*

Florida Moving Costs in 2023

Avg. Cost of a Florida Move (Labor-only) – $391

Avg. Cost of a Florida Move w/ Transportation (Movers + Truck) – $911

Avg. Cost of a Long-Distance Move w/ FL Destination – ~$923-$8,050

Avg. Time and Distance of a Florida Move – 3.3 Hours

Avg. Distance of a Florida Move – 33 Miles

The time spent on a move that features an origin, destination, or both within Florida is 3.3 hours, while the average distance traveled is just over 30 miles. (Most moves are local.)

The average cost of a long-distance (or cross-country) move to Florida is roughly between $923 and $8,050 according to PODS. (This is actually an estimate using New York as a starting location with various final destinations in Florida.) The truth is that long-distance moving estimates can vary widely — much more than estimates for local moves.

Your final price will depend on factors such as:

How many bedrooms you’re moving
Which of the many different moving services you choose
If you need your car shipped
The time of year
How far you are going

If the idea of a fully DIY move is daunting, but the price tag for hiring full-service movers is out of your range, then you might want to try a consumer-first moving service that hunts down the absolute best value in your area, provides customer service, and manages the whole move for you.

Moving marketplace companies will try to get you the best prices available, as opposed to a single moving company trying to sell you on their most expensive services. For example, MovingPlace offers a hybrid moving service where you load, they haul, and you save money in the process. (They can even take care of shipping your car!)

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

MovingPlace can save up to 40% compared to traditional interstate moving companies. Click here to learn how.

How Do These Figures Compare to Other States?

$5 less, on avg.

The average cost of labor services for a Florida move is $5 less than the national average. (Across all move types and services, it costs an average of $396 to move locally anywhere within the country.)

The national average timeframe for moving is three hours (about twenty minutes shorter than an average Florida move), and items are transported an average of 74 miles (41 miles farther than the average Florida move). The specific moving services you use will make a difference, though.

The Current State of Moving to Florida in 2023

miami

When it comes to moving, these last few years have been pretty wild, to say the least.

Unsurprisingly, the pandemic played a large part in the reasons people chose to move, in general . In 2020, some were forced to find more affordable living arrangements, while others chose to move closer to family. In 2021, remote work and the desire to buy and sell homes in affordable markets influenced moves. It follows that in 2022, many cited “delayed plans” for their reason to move, as they were finally freed up to make the moves they had planned months or years earlier.

In 2023, economics and quality of life seem to be the main drivers for relocations. Americans are moving away from cities and states with inclement weather, high crime, and higher costs of living and into those with lower tax rates, better housing markets, and warmer weather. According to PODS data, the southern states are the most popular destinations, accounting for 17 out of the top 20 spots on their list of the most moved-to cities. (Three Florida cities made it into their top five!)

This lines up with HireAHelper’s own migration report as well, which found Florida to be the state with the most move-ins (by volume) last year.

While the cost of living in Florida may not be the absolute lowest, it’s still more affordable than 40 percent of U.S. states, coming in at less than 3 points above the national average. And when it comes to state taxes, Floridians have it made in the shade. And those who plan on retiring in Florida will be happy to hear that (once again) it’s been rated the best state to retire in.

Key 2023 Florida Moving Stats

Whether you opt for rental trucks or portable containers, there are multiple moving options available to you, and each one comes with its own pros and cons — including the price tag!

Avg. Cost of All Labor-only Moving Services

Transportation Type	Avg. Labor-Only
Container	$440
Truck	$480

Avg. Cost of Labor-only Moving Services in Florida by Type

Hiring labor-only saves people money, but which end of the move you hire for statistically makes a difference! The average cost of moving services by job type compared to the U.S. average is as follows:

Moving Service	U.S. Average	FL Average
Full move w/ both loading and unloading booked together	$573	$469
Moves with only unloading help	$343	$329
Moves with only loading help	$396	$365
On-site help only	$309	$319

Get Help Unloading Your Rental Truck

See prices for movers by the hour—instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

Which Cities in Florida Are Growing and Shrinking?

Florida City With the Greatest Population Increase**

Petersburg, FL (+57%)

Home to award-winning gulf coast beaches, a vibrant nightlife, and renowned museums, St. Petersburg is a primo destination located within Tampa Bay. Located just south of famous Clearwater Beach and west of Tampa, residents have access to all this tri-city area has to offer.

Florida City With the Greatest Population Loss**

Delray Beach, FL (-31%)

Despite the population loss, Delray is still dubbed the “enchanting village by the sea,” with a gorgeous beach and a charming downtown. Here you’ll find unique boutiques and a myriad of restaurants, art galleries, and bars.

**Population change over the last 12 months

Which Cities in Florida Are the Most Affordable?

Here’s a closer look at six of the most affordable cities in Florida and how their average household incomes and home values compare to the state averages*.

Most Affordable Florida Cities (by Median Home Value and Household Income)

City	Zillow Home Value	Median Household Income	Home Value to Household Income (Ratio)
Jacksonville	$298,897	$58,263	100:19
Tallahassee	$269,713	$49,077	100:18
Lakeland	$288,194	$52,972	100:18
Palm Bay	$307,952	$55,963	100:18
St. Petersburg	$357,690	$64,375	100:17
Gainesville	$288,260	$40,937	100:14
Florida Avg.	$385,157	$69,021	100:18

*Sources: Average home values are based on Zillow data and median household incomes are based on U.S. Census data (expressed in 2021 dollars) available as of last reported (June 2022).

Cost of Moving WITHIN Florida

Moving costs for a local Florida move (within 50 miles) tend to be less variable than long-distance moving costs.

The data repeatedly shows that you can expect to pay roughly $270–$625 for moving labor during a local Florida move. The factor that will most impact your estimate is which Florida city you’re leaving. (This is because the average cost of moving labor for some Florida cities is substantially more than others.)

Least Expensive Origin Cities for Moves Within Florida (Avg. for local move)

City	Average Move Cost (Labor-only)
Delray Beach	$268
Boynton Beach	$289
Wesley Chapel	$322
Ormond Beach	$322
Boca Raton	$326

Most Expensive Origin Cities for Moves Within Florida (Avg. for local move)

City	Average Move Cost (Labor-only)
Gainesville	$624
Tallahassee	$547
Winter Garden	$546
Sarasota	$516
Palm Coast	$500

What Are Florida’s 2023 Tax Rates?

When planning for the cost of moving to Florida, it’s important to think beyond expenses like movers and packing supplies. Local taxes are an ongoing expense, which is important to consider before making the move.

Fortunately for anyone considering a move to the Sunshine State, taxes are quite low in Florida. If you’re moving from a state with a heavier tax burden, you’ll probably find that your paycheck will stretch further in Florida and it suddenly won’t be so hard to put away a little for savings.

Sales taxes in Florida include:

Florida income tax rate: 0% (There are no income taxes in FL)
Florida sales tax rate: 6%
Average local sales tax rate: 1.05%
Florida gasoline tax rate: 32.22¢
Florida cigarette tax rate: $1.34 (per 20-pack)

If you’re considering moving to Florida, be sure to compare the cost of living in your new city to your current city. Even if you’re moving for a job that requires you to work in one of the state’s larger, more expensive metros, you don’t necessarily have to live there. There are plenty of affordable Florida suburbs that offer a great quality of living with proximity to big-city amenities.

*Unless otherwise indicated, the previous statistics are based on thousands of moves carried out by the halfway point of 2023. These data points are calculations of average and median costs of “labor-only” and/or “Mover + Truck” moving services booked through HireAHelper.com, as well as “Long Distance Move” moving services from MovingPlace.com, and may also include additional related moving data from industry partners and affiliates collected between 2022 and 2023.

Illustrations by Naomi Ann Clarke

2023 Study: Corporate Relocation at Highest Rate Since 2017

Author: Volodymyr Kupriyanov

Publish Date: June 13, 2023

Last Modified Date: June 29, 2023

Category: Office Moves

Tags: Tags: arizona, burlington, california, cambridge, corporate, corporate move, corporate relocation, corporation, Florida, headquarters, how to move, hq, moving 2022, moving 2023, moving data, moving for business, moving for work, moving headquarters, moving hq, moving states, moving study, moving study 2022, moving study 2023, nevada, new york, office, office moving, office moving states, san jose, seattle, sec, sec data, securities and exchange commission, spring, texas, top states moving, utah, waltham, washington

Key Findings

593 (~9%) of America’s corporations moved headquarters since the beginning of 2022, the highest rate since 2017
29% more companies moved their HQs in 2022-23 than in the previous fiscal year
20% of corporate relocations happened within the same city; 31% moved to a different city within the same state
62% of corporations moved to a city with a smaller population
According to our survey, 72% of people would be prepared to move with their employer, provided relocation costs were covered
Almost half (44%) of our survey respondents would be willing to follow their employer to a different state

Whether to cut costs, gain a more beneficial tax rate, or be closer to a target market, about 9% of corporations in the United States moved their headquarters within the past fiscal year — the highest percentage since 2016-17, according to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings.

States like New York and cities like Seattle are seeing corporate headquarters move away, while smaller cities outside large urban centers are becoming new homes to big companies in tech and pharmaceuticals.

Our study breaks down where companies are moving to, which states and cities they’re leaving behind, and whether workers are on board with following their employer to their new HQ location.

On the Move: Corporate Relocation Rate Highest in Seven Years

According to the most recent SEC figures, 593 (or 8.9%) of the roughly 6,700 publicly traded corporations in America moved their HQs in the past fiscal year (i.e., March 2022-March 2023).

2022-2023 had the highest rate of corporate headquarters relocation in seven years, and it’s been on the rise since it took a dip to below 7% in 2020 (likely due to the pandemic).

Comparing the absolute number of companies moving their offices year-over-year, the 593 corporations moving HQs in 2022-23 represents a 29% growth over the fewer number of companies (458) that relocated in 2021-22.

It is also the highest year-over-year bounce in a decade, besting even the post-pandemic return to activity in 2021-22. That was a banner year, where the number of corporations relocating their HQs went up by 25%.

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

HireAHelper.com can save up to 40%, compared to traditional interstate moving companies. Click here to learn how.

Top States

Florida for the Win: Which states are corporations moving to?

Not only are corporates moving in high numbers, but as many as 24% of those that moved chose to relocate their headquarters to a different state entirely. Here’s the breakdown.

Florida had 86% more corporations move their HQ there, compared to the number of companies that chose to move their head office out of Florida — the highest net gain of any state!

Texas, the state that in the last year has officially moved their welcomed Hewlett-Packard and Caterpillar Inc, among other companies, saw the second highest net gain (71%).

Two other states had notably strong showings, Arizona (+65%) and Utah (+57%), both saw very impressive growth in the number of HQs of America’s corporations they now host.

Which states are corporations leaving?

Office moving trends appear to be relatively similar to individual people’s moving trends, at least in the sense that leaving places like New York and California is a popular idea.

The state that corporations were most likely to abandon was, surprisingly, Washington, with 83% more companies leaving it than moving in. Notable departures include media company Arena Group, and Clearsign Technologies, a developer of emission control solutions.

New York (-51%) and California (-46%) aren’t far behind Washington, ranking second and third among the states that lost the most corporate HQs, respectively.

Among the companies that left New York are Philip Morris International and the financial firm Assurant, Inc. California’s noteworthy departures include the coworking space giant WeWork and clinical nutrition company Guardion Health Sciences.

Location-based Insights

Florida (+86%) and Texas (+71%) are the states with the greatest net gain of corporate headquarters in the past year
Washington (-83%) registered the highest net loss of corporate HQs since the start of 2022
Waltham, MA (+175%), Burlington, MA (+133%), and Spring, TX (+100%) had the most corporate move-ins, compared to the number of those moving out
Cambridge, MA (-40%), Seattle, WA (-37%), and San Jose, CA (-25%) are the cities with the largest net losses of corporate HQs in the past year

Top Cities

Going East: Which cities are corporations moving to?

When it comes to specific destinations for corporates looking for a new HQ, Waltham, MA saw the highest corporate net growth across cities over the past fiscal year (+175%). (Five companies moved to this relatively small city on the outskirts of Boston, and not a single one left.)

Noteworthy new corporate residents of Waltham, MA include biotech and pharmaceutical firms such as Cogent Biosciences and CinCor Pharma.

Burlington, MA (+133%) and Spring, TX (+100%) are second and third in growth, respectively. Burlington’s newly headquartered corporations are software companies and biotech firms, while Spring, TX is where Hewlett-Packard moved their headquarters in a widely publicized move.

Meanwhile, three cities in Florida are among the 10 with the highest net gains: Jacksonville, FL (+67%), Tampa, FL (+49%), and Miami, FL (+33%).

Which cities are corporations leaving?

Unexpectedly, the city that lost the most corporate HQs compared to the number it gained is Cambridge, MA (-40%).

This famous college town next to Boston, MA has long been a mecca for many biotech and pharma firms, which seemingly doesn’t leave room for previous industry giants.

“Not only are corporates moving in high numbers, but as many as 24% of those that moved chose to relocate their headquarters to a different state entirely.”

Just beneath Cambridge, Seattle (-37.5%), as well as multiple cities in the Bay Area of California, lost multiple company headquarters over the past fiscal year compared to the number they gained. New York City (-13.4% ) also makes an appearance in the 12th spot.

It is worth noting that despite the net losses, dozens of companies still established their new headquartered in New York City within the past year, as well as in other net loss cities, like San Jose and San Francisco.

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

Top Potential Reasons for HQ Relocations: Lower Taxes, Lower Rent

Based on our most recent moving study, Americans mostly move for new or better housing, or for a new job. But what are the main reasons behind corporate relocations?

One commonly presumed reason is the desire to cut costs, which can mean moving to areas where taxes are lower. This might explain why Florida and Nevada are seeing more corporations move in versus out.

Of note, the Tax Foundation’s 2023 State Business Tax Climate Index measures, among other things, how burdensome state taxes are on businesses. It lists Florida and Nevada among the 10 least tax-burdened states. Meanwhile, Texas — a state without a corporate tax — is not too far behind in 12th place.

“Assuming moving costs are covered, over 72% of respondents in a nationally representative survey HireAHelper conducted earlier this month said they’d be ready and willing to move with their employer.”

Another reason for corporate relocation is that the cost of office space is too high. Looking at office rent levels across the country, most cities that registered net losses of corporate HQs (e.g., New York City and San Jose) are among the most expensive for business rental costs.

The cost of office space is a problem that’s also been exacerbated by the rise of remote work in the pandemic years. America’s biggest cities continue to struggle with high office vacancy rates, as companies remain remote, or adopt a hybrid work arrangement.

In support of this trend, our analysis of 2022-23 SEC filings showed that 62% of corporates that relocated their HQ in the past year moved to cities with smaller populations, and in turn, more affordable rental rates.

Employee Perspectives: Most Americans Willing To Move with Employer

It’s sensible for corporations to seek better fiscal conditions for their business. But what about the employees that get caught up in corporate relocations and transfers?

We may not know what percentage of employees are forced to relocate when a corporation moves its HQ, but we do have data that suggests a significant percentage of employees would be willing to move for work.

Assuming moving costs are covered, over 72% of respondents in a nationally representative survey HireAHelper conducted earlier this month said they’d be ready and willing to move with their employer. Surprisingly enough, ~27% would be willing to move to a “nearby” state, and almost one in five (~17%) said they would consider traveling with their employer across the country.

On the whole, willingness to relocate with the employer reportedly decreases with age; Gen Y/Millennials (~78%), are more likely to move with their employer than Gen Z (~74%).

Curiously enough, it’s actually Gen X that seems most amenable to moving to a different state on the other side of the country (~21% of Gen X respondents, compared to ~19% of Millennials and ~15% of Gen Z members.).

Having children doesn’t appear to dramatically affect the desire to follow the employer’s move, either. Over 75% of Parents would be prepared to make a move for their company, provided relocation costs were covered, which is actually more than the 69% of Non-Parents who said they were willing to move with the company they worked for.

People of Color (~78%) are more likely to consider such a move than White Americans (69%), with ~31% of people of color saying they would be prepared to move to a state in a different part of the country, compared to ~25% of white Americans.

Sources and Methodology

All the data used in this study, unless otherwise stated, were taken or derived from the public database of Financial Statement Data Sets, available on the website of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Headquarters location was taken as the “business address” field of each company’s filing and each change in the business address of the company was counted as a move of their headquarters.

The annual HQ moving rate in a given year was calculated as the number of companies that changed address compared to the total number of companies that had filed with the SEC in that year, expressed as a percentage.

As per the disclaimer issued by the SEC regarding this data: “The Financial Statement Data Sets contain information derived from structured data filed with the Commission by individual registrants as well as Commission-generated filing identifiers. Because the data sets are derived from information provided by individual registrants, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the data sets. In addition, it is possible inaccuracies or other errors were introduced into the data sets during the process of extracting the data and compiling the data sets.“

Only companies based in the United States were included in the analysis.

Illustrations by Sean O’Brien

2022 Study: Where Americans Moved To Retire This Year

Author: Volodymyr Kupriyanov

Publish Date: December 19, 2022

Last Modified Date: May 17, 2023

Category: Moving Advice, Moving Stories

Tags: Tags: cheap housing, cheaper housing, columbus, early retirement, Florida, hireahelper, inflation, maryland, movers, moving 2022, moving inflation, north carolina, ohio, oregon, orlando, retire, retire move, retired people moving in 2022, retiree, retiree move, retiree moves, retiree study, retirees moving 2022, retirement data, tennessee, titusville, washington, where are people moving

Key Findings

Over 234,000 Americans moved to retire in 2022, 4% more than in 2021
12% of American retirees moved for “cheaper housing” — highest % since 2014
Florida is top destination for retirement moves (~12% of all retirees)
Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL (9%) top metro destination for retirement moves
Oregon the state retirees most likely to leave — origin state of 10% of retiree moves
Retirees of color more than 2x likely to move in search of cheaper housing (20%) than their white counterparts (9%)

In last year’s study of retirement moves, the COVID-19 pandemic was very much the central theme in many people’s moves.

Yet while the effects of the pandemic are still being felt across the country, this year’s driving narrative has been inflation; the economy is of course connected to cost of living, savings, and home prices, all touchstones of the retirement equation.

As American retirees face an increased estimate for the amount of money needed to retire comfortably, 36% of retirees reported their living costs as higher than expected, while 56% expected to continue working after they retire. How has this impacted how many people retired this year? And where did they all go?

On the Rise Again: Number of Retirement Moves Increased in 2022

After a significant dip in 2021, the number of Americans who moved to retire this year has gone up to reach over 234,000. It’s still some way off the pre-pandemic levels, but that’s 4% greater than the number of people who moved to retire last year.

American retirees continue to move at an increasing rate, despite pressures associated with the cost of living and the changing home market temperatures in many parts of the country. Knowing that more people are once again beginning to move more for retirement, what are some of their reasons for moving?

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

Family and Cheaper Housing: Why Are More Retirees Moving in 2022?

Inflation and the associated rise in the cost of living are likely contributing to why over 12% of American retirees who moved in 2022 said they did so to find cheaper housing.

Housing was second only to “other family reasons” (e.g., “being close to family”). Cost-conscious retirement moves are at their highest level since 2014.

Not coincidentally, retirement moves for “new and better housing” have fallen sharply; upscaling now makes up 10% of all stated reasons for a retirement move, down from 18% as early as 2019.

“In 2022, the Sunshine State attracted almost 16% of all retirees choosing to retire outside their state, the highest of any state.”

It’s worth noting that retirees of color were more than twice as likely to move in search of cheaper housing (18%) than their white counterparts (8%).

These overall findings suggest that retirees are more sensitive to inflation than anticipated by many and, while home prices have begun to fall, they are still significantly higher than they were this time last year.

Florida is Back, Baby! Sunshine State Tops Retirement Move Destinations

After coming in second in our 2020 retirement move study and the same study last year, Florida is once again the top destination for out-of-state retirement moves.

“…36% of retirees reported their living costs as higher than expected, while 56% expected to continue working after they retire.”

In 2022, the Sunshine State attracted almost 16% of all retirees choosing to retire outside their state, the highest of any state.

North Carolina takes the second spot, with almost one in ten (9.6%) retirement moves crossing state lines going to this state.

A new entrant on this year’s top 10 is the state of Washington. Drawing about 5% of out-of-state retirees, Washington state jumped to the seventh spot of this year’s ranking.

Goodbye Oregon: States Retirees Were Most Likely to Leave

Their destination may be in Florida, but in terms of origin, Oregon was the state retirees were most likely to leave. As one of the most expensive states in the country to live in, Oregon saw as many as 10% of people moving to retire leaving the state.

Maryland placed second in states retirees were most likely to leave, with 7% of local retirement moves heading elsewhere. Idaho, a state we often see get the greatest net gains in our annual reports, had 3.4% of all local retirees leave the state when moving for retirement.

Popular Metro areas: Palm Bay, FL a Hit With Early Retirees

Compared to last year, Americans moving in retirement in 2022 tend to prefer staying in urbanized areas slightly more, according to the data.

“… retirees of color were more than twice as likely to move in search of cheaper housing than their white counterparts.”

The key beneficiary of retirees’ intention to settle in metropolitan areas is Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL, which attracted 9.2% of all retirement moves in 2022 — more than any other metropolitan area.

Having once been named the best place for early retirement (albeit by itself), this area to the southeast of Orlando seems to live up to that reputation; 37% of its newcomer retirees were between the ages of 55 and 64.

In second place, the greater Columbus, OH area drew slightly under 6% of all retirees looking for a new place to live. The Ohioan metro ranking so highly this year is likely another testament to cost of living being one of the priorities for retirees planning their moves in 2022.

Elsewhere, there are two notable metro areas located in Tennessee, Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro, TN (5.3%) and Knoxville, TN (3.2%), which combined attracted 8% of retirees who chose to move this year.

Who Is Moving in Retirement in 2022? A Look at the Demographics

Much like last year, 86% of Americans moving in retirement were white, and just 14% were retirees of color.

Married people accounted for 55% of all retirees relocating in 2022, with the remaining 45% being single, including those widowed, divorced, as well as those who never married.

Finally, while almost three-quarters (74%) of those moving in retirement in 2022 were over 65, some 26% were early retirees in 2022.

Sources and Methodology

Unless otherwise stated, all the data behind the charts in this study were taken from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey and its Annual Social and Economic Supplements for 2022.

To calculate the most moved-in and moved-out states and cities, we took the percentage of all retirees in 2021 who moved or left a state or city. “Early retirees” was operationalized as any retiree aged younger than 65 years old.

Illustrations by Daniel Fishel

The Ultimate Moving Guide for Snowbirds

Author: Lauren Thomas

Publish Date: October 31, 2022

Last Modified Date: November 2, 2022

Category: Long Distance Moving Advice, Seasonal & Holidays

Tags: Tags: arizona, car shipping, charleston, Florida, fort myers, galveston, how much do I need to retire, how much to be a snowbird, how to retire, las vegas, mexico, moving to florida, moving to mexico, nevada, retire, retiree, retirement, retirement community, sc, scottsdale, snowbird, snowbird financials, snowbird guide, snowbirding, snowbirds, south carolina, staycation, texas, ultimate guide, where to retire

Living along the East Coast is great during the warmer months of the year. But who enjoys shoveling snow from their driveways, scraping ice off their windshields, and staying inside with stuffy, dry heat? Snowbirds don’t.

What exactly is a snowbird? Anyone who migrates away from cold climates and rides out the winter in a place that’s much milder is the classic definition of a snowbird. States like Arizona, Texas and Florida are all popular snowbird destinations, since their climates rarely – if ever – reach freezing, even during the cold months.

If this lifestyle sounds appealing, you might consider becoming a snowbird yourself. But before you do, you should know the following stuff.

Who is “snowbirding” right for?

Typically, people think of snowbirds as retired or elderly people. And they tend to be just that; the average age of a Florida snowbird is 70 years old.

It makes sense; winter chores that involve shoveling snow and walking across ice can be more dangerous for older folks. Plus, the cold and snow make it harder to get out and keep up with necessary active habits, like walking.

But you don’t have to be a senior citizen to be a snowbird! Just about anyone who wants to wear shorts or keep a tan all year can do it. That is, as long as their lifestyle and financial situation allow it.

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

When do you need help?Where do you need help?

What to consider before becoming a snowbird

One of the biggest considerations when deciding whether to become a snowbird is finances. No surprise, but it can be expensive to travel back and forth between two locations every year, potentially paying rent or mortgage on two homes.

How much money do I really need to become a snowbird?

Snowbirds are usually high-income retirees who bring in at least $75,000 per year. If you’re still in the early-ish years of your career, experts recommend planning and saving extra for the snowbird lifestyle sooner rather than later.

“If you’re new to snowbirding, it may be a good idea to rent for the first couple of years.”

Aside from the financial aspects, you’ll also want to consider the general lifestyle you want to live. Many people think of snowbirding as a vacation… but it’s not! You’ll be living in your second home for several months out of the year; things you enjoy on vacation may not be what you want out of your day-to-day life. And of course, if you’re still working, your schedule needs to allow for flexible and remote work options.

What about living in an RV?

If you’re planning to live in an RV as a snowbird, you’ll need to factor in vehicle maintenance, gas, and the cost of a site. Some parks and resorts offer deals for long-term stays, so it’s important to check around for deals before settling on a spot.

Protip: Remember, people also tend to generally socialize and eat out more when snowbirding, so factor that into your portable lifestyle budgeting!

Renting vs. buying a second home

A big question when getting ready to begin the snowbird lifestyle is whether you should rent or buy your second home. There is no one right answer — it will depend on several factors.

If you’re new to snowbirding, it may be a good idea to rent for the first couple of years. That way, you don’t lock yourself into a property in a location that you may not end up liking that much. Renting is also a good idea if the market is not buyer friendly, or you’re unsure about upkeep costs.

“Depending on your tax situation, it may make more financial sense to claim residency in your snowbird state instead of back home.”

On the other hand, it might make sense to buy a property if you’re definitely set on a certain location and you can afford it. Your second home should double as an investment property and an asset to leave to your heirs. Just keep in mind that you’ll be responsible for more than just the rent!

At the broadest level, there will typically be expenses second home expenses such as:

Interest
Property taxes
Homeowners Insurance
Repairs/maintenance

All this stuff generally equates to about 1% of a home’s value annually.

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

Am I ready to maintain two properties?

Whether you decide to rent or buy, you’re still going to spend the time and energy upkeeping two properties. This will mean keeping track of:

Two sets of bills
Cleaning
Investing in maintenance and renovations
Landscaping
Possibly “winterizing”

You might also need to spend extra money on hiring a housekeeper, gardener, handyman, etc. to help you keep up. To help pay for all this, people often list their properties on Airbnb or VRBO when they’re out of town to offset the costs of maintenance.

How do you balance friends and family?

Somewhat surprisingly, one of the biggest challenges snowbirds report facing is maintaining relationships; it makes sense, given you’re gone half the year!

For example, you might want to spend Thanksgiving or Christmas at the beach in Florida, while your kids may be celebrating at home in Maine. You can’t always call up your friends for impromptu cocktails, and will probably have to lean on pre-scheduling for most of your get-togethers. Whatever you do, just don’t overlook this huge change in your social life.

What other things am I forgetting?

Choosing your snowbird destination and how much time you’ll stay there mostly depends on your finances and preferred lifestyle. But you should also think about the reality of your chosen destination!

For example, some areas in the east and south are prone to hurricanes, and you might be required to purchase flood insurance. Yes, you may love the beach, but you need to account for what major expenses could come your way if your property is severely damaged in a storm.

And don’t forget about the tax rate in the state you claim as your second residency.

Depending on your tax situation, it may make more financial sense to claim residency in your snowbird state instead of back home. Popular snowbird states such as Florida, Texas, and Nevada don’t charge income taxes, whereas other states such as California, New York, and New Jersey have high taxes. Just be sure to find out the rules surrounding how many days you need to spend in that state to be considered a resident.

How To Prep for Your Snowbird Migration

Preparing to move to your temporary home is typically less involved than making a one-time move to a new destination. You’ll have less to pack, so the process should require less time and money spent on professional movers. Still, there are crucial preparations to be made.

How to set up a home to sit vacantly

Before leaving, it’s important to close up your home so it can stay safely vacant while you’re away. Here are things to consider:

Second Home Checklist:

Have mail forwarded (here’s a good guide)
Set up online bill pay
Set the thermostat between 55-60 degrees so pipes don’t freeze
Shut off the water
Unplug major appliances to save on energy
Test smoke alarms
Lock all doors and windows
Set some lights on a timer
Install guard on the chimney
Clean out gutters
Put outdoor furniture and decorations in storage
Install a camera or home security system
Let your neighbors know you’re leaving
Hire a gardener
Hire a snow removal company, if needed

Preparing for a short-term move

When it comes to moving short-term, start by thinking about what types of professional services you’ll need.

If this is your first time visiting the destination, you may need to ship some items like furniture and appliances. Shipping costs can vary widely, depending on the size, weight, and destination.

Shipping a moving container in the U.S. costs an average of $3,000, while international shipping costs can range between about $1,400 and $6,900.

Subsequent trips might only require a U-Haul, or maybe just your personal vehicle. Here’s a guide to help with rental truck comparisons.

Cleaning

When you pack, try to clean as you go. The unpacking process will go much smoother at your new place if you can put dishes directly into the cupboards and load up bookshelves without having to stop and dust first.

Need help? Here’s a guide for cleaning your place based on the season.

Going between places is also a great time to downsize! And it’s easy; while going through your belongings and deciding what to pack, simply set aside items that you don’t use or don’t need. Donate anything that’s in good condition and toss the rest (you may need to schedule a bulk trash pickup with your local service). You’ll start your snowbird lifestyle clutter-free, as well as make room for the new things you pick up as you travel.

Snowbird packing essentials

Every time you make the transition between homes, it’s important to ensure you have certain essentials with you. Be sure to bring the following:

The correct important documents: You’ll need identification, such as your driver’s license and passport, copies of your insurance policies (e.g., health, auto, and insurance for both homes), as well as important medical information like paper copies of prescriptions.
Medications: Speaking of prescriptions, it’s important to stock up on medications before leaving town. Have enough to last through the trip, plus extra in case you get delayed. Make sure you have pharmacies established near both homes. Finally, don’t forget to carry a basic first aid kit when traveling between homes (e.g., bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment).
Appropriate clothing: Keep in mind that you’ll need to pack for the weather you’re moving to, not what you’re moving from. Of course, you might keep a few things at each location, but be sure you have boots and a winter coat when traveling north and lightweight items with sun protection when heading south.
Tech and gadgets: Bring along your most used tech items (e.g., tablet, laptop, phone, etc.) and all the associated accessories (e.g., chargers, wall plugs, portable batteries, etc.).
Creature comforts: Is there a brand of coffee you can’t live without and can only get from that one café at home? Is your dog obsessed with a certain squeaky toy? Don’t forget to pack the things that make your two houses feel like home!

Think critically about what to bring vs. what to buy or rent

While it’s nice to have a double set of everything you own, it might not make financial sense to buy a whole house’s worth of stuff twice (at least, not right away).

Think about what items are key and which ones you can do without or rent/borrow when you’re at your snowbird location. As you spend more time there, you inevitably gather more of the items it turns out you really need.

When it comes to important paperwork, such as birth certificates, Social Security cards, etc., it’s best not to travel with the original copies. Keep those in a fire-proof safe or deposit box at a bank, and make copies to keep inside your second home.

Vehicle transportation

Most snowbirds drive their vehicle back and forth between their two homes, or drive a second vehicle south to keep at their winter destination. Keep in mind that this can involve multi-day trips, with hotel, gas, and food stops along the way. Look for hotel discounts or places that include breakfast to save money.

If you choose to ship your vehicle instead, be sure to budget for the cost.

The average cost to ship a car is around $2.00 per mile for short moves of less than 200 miles, according to Forbes. The price drops to $0.58 per mile for long-distance moves of 1,500 miles or more.

Securing valuables

When it comes to valuables like expensive jewelry or art, again, it’s best not to travel back and forth with them. At the same time, you want to be sure that wherever you do leave these items, they’re safe while you’re gone. (The last thing you want is to stress about what would happen if someone broke in or a pipe burst.)

Your best bet for storing important or valuable items is a safe deposit box. This will ensure that your belongings aren’t susceptible to theft or damage. The second-best option is a secure and well-hidden safe that’s attached to the wall or floor. Again, installing a security system plus having neighbors keep an eye on your place can provide extra peace of mind.

International moving considerations

If you are moving internationally, you’ll also want to consider factors such as the exchange rate, the cost of living, travel prices, and more. For example, your dollar may go much further in a destination overseas, but if the plane tickets are expensive, it may not make financial sense to fly back and forth twice a year.

Also, consider the local language. If the last time you spoke Spanish or Portuguese was your Sophomore year of high school, you may need to brush up on your skills so you can communicate effectively in your new destination. Some countries also have rules around how long you can stay in town, and you might need to apply for a special visa to stay for several months.

Top Snowbird Destinations

Not sure where to claim “Home No. 2” yet? Here are some of the best snowbird destinations in the U.S. based on weather, cost of living, and available activities.

Scottsdale, AZ

If you prefer a snowbird home in the Southwest, one solid option is Scottsdale, Arizona. This city in the Sonoran Desert stays dry year round, though it can get a bit cooler in the winter. The coldest month is December, with temperatures ranging between the mid-60s in the day and mid-40s at night, on average. It’s a great destination for wine lovers, with many vineyards surrounding the city.

Fort Myers, FL

If you prefer a warmer and wetter environment, consider Fort Myers, Florida. Here, temperatures sink to a high of 74°F and low of 55°F during the coldest month of January. This is a great city for active people, with plenty of swimming, fishing, and cycling. (Please keep in mind that recent hurricanes have altered the economics in Fort Myers, so it’s imperative that you do your research.)

Charleston, SC

Those who appreciate a mix of culture and nature will love living in Charleston, South Carolina. It’s home to many historical sites and trendy restaurants, as well as surrounding beaches and islands. The weather rarely dips below the 40s even in the midst of winter, so you can enjoy the outdoors year-round.

Galveston, TX

Home to “winter Texans,” as they’re affectionately known, Galveston is another excellent destination during colder months. It’s a charming city with Victorian architecture, golfing, and horse trails, yet is close to major cities like Houston if you want to change things up with a more Urban experience. Its coldest month is typically January, when the lows hit about 49°F, on average.

Las Vegas, NV

If you’re looking for a city with lots of activities and plenty of nightlife, Las Vegas is without a doubt your top destination. Along the strip, casinos go all out with winter decorations, but the daytime temperature hovers in the 50s, so you won’t feel the need to stay couped up indoors. You’ll also be able to attend many concerts and live events, as well as find award-winning dining and world-class shopping.

Mexico

This list would not be complete without mentioning that Mexico is an ideal place to live seasonally. Home to places like Puerto Peñasco (otherwise known as “Rocky Point”) and Nuevo Vallarta in Jalisco, Mexico is forever a beautiful and temperate destination. (Ensenada in Baja California and Quintana Roo are also highly recommended places to wait out the cold season.)

Clearwater, Florida Real Estate Guide 2022: Neighborhood by Neighborhood

Author: Jesse Relkin

Publish Date: March 31, 2022

Last Modified Date: April 18, 2022

Category: Buying & Selling a Home, Neighborhood Advice

Tags: Tags: clear water, clearwater, clearwater florida, clearwater neighborhoods, clearwater real estate, coachman lake estates, coachman ridge, countryside, dunedin, Florida, florida guide, greebriar, harbor oaks, island estates, mandalay, movers, movers in florida, moving to florida, moving to tampa, old clearwater bay, palm harbor, presidential neighborhood, safety harbor, sand key, seville, tampa

When my family and I moved to Clearwater, Florida as a teenager after having grown up in Los Angeles, I thought my life was over.

I vowed that as soon as I had the chance, I would move back to California. But more than 20 years later, welp, I’m still here. It turns out, Tampa Bay has become an impressive metropolitan center in its own right; it has an affordable housing market, reasonable cost of living, and white sugar sand beaches to boot. I mean, who wouldn’t want to live here?

With the current pandemic moving frenzy, many are eager to relocate to the Tampa area. If that includes you, this guide is probably just what you’re looking for. Here’s an overview of some of the best Clearwater neighborhoods to choose from and some tips on how to snag the perfect-for-you house in this ultra-hot market.

Where Exactly Is “Clearwater”?

Clearwater is a city in Florida located on the Gulf Coast of Central Florida, and it’s known as part of the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater metropolitan area, which occupies a sprawling 2,554 square miles and contains a population of 3 million people and growing.

Should you move to Clearwater?

This area is growing for a reason. Each of the trio of cities (i.e., Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, Clearwater) have their own distinct personality. With the #1-rated white-sand beaches in the country, the Clearwater area is best described as spring break heaven. Indeed, living in Clearwater is kind of like being on vacation all year long. (Plus there’s the added benefit of residing in a major metroplex without feeling lost or overwhelmed in urban sprawl.)

“…to New Yorkers, Californians and other folks hailing from states with much higher home price tags, Clearwater real estate is a really amazing deal.”

But it’s not just a tourist’s paradise! Tampa Bay is also a great place to live and do business. Tampa was just named the fifth-best city for real estate investors by PwC and the Urban Land Institute, and the number-four city in the U.S. for net inflow of residents in 2021 by Redfin. With $13 billion being invested in massive development projects in the area, especially along Tampa’s waterfront, the city is well-poised to become one of the South’s preeminent cities in the twenty-first century.

Get Help Unloading Your Rental Truck

See prices for movers by the hour—instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

When do you need help?Where do you need help?

An Overview of the Clearwater, Florida Real Estate Market in 2022

According to Redfin, as of March 2022:

Clearwater home prices were up 43.4% over last year, with a median price of $344K
Homes in Clearwater stay on the market an average of 11 days, compared to 25 days the previous year
“Hot” Clearwater homes can go pending in about 4 days and sell for about 3% above list price

To learn more about the current Clearwater real estate market and get some expert insights on the best neighborhoods, I reached out to a longtime friend, Matt Sharp, who’s been a realtor in Clearwater for 18 years (crazy how time flies!). (He’s also a screenwriter with a feature film in the works.)

When I asked Matt about how the Clearwater real estate market is going, he confirmed that it’s about as crazy as I suspected after having seen my friends scramble desperately over the past couple of years to buy homes here. He remarked the only other time he’s seen the market this hot was during the 2006–2008 real estate boom.

To Floridians, today’s home values seem daunting. But, as Matt explains, to New Yorkers, Californians and other folks hailing from states with much higher home price tags, Clearwater real estate is a really amazing deal. Combine that with year-round sunshine, no state income tax, plentiful golf courses, and a thriving economy, it’s no wonder everyone is flocking to Tampa Bay. Plus, given the cultural influx of remote workers, many Californians and New Yorkers don’t even have to give up their higher-paying jobs to move here.

In fact, Matt says he’s seeing homes snatched up even faster than what Redfin is reporting: “You blink and they’re gone. If it’s priced appropriately and in decent shape, it will be off the market within 24 hours with the bidding price well above asking.” But don’t get discouraged. Matt says as long as you’re prepared to act fast, it really is possible to land yourself a home you love in Clearwater.

More Clearwater, Fl real estate facts

According to Realtor.com, the median listing home price is $330K and the median listing home price/sq ft is $244
Clearwater has a total area of 39.2 square miles, 25.6 of which is land and 13.7 percent of which comprises beautiful blue-green waters
As of the 2020 Census, the population is 117,292, the 17th largest city in Florida
As of the moment of publication, there are 928 homes for sale, ranging from $6,500 (those would be one of the area’s many mobile and manufactured homes) to $25.9M

Best Neighborhoods in Clearwater, Florida: 2022 Real Estate Guide

Here’s a neighborhood-by-neighborhood guide to the greater Clearwater area.

Clearwater Beach

Median home price: $725K (Realtor.com)

We may as well start with Clearwater’s crown jewel — world-famous Clearwater Beach. Across the Intracoastal Highway and accessible by the Clearwater Memorial Causeway, this barrier island boasts two-and-a-half miles of white silky-smooth beaches.

Clearwater Beach draws 5 million visitors a year. The beaches ranked as America’s number one beach in 2016, 2018, and 2019, and number six for World’s Top Beaches in 2019 by Tripadvisor. (Fun fact: Clearwater Beach is also the home of former pro wrestler and TV personality Hulk Hogan, whom I occasionally run into at the grocery store — nice guy.)

Over the years, Clearwater Beach has morphed from a laid-back beach town into a highly developed tourist destination offering a number of towering (read: sun-blocking) resorts, yacht clubs, family-friendly attractions, restaurants, and bars. “It’s mostly occupied by condos, the majority of which are purchased by snowbirds and out-of-towners,” Matt explained.

I feel that it’s only fair to warn you that causeway traffic is very real — especially during Spring Break. However, my Clearwater Beach friends assure me it’s well worth the trade-off for their waterfront views.

Mandalay

Price range: $850,000 to $5.5M

Located in the northern part of Clearwater Beach, Mandalay mostly features modest and mid-sized houses. Your choices range from historic 1930s-built, character-rich homes to brand new construction. The neighborhood is quiet and peaceful, and the beach is just a quick walk (or golf-cart drive) away.

Island Estates

Price range: High-$700,000s up to $7M

If you’re after waterfront property, Island Estates is your go-to neighborhood, with most of its homes lying along the Mandalay Channel or the Pope Channel. Featuring condominiums and mid-size to large single-family homes, the area attracts a mix of families and retirees. The area is also conveniently located next to the Island Estates Yacht Club, the upscale, waterfront Island Way Grill, and the world-renown Clearwater Marine Aquarium (most famous for being the erstwhile home of Winter the Dolphin, who sadly passed on late last year).

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

MovingPlace can save up to 40% compared to traditional interstate moving companies. Click here to learn how.

Sand Key

Price range: Mid-$500,000s to as high as $5.5M

Sand Key lies just south of Clearwater Beach over the Sand Key Bridge on the border between Clearwater Beach and upscale Belleair Beach. Sand Key could probably be nicknamed “Low Key” for its laid-back feel. Fewer resorts and condos populate this section of town, which means noticeably less traffic. Most of the homes are mid-size vacation homes, dating back as early as the 1970s. The community boasts access to outdoor amenities such as Sand Key Park, Sand Key Beach, and Abu Seba Beach.

Its residents are also fortunate to enjoy close proximity to the award-winning Columbia restaurant — a Mediterranean-style beauty once named one of the 100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America by OpenTable thanks to its breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Presidential Neighborhood

Price range: $400,000s to the mid-$700,000s

The Presidential Neighborhood — so-called for its streets named after American Presidents like Jefferson and Madison — offers quaint historic charm only minutes from Downtown Clearwater. If you’re looking for older but still well-maintained homes from the 1930s and 1940s with lots of character, this neighborhood is for you. It’s also as family-friendly as you can get; it’s not uncommon to see children playing outside in the streets, and Halloween is a big deal. It’s our go-to spot for trick-or-treating every year, anyway.

Harbor Oaks

Price range: $6.5M to $18M

Located just south of Downtown Clearwater and stretching along the Intracoastal Waterway, Harbor Oaks is an upscale neighborhood containing mid-size homes, larger homes, and luxury estates dating all the way back to 1915. With its historic character, Harbor Oaks reminds me of the Presidential Neighborhood, but the homes are more widely spaced out and larger (square footage averages 2,500, and garage apartment additions are common). Lush greenery, waterfront views, and quaint, covered Magnolia Drive Pier makes the neighborhood ultra-strollable.

Coachman Ridge

Price range: $550,000 to $650,000

Coachman Ridge is one of the most popular neighborhoods among my family-minded friends, and Matt agrees; it’s the place to be for families for its insulated, community-oriented feel. The neighborhood often hosts block parties and neighborhood-wide yard sales, and on an ordinary day, you can catch children playing in the wide streets. “Yard sizes are also decent here — not massive, but bigger than the ones you’ll find in brand new developments,” Matt added.

Keep in mind as well that as the subdivision was built in the 1980s, so many homes need updating. You’ll likely need to make sure you have some room in your budget for renovations if you pick a Coachman Ridge home.

Coachman Lake Estates

coachman lakes florida — thelegendsofrealestate.com

Price range: $850,000 to $900,000

Located just north of Coachman Ridge, Coachman Lake Estates is one of Clearwater’s “best-kept secrets,” according to Matt. It’s so well kept that I hadn’t even heard of it myself. Matt says it’s an ideal neighborhood if you’re looking for a very big house (2,700–4,500 square feet) and lots of land — lot sizes tend to measure an acre or more. The homes also offer distinctive character; no cookie-cutter neighborhood here.

Old Clearwater Bay

Price range: Mid-$200,000s to $2.5 million

Stretching along Old Clearwater Bay off Fort Harrison Road between Dunedin and Downtown Clearwater, this strip of land is narrow but densely packed with a mix of luxurious waterfront estates, vacation homes, and modestly sized bungalows dating back to the 1930s and 1940s. The older homes and pre-1960s mom-and-pop commercial properties lend the area some historic charm, but the up-and-coming area is definitely in the earlier stages of coming up. Because of the smaller house sizes (not counting the waterfront properties), residents tend to skew younger and are typically single.

Countryside

Price range: Mid-$400,000s to over $1M

Built largely during the massive 1980s Pinellas County population explosion, Countryside occupies the northern part of Clearwater. But it’s home to a number of neighborhoods and subdivisions of its own. This area contains a mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes. Many houses have their own unique character and can range from mid-size to larger, from around 2,200 square feet to 3,600 square feet.

Countryside attracts a lot of affluent families (Countryside High School is nicknamed “Country Club High School” and some of its students have been known to sport luxury vehicles). The private Countryside Country Club offers golf, swimming, and tennis. Countryside residents also enjoy close proximity to Countryside Mall, which boasts a movie theater, an ice skating rink, popular chain restaurants such as P.F. Changs and the Cheesecake Factory, and the only Whole Foods (!) in Pinellas County.

Get Help Loading Your Container

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

Greenbriar

Price range: Mid-$200,000s to around $500,000

On a budget or just starting a family? Greenbriar is one of the more modestly priced neighborhoods on our list. First built in the 1960s, the neighborhood is made up of post-WWII tract homes as well as 55+ condos. With smaller homes — mostly 2-bed 2-bath and an occasional 3-bed 2-bath — Greenbriar is popular with younger families. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, Greenbriar is a quiet, serene neighborhood, but it’s only a short drive to outdoor recreation, entertainment, and dining options including Countryside Mall, Caladesi Island State Park, and the On Top of the World Golf Course.

By the way, Greenbriar is a deed-restricted community with HOA fees, but residents have access to Greenbriar’s community center with a pool, game area, pool table, and fitness center.

Seville

Price range: Mid-$100,000s to the mid-$200,000s for condominiums

Rental prices: $1,500 to $3,000 per month

Not quite ready to buy a house, or need more time to look? The condominiums and apartment homes of Seville might be right for you. Centrally located within Clearwater and right off US-19, Seville offers easy access to the rest of Tampa Bay. The neighborhood is adjacent to Clearwater Mall, a sprawling outdoor shopping center that includes Costco, Super Target, Ross and others, plus a number of chain restaurants. But with Seville’s communities tucked away behind dense greenery and overlooking Tampa Bay, you’d never know you were so close to all that big-city commotion.

My favorite spot near Seville is Bayside Arbors, a waterfront luxury apartment community nestled among 40 acres of majestic oaks, where you can watch dolphins play in the bay from its Mediterranean-inspired community center.

Florida Neighborhoods Close to (But Not Technically) Clearwater

Pinellas County is home to 24 incorporated municipalities, many just a hop, skip, and jump away from Clearwater. Here are a few adjacent and nearby towns to explore during your Clearwater house hunt.

Dunedin

Medium home price: $425K (Realtor.com)

Located just north of Clearwater along the Gulf Coast, Dunedin offers beautiful views of St. Joseph Sound. It’s also home to Caladesi Island State Park, Honeymoon Island State Park, and Dunedin Causeway beach. Dunedin’s vibrant, artsy downtown boasts a variety of galleries, restaurants, and bars, and there always seems to be some festival or other going on down there. Dunedin’s wide array of properties include condos, small family homes, and historic waterfront estates.

Palm Harbor

Median home price: $359K (Realtor.com)

Palm Harbor lies just north of Dunedin, about 15 minutes from Clearwater proper. Its got a low crime rate and great schools — some of the highest rated in Pinellas County. “In Palm Harbor, you can enjoy somewhat of a small-town feel while still being able to easily access the rest of Pinellas County through US 19,” Matt said. Much of Palm Harbor was built in the 1980s, so cosmetic updates may be needed if you choose to buy a home here.

The median home price in Palm Harbor is just slightly above Clearwater, hovering at $359,000. But prices can vary from anywhere in the mid-$200,000s to the mid-$700,000s, with the occasional multimillion-dollar outlier.

Safety Harbor

Median home price: $485K (Realtor.com)

Lying just east of Clearwater along Tampa Bay, Safety Harbor draws a lot of Clearwater residents to its bustling downtown, which like Dunedin, offers quaint small-town vibes, and eclectic restaurants, bars, and shopping. Properties vary substantially from the modestly sized, older homes that were literally built by hand in the 1920s, to large suburban homes constructed during the massive Pinellas County population boom in the 1980s.

If you’re interested in moving to the Tampa Bay area, Clearwater is a not-so-hidden gem and an ideal spot to call home. And for everything it offers, it’s also a surprisingly affordable city (at least for the time being).

The word on Clearwater appears to be getting out, so I recommend you grab yourself a spot in the sun sooner rather than later. Good luck in your search!

Key Findings

“‘New job or transfer’…was by far the most common reason for moves bound for the Sunshine State, accounting for over half (~54%) of all moves to Florida in 2023.”

Southbound and Down: Three Decades of Migration to Florida

Along U.S. 1: Top Origins States to Florida are on the East Coast

Jobs, Retirement, and Housing: Top Reasons for Moving to Florida

Move Over, Miami: Most Florida-Bound Moves Are Destined for the Gulf Coast

Cheaper, Safer, Quieter: More Floridians Move to Smaller, Inland Cities

“In 2023, the average household income of those moving to the Sunshine State was $104,000. Not only is it significantly higher than the national average of $74,580, but it is also 44% higher than the income of those leaving Florida…”

Ocala for Cheaper Housing, Melbourne for Retirement: Moves to Florida Cities by Reason

Older, Higher in Income, Mostly White: Demographics of Americans Moving to Florida

Younger, Mostly Single, Mostly People of Color: Demographics of Those Leaving Florida

Jobs, Family, and Climate: Top Reasons for Leaving Florida

Cost, Size, Distance: Industry Stats on Florida Moving

“Migration to Florida used to be heavily dominated by New York, which was, according to the Census Bureau data, the #1 origin for moves going to Florida between 1990 and 2010.”

Sources and Methodology

HireAHelper’s Florida Migration Study used the following data sources:

local and long-distance moves in Florida that were booked in 2023 through HireAHelper.com and its partner sites and affiliates

Migration/Geographic Mobility Data series by the U.S. Census Bureau

U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey and its Annual Social and Economic Supplements, as available via IPUMS

Net gains and losses in people moving in/out for both states and cities were calculated as the ratio of:

# of people moving into the state or city, to

the # of people moving out of the state or city,

expressed as a percentage (%)

Comparisons of net gains and losses only include cities with at least 50 in- or out-moves.

Key Findings

Sun, Sun, Sun: Florida Tops State Destination Rankings, Again

“The 2023 crop of retirees on the move was significantly younger…37% of them were under the age of 65, including 23% who were under 55.”

Miami Remains a Retirement Magnet: Top Metros for Retirees on the Move

“In 2023, when the share of Americans who moved fell to a historic low of 7.8%, retirement moves registered a 44% growth compared to the year prior. That equates to more than 338,000 Americans moving to retire…”

Health and Family: Key Reason Behind Retirement Moves in 2023

“…the median household income of retirees who moved in 2023 was $88,347, which is 17% higher than a typical household income in the United States…”

Younger, Wealthier, and Most Likely Single: The Demographics of Retirees Moving in 2023

Sources and Methodology

Unless otherwise stated, all the data behind the charts in this study were taken from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey and its Annual Social and Economic Supplements for 2023.

To calculate the most moved-in and moved-out states and cities, we took the percentage of all retirees in 2023 who moved or left a state or city.

Illustrations by Daniel Fishel

Key Insights

States With the Most Americans Affected

“Not only is Texas by far the most common destination for moves made by those fleeing a natural disaster, but it’s also the state with the highest number of disaster refugees relative to the local population (58 per 10,000).”

Wind and Fire: Disasters that Displace the Most Americans

“7.5% of people once residing in Louisiana had to, even if temporarily, leave their homes in the wake of a cataclysm in the past year — that’s one in 13 people.”

Impacts Per Type of Disaster

How Far and Where To: Top Destinations of Displaced Moves

Tides of Change: Moves Forced by Disasters Over Time

Sources and Methodology

Figures on the number of Americans that have been displaced by a natural disaster in the past 12 months, their place of residence, how long they were away from their homes, and what event caused them to leave their homes were all taken from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey.

Statistics on the number of Americans who were forced to relocate due to natural disasters over time, the length of their moves, and their destinations were taken from U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey (as available via IPUMS.)

U.S. Census Bureau’s state population estimates were used to calculate how many natural disaster refugees each state accepted per 10,000 residents.

Illustrations by Jiaqi Zhou

Key Findings

“The state most people have their sights on is California, where 11% would move if finances weren’t an issue.”

Moves in the Making: Four in Ten Americans Plan To Move in 2023

Where are people leaving?

Family, Square Footage and Finances: Top Reasons Why Americans Are Moving in 2023

“Those who do plan on hiring some help for their move are looking to spend an average of $675…[and those] who expect to move without hired help are looking to keep it at an average of $312.”

Getting Practical: Planned Moving Distance and Estimated Cost

Would If I Could: Common Barriers Preventing Americans from Moving

Dream Destinations: Where Would Americans Move if Anything Was Possible

Sources and Methodology

All data, unless otherwise stated, have been derived from the findings of the survey HireAHelper ran via Pollfish in May 2023. The survey used a nationally representative sample of 2,000 adults (18+) living in the United States.

Survey results were weighted by age, gender, and income using data extracted from the American Community Survey’s five-year data, collected from ~120,000 households.

Illustrations by Nero Hamaoui

Florida Moving Costs in 2023

Avg. Cost of a Florida Move (Labor-only) – $391

Avg. Cost of a Florida Move w/ Transportation (Movers + Truck) – $911

Avg. Cost of a Long-Distance Move w/ FL Destination – ~$923-$8,050

Avg. Time and Distance of a Florida Move – 3.3 Hours

Avg. Distance of a Florida Move – 33 Miles

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

How Do These Figures Compare to Other States?

$5 less, on avg.

The Current State of Moving to Florida in 2023

Key 2023 Florida Moving Stats

Get Help Unloading Your Rental Truck

Which Cities in Florida Are Growing and Shrinking?

Florida City With the Greatest Population Increase**

Petersburg, FL (+57%)

Florida City With the Greatest Population Loss**

Delray Beach, FL (-31%)