2024 Study: Half As Many Millennials Move as a Decade Ago. Where Are They Going?

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Key Findings

  • 11% of millennials moved in 2023, only half as many as a decade ago
  • “New or better housing” (16%), ”New job” (13%), and “Establishing own household” (11%) are the top stated reasons for millennial moves
  • The share of millennials moving for “Cheaper housing” (9%) in 2023 is the highest it’s been since 2011
  • Montana (+95%), Connecticut (+56%), and Maine (+54%) saw the most millennials move in, compared to moving out
  • Tampa, FL (+95%) metro saw almost twice as many millennials move in versus leave
  • Metros of New York, NY (-56%), San Jose, CA (-51%), and Los Angeles, CA (-40%) saw far more millennials leave versus move in

America’s largest generation – millennials (those born between 1982 and 2000) – are steadily rolling towards becoming middle-aged, and grappling with the fact that they may not be better off than the generations before them.

This is because millennials are among the highest earners, yet they are also the generation with the second highest level of household debt. As of last year, the share of millennials who own a home has finally reached over 50%, while some 16% are still living with their parents

 

[High mortgage rates and low home sales] could explain why the amount of those in this generation who move has steadily declined. The share of millennials who moved last year is half of what it was just a decade ago.”

 

And despite a relatively strong year for job growth and the economy in general, 2023 had the highest mortgage interest rates in recent history, with the worst home sales record in 28 years.

This could explain why the amount of those in this generation who move has steadily declined. The share of millennials who moved last year is half of what it was just a decade ago.

To understand millennials’ living situation better, we examined the trends shaping millennial moves in the United States and highlighted the cities and states that saw the most millennials leave, as well as move in.


Why the Share of Millennials on the Move Has Almost Halved Over a Decade

Reflecting broader national moving trends, the share of millennials who moved over the last decade has declined. And this decline is rather sharp! 

Unlike Gen Z whose moving rate is trending upward, only 11% of millennials moved in 2023, down from 21% the decade prior (2013).

In part, such a slowdown can be a natural consequence of people settling into their life, becoming homeowners, having children, and establishing themselves in their careers. However, as various studies suggest, millennials are less likely to own a home, be married or have kids

This is why the explanation for the declining rates of millennial moves is likely more to do with the socio-economic situation millennials find themselves in.

Housing Unaffordability

On average, aspiring first-time buyers can’t afford home ownership, due to the almost complete unaffordability of homes across the United States. 

And the millennials who can afford a home are unlikely to buy (and move into) a newer home because current mortgage rates are two to three times higher than in the previous decade.

Renting

The situation in the rental market is similarly dire. While rental rates seem to have plateaued lately, they’re still 22% higher than before the COVID-19 pandemic, while average earnings in the same period have risen by 3.2%, according to the U.S. Treasury.

Debt & Finances

Another factor that’s holding millennials back from moving is finances. Saddled with an enormous amount of debt (a lot of it from student loans), many millennials likely find themselves unable to afford to move, with many living paycheck to paycheck.

In last year’s HireAHelper moving survey, 58% of respondents (and 60% of millennials) who wanted to move said they had to stay put because they couldn’t afford to move. This combination of economic trends and financial forces leaves many Americans, millennials chief among them, locked into their current housing situation, unable to get onto the housing ladder — let alone move upwards.


New Homes and New Jobs: Top Reasons for Millennial Moves

So what about those millennials who did manage to relocate? 

The three main drivers of millennial moves in 2023, according to our analysis of the U.S. Census data, were ”Wanted new or better housing” (16%), “New job or job transfer” (13%), and “To establish own household” (11%).

When it comes to moving for new jobs, millennials are the most likely generation to make such a move. Only Gen Z comes close, with 11% of their moves taking place for new jobs.

It is also for the first time since before the declaration of the COVID-19 Pandemic that job-related moves accounted for as many as 15% of all moves that they collectively made.

At the same time, a roughly equal share of millennials moved “For cheaper housing” (9%) and more explicitly, reportedly moved because they “Wanted to own a home, not rent”(9%).


To and From: Origins and Destinations of Millennial Migration

Millennials might be moving less than before, but they still account for around 1 in 5 of all moves (18%) across state lines in 2023, based on our analysis of the U.S. Census data.

Top States for Millennials

Looking at the U.S. states, Texas attracted the highest number of millennials moving out of their home state. 

Last year, the Lone Star state welcomed almost 400,000 millennials as new residents, which is nearly 10% of all the cross-state moves made by millennials in 2023!

In terms of net moves (i.e., the ratio of those moving in, versus those moving out), the undisputed leader is Montana, where 95% more millennials moved in than left.

 

Last year, the Lone Star state welcomed almost 400,000 millennials as new residents, which is nearly 10% of all the cross-state moves made by millennials in 2023!”

 

Four other states had around 50% more millennials move in versus out: Connecticut (+56%), Maine (+54%), Oklahoma (+53%), and New Hampshire (47%).

One possible explanation for why these particular destinations were chosen is due to household income

Those making interstate moves to Maine, Connecticut, and New Hampshire had a 29% higher household income than those moving to Montana, Oklahoma, and South Carolina.

State Net Millennial Moves State Net Millennial Moves
Montana 95% New York -52%
Connecticut 56% California -39%
Maine 54% District of Columbia -33%
Oklahoma 53% Iowa -31%
New Hampshire 47% Louisiana -29%
South Carolina 40% Massachusetts -28%
Texas 39% Illinois -25%
Florida 38% Wisconsin -20%
Tennessee 38% North Dakota -18%
Arizona 37% Arkansas -11%

Bottom States for Millennials

When it comes to states millennials were most keen to leave behind, the biggest losers were New York (-52%), California (-39%), Massachusetts (-28%), and Illinois (-25%).

These states, infamous for their high cost of living, lost significantly more millennials than they gained last year.

The list of states millennials were more likely to leave also highlights their sensitivity to home prices; as many as 19% of millennials who left California, and 17% of those who left New York, moved to find cheaper housing — that was the highest percentage of housing cost-driven moves across all states.

Find out how popular your state was in the millennial cross-state migration using our interactive map below.

The Top Cities: Top Millennial Metro Destinations Are in Florida

Much like retirees, many millennials appear to be moving to cities and their metropolitan areas in Florida.

Top States for Millennials

More specifically, metropolitan areas around Tampa, FL (+59%) and Jacksonville, FL (+54%) – had some of the highest net gain of millennial residents in the country.

Slotting in between them is the Las Vegas, NV metro area, which saw 52% more millennials move in than leave last year. The Gen Z magnet Austin, TX was also up there, with 47% more millennials moving in versus out of the Austin area in 2023.

Metro Net Millennial Moves Metro Net Millennial Moves
Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL 95% New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA -56%
Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, NV 56% San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA -51%
Jacksonville, FL 54% Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA -40%
Nashville-Davidson-Franklin, TN 53% Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI -34%
Austin-Round Rock, TX 47% San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA -31%
Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT 40% El Paso, TX -29%
Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ 39% Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI -29%
Oklahoma City, OK 38% Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL -27%
Richmond, VA 38% Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI -26%
Raleigh, NC 37% Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT -25%

Bottom States for Millennials

As per the state-level findings, metro areas in New York and California are losing the most millennials. Both the New York City and San Jose, CA metros had over 50% more millennials leave than move in.

Curiously, both Florida and Texas featured metros on both sides of the scale. While millennials may be flocking to metros around Tampa, FL and Austin, TX, it looks like they’re moving out of El Paso, TX and Miami, FL metros.

Check out all the metros with enough move data to paint the picture in our interactive map below.


Will Millennials Move Again?

We enter 2024 with a relatively positive outlook on the economy, the real estate market, and jobs. That would suggest that if you correlate millennial migration to economic trends, as we’ve done at great length in this study, you would have to predict millennial moving could rise again soon. And for such a frequently disenfranchised generation, they can use all the good news they can get.


Sources and Methodology

All data on moves, their origins, destinations, and reasons behind them was taken from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey and its Annual Social and Economic Supplements, as available via IPUMS. All estimates and percentages are based on moves within the United States.
For this study, we adapted the definition of generations from Beresford Research which defined them based on their age in 2023 as follows:
  • Gen Z: 18* – 26
  • Millennials (Gen Y): 27 – 42
  • Gen X: 43 – 58
  • Baby Boomers: 59 – 77
Technically, Gen Z includes anyone from age 11, but our analysis only included moves made by adults.
Net gain and loss for states and metropolitan areas was calculated as follows:
  • # of people moving into the state or city, to
  • the # of people moving out of the state or city,
  • expressed as a percentage (%)

Illustrations by Maddy Vian

Advice for Movers: What I Did To Land my Biggest Tips

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At the end of every moving job, as we’re saying goodbye to the customer and shaking their hand, we’re all thinking about the same thing.

Our tip. And whether or not one is coming.

Tips are a pretty hot topic nowadays, but early on in my moving career, I learned not to expect a tip. I always hoped for one, but no matter how much we work our tails off, or how good a job we do, it’s all up to the customer in the end. 

But it’s not completely out of our control. If we keep in mind a few simple ideas, we can really increase the chance the customer will leave you a well-earned tip.

It’s About Expectations

a couple watches two movers unload a moving truck

Most customers have a bar they anticipate all service companies to clear, which includes movers. They expect us to show up on time, know what we’re doing, take care of their things, and act professionally. They might also expect movers to be in uniform, or at least in matching company t-shirts. 

But this is just the baseline. If we can really knock their socks off and exceed their expectations, they’ll be more likely to tip above and beyond. The unfortunate thing is, we can’t control or predict when we are going to be able to wow our customers like this. Remember, the customer already expects us to do all the things we do every day. To genuinely impress your customer, to do the unexpected, you need an opportunity.

That chance may not always show up in the way you think it would, either. Here are a few stories that show some of what you can do to notice those opportunities and take advantage of them to land the kind of tip you’re looking for.

Making Difficult Decisions About Employees

two movers discuss the job

You might think that gritting your teeth through a job when you have an employee acting unprofessional. After all, you’ll be down a member if you send them back, and the job will take longer. You also might be worried the customer might see you and your company in a bad light, but addressing bad behavior before it gets out of hand will actually improve their opinion in the long run.

For example, I once had a worker whose nickname was Train, as in freight train. And on a Saturday in mid-June, with business heating up right along with the weather, we had a trainwreck.

I don’t know what his deal was that day. He wouldn’t tell me, even when I pulled him aside, out of earshot of the customer and the rest of the crew. Right from the start he had been complaining about the truck, the equipment, and the long carry from the front door to the street because we couldn’t get in the driveway. The other guys on the crew were being “slow and stupid.” The customer “didn’t know (bleep) about packing boxes.” And with the customer standing right there.

So I told him he was done for the day.

 

“Customers, on the other hand, don’t know about the ins and outs of how to pack or move. If you see the opportunity to pass along your knowledge and make their moving experience a little better, it’s probably a good idea to speak up.”

 

I was honest with the customer. I told her that I was sorry for his behavior and that Train, up to that had to that point, been a good, promising mover. Then I told her that I’d made the decision to send him home. This of course meant the job was going to take a little longer. I assured her we’d get the job done, and if we went over the estimate for the move I’d cover it.

The other workers were fine not having Train around. They were actually energized by him suddenly being gone. They did a bang-up job, and we finished in less than an hour over the estimated time, which with one less man meant the final tally was actually under the estimate.

As we were finishing up the paperwork I apologized again for Train, but she said she appreciated how the guys and I handled everything and gave us each an eye-popping tip. 

Be Honest When You Mess Up

a customer talks to a mover about a broken item

While you should always take precautions and follow safety guidelines, accidents do happen, no matter what. And when they do, it’s best to handle them openly and honestly.

Once, we were unloading a customer’s belongings on one of those weird winter days when the weather couldn’t decide what to do. It would be snowing, then sleeting, then raining, then snowing again, with the ground covered with a wet, slippery mix of all of it.

We were about halfway through when two of the crew were carrying a tall, fairly heavy bookcase up the front walk. The guy in the back slipped on the wet slate, and the bottom end of the bookcase slipped out of his hands. It hit the slate with a thud and a crack as a piece of the wooden base split clean off the back bottom corner.

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It might be tempting to write something like this off as damage done in transit, especially because the customer had moved from out of state, so their stuff had traveled a long distance.

Instead, not only did I tell the customer what had happened. I showed her the piece of wood that had broken off. Then I told her she could opt to file a claim, and what might happen from there if she did. 

The weather never let up, but the rest of the unloading went well. And In the end, the customer tipped us very nicely. She made it a point to express her thanks again for telling her about the bookcase and, more importantly, how to get the situation taken care of. 

Use Your Moving Know-How

a mover talks to a customer about how to pack various fragile items on a table

After all the moves you and your workers have done, you get a sense of the best practices and how things should go. Customers, on the other hand, don’t know about the ins and outs of how to pack or move. If you see the opportunity to pass along your knowledge and make their moving experience a little better, it’s probably a good idea to speak up.

Early on during a big move-out, I found a box that had no tape on it; The flaps were just folded into each other. Apparently, the customer had run out of tape. On top of that, several other boxes felt half-empty when I picked them up, and one box from the kitchen started clinking when I moved it.

It was all a disaster in the making. It also would have been 100% the customer’s responsibility if anything ended up broken. And stuff was definitely going to break.

 

“…[W]e can’t control or predict when we are going to be able to wow our customers like this. Remember, the customer already expects us to do all the things we do every day…[and] to do the unexpected, you need an opportunity.”

 

The problem was, I couldn’t exactly re-pack the boxes myself. PBO, as you probably know, stands for Packed By Owner. It’s what we write on the inventory sheet for any box the owner has packed themselves. If we don’t write PBO, the customer can claim that we packed it, meaning we are responsible for his poorly-packed glasses and cups which are now in a million pieces.

Writing PBO means the customer is responsible for that box and all its contents, from beginning to end. It’s a legal term that protects us from liability for the customer’s negligence or inability, and it comes with very precise implications.

When my guys were taking a quick mid-morning break I explained all of this to the customer, including the part about my not being able to actually (or officially) pack anything without charging him for it. I could, however, give him a half-used roll of tape from the truck and give him some up-close advice on how to pack his boxes securely. 

In the end, the customer was happy and still entirely responsible for his boxes. I made sure he was absolutely clear on what PBO meant, just to be sure. And then he slipped me a fifty.


Ultimately, it is up to the customers how much they tip — or even if they tip at all. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t always maintain a good, professional attitude or stop looking out for ways to go above and beyond. 

As these stories have shown, sometimes problems can become opportunities to really make your crew and business shine. Customers will appreciate it, and it will definitely increase your chances of getting a little extra thank you in the form of a tip at the end of the job. Good luck!

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

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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.


an illustration of a colorful cocktail, but the ice cubes are depicted as moving boxesBucking 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.

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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, CAFolks 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.

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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

The Facts (and Myths) About Safely Transporting Your Flat Screen TV

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My friend Arnie is the kind of person who does everything full-tilt. So it was no surprise when he told me he was getting a massive new flatscreen TV for his Super Bowl party. But there was a problem. He had no idea how he was going to get that beast all the way home from the store in one piece.

“Can I lay it down flat in my truck?” he asked. “Or is the liquid plasma stuff inside the screen gonna get all messed up and totally destroy my new baby?”

If you’re planning on getting a new flatscreen TV during all the great Black Friday deals, you might be wondering the same. It’s a question I get all the time. The short answer? “No, you can’t lay it down. And no, the plasma won’t mess up your TV.” 

The long answer is below, along with some other tips about getting your new TV home in one piece.


Transporting Flat Screens: Opinions vs. Facts

a man looks at different types of TVs in a store

Here are a few common opinions I found about moving a flatscreen TV, from typically credible places:

  • “Never lay a TV flat when transporting it. I speak from experience.” (avforums)
  • “There’s no real issue with transporting LCD’s laying down. They don’t have a pane of glass like plasmas do.” (MacForums)
  • “Manufacturers recommend storing the TV upright, rather than flat or on its side (Techwalla)

While there’s definitely an agreement that transporting flatscreen TVs horizontally can lead to damage, there’s some anecdotal advice that says this only applies to certain types of televisions. But is that really true?

First, let’s look at the two basic types of flat screens.

  1. Plasma screens consist of a double layer of glass holding millions of tiny cells containing microscopic fluorescent ‘lamps’ that produce an image. It’s a similar sort of technology that light bulbs use. Older models of flat screens are more likely to be this plasma type.
  2. LCD (liquid crystal display) screens contain millions of pixels, made of sub-pixels that are like windows with shades that let in different amounts of red, green, or blue light. These produce light in varying percentages to form the picture we see.

(Note: A third type, the LED (light-emitting diode) display, is basically an LCD screen, but with LED backlighting.)

If you want to read up on some finer points between TV types, here’s a handy guide.

 

“Whether you’re picking up a used flat screen TV or buying one new, be sure to set it vertically in your vehicle, right side up, with sufficient padding on all sides to keep it firmly and safely in place.”

 

So, despite what my pal Arnie was afraid of, there’s nothing inside either type of TV that’s going to get ruined, or settle at the bottom of your screen. As long as it remains properly vertical, your TV will be just fine no matter how many years it stands on your table, hangs on your wall, or sits in the moving truck if you’re moving long distance.

But, when it comes to keeping your flat screen safe, it doesn’t really matter which type it is. Both are susceptible to damage if transported or stored improperly. 

But why is it bad to lay a flatscreen TV down flat? a broken tv that's cracked down the center

Because flatscreen TVs are designed to sit upright. More specifically, your TV is constructed to fully support that screen when it is vertical, but not at all when it’s horizontal. If you lay your TV down, the absence of support in the middle of the screen can cause cracking or distortion around the edges if left that way over time. 

It’s fine to lay your TV down temporarily — like to attach accessories or clean it — but if you drive down the road with your TV laid flat you’re risking serious damage. A few bumps and jolts are all it takes for that screen to start sagging in the middle and cracking or warping under its own weight. 

This is why glass-delivery trucks have those vertical racks on the sides, and why we movers always load mirrors and picture frames vertically.

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Transport your flatscreen TV the right way

Whether you’re picking up a used flatscreen TV or buying one new, be sure to set it vertically in your vehicle, right side up, with sufficient padding on all sides to keep it firmly and safely in place.

If you are buying a used flat screen from someone who doesn’t have the original packaging anymore, take the time to protect it properly. A few thick blankets might work in a pinch, but if you can, packing your TV like it’s a mirror applies just as well.

Your TV, your wallet, and all your friends at your Super Bowl party will be glad you did.

How To Furnish a Vacation Home

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Owning a rental property can be a great way to earn passive income and grow your wealth. But before you start interviewing potential tenants, you have to transform it from a cold, empty space into a welcoming, relaxing oasis that a person would actually want to rent. That means furnishing it

You have to consider the cost of filling a second home with sofas, beds, end tables, coffee makers, and any other items that make a home nice to live in. And then there’s the major task of getting all that furniture moved inside and arranged just right.

But don’t fret too much! With some proper planning, you can turn your empty vacation home into a comfortable destination that gets rented out consistently — and at the price point you want

How Much Money Does It Cost To Furnish A Vacation Home? 

a woman looks at the price of an olive green couch

The level of furnishing you do will depend on your budget. Awning.com estimates that the cost of furnishing a rental property can range from as low as $1,000-$2,000 for a smaller property to $50,000 or more for a luxurious vacation rental

Sticking to the low end of that budget would require relying on secondhand and refurbished items. It also assumes that you don’t need to do any renovations. In this situation, you could opt for a few key pieces, such as beds, sofas, and a dining room set, which would be easier on your wallet. However, you want to ensure that your tenants are comfortable and have everything they need, which will encourage them to stay longer and come back again. And that’s going to require a larger investment. 

 

“Steer clear of delicate fabrics like linen and silk. Vacation rentals often see a higher turnover of occupants than traditional homes. Hence, furniture should be durable and able to withstand wear and tear.”

 

A mid-tier budget would be around $20,000-$30,000, which ensures you are able to get everything you need for your renters to feel comfortable and cozy. You don’t need to make a media room that’s a miniature replica of a movie theater, but paying for paintings and decorations, pillows, chairs for a backyard/porch, and cooking implements goes a long way toward your renter’s enjoyment of their time spent at your vacation home. 

How To Pick What Types of Furniture To Use

a man adjusts a comfortable dark green chair set at a dining table

Choosing furnishings for a vacation rental involves careful planning to ensure that the space is appealing, functional, and comfortable for your guests.

You should first inventory everything you need. Necessary items include pieces like a comfortable bed with quality bedding, a couch, a dining table and chairs, a coffee table, and nightstands. But also consider extras for comfort and convenience, like a desk for a working space, outdoor furniture for a patio or balcony, or a cozy reading chair.

But just what kind of bed should you get? Here’s how to pick the best types of furniture for a vacation rental, which may differ from how you’d choose to furnish your personal home:

  • Define your target audience: Start by determining who will be renting your vacation property. Will it be families with children, young adults, or perhaps older couples? Knowing your target audience will help guide your decisions on the type and style of furniture you need to purchase. 
  • Choose durable furniture: Steer clear of delicate fabrics like linen and silk. Vacation rentals often see a higher turnover of occupants than traditional homes. Hence, furniture should be durable and able to withstand wear and tear. Look for leather or performance fabrics, as they are easy to clean and maintain.
  • Use neutral tones: Neutral colors tend to appeal to a wide range of people and they can make a space look clean and welcoming. You can add pops of color with accessories like cushions, throws, and artwork.
  • Aim for a functional layout: Make sure the furniture layout makes sense and allows for easy movement around the space. Also, be sure to point chairs and couches at the entertainment center or next to the fireplace. 
  • Provide storage space: Ensure there’s plenty of storage for guests to unpack their belongings. This can be in the form of wardrobes, drawers, or hooks and shelves.
  • Pick a style: Try to choose a consistent style for your vacation rental that matches the location and architecture. Whether it’s rustic, modern, beachy, or traditional, consistency in style can make the property look thoughtfully designed and more appealing.
  • Add in some decorative Items: Art and accessories can add personality and charm to your rental property. Just remember to keep it tasteful and not overly personal. For example, as lovely as your personal collection of figurines might be, your vacation home isn’t the right place to display it. 

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Tips on Transporting Furniture

Once it comes time to get your vacation rental furnished, you’ve now got to decide how you’re going to transport all of those heavy furniture pieces. You have some options, depending on how you’ve decided to furnish the place, so here are some tips to make the process as smooth as possible. 

What if I want to use the furniture I already have?

A man and a woman loading boxes and small furniture items into a van

If you own some furniture that you’d like to move into your rental, the first step is taking an inventory of all the furniture pieces you plan to move. This will help you keep track of everything during the moving process. While you’re inventorying, take the time to clean pieces that need it (wiping dust, removing stains, etc.). That way, everything will be move-in ready.

It’s also a good idea to measure all doorways and hallways in both your current space and vacation rental to ensure that your furniture will fit through without any issues. The last thing you want is to run into fit issues in the middle of the moving process.

Finally, you’ll also want to protect your furniture so that it doesn’t get damaged going from Point A to Point B. For the heaviest pieces, disassembling them and wrapping them in moving blankets or moving pads is the best way to go. 

Hiring a moving company vs. DIY 

movers loading furniture into a truck

You can certainly attempt to move and pack furniture on your own! If you’re moving smaller items or the distance you’re transporting them isn’t too far, you might be able to handle the move yourself with a rented moving truck. 

However, depending on the size and quantity of the furniture, you might want to hire professional movers. Not only do they have the experience, but also the right equipment to move heavy and bulky items safely. 

 

“…the cost of furnishing a rental property can range from as low as $1,000-$2,000 for a smaller property to $50,000 or more for a luxurious vacation rental.”

 

If you’re using a moving company, make sure your furniture is insured during the move. If you’re moving valuable items, you may need to purchase additional coverage.

In short, if you’re moving items that are bulky, fragile, or valuable, consider hiring hourly moving professionals, even if it’s simply for packing and loading/unloading only. You can still use your own transport to save some money. If you’re moving only smaller, less valuable items, then doing it yourself is likely easier on you and your wallet. 

What if I want to buy all new furniture?

If you’ve decided to buy new furniture for your vacation home, you can most likely have it delivered directly to the new address by the retailer. Some furniture stores also offer assembly services, which can be very convenient, but do come at an extra cost. You’ll need to decide if saving some of your own time and effort is worth the added expense.

How To Take Care of Your Furnished Vacation Home

a woman vacuums a rug in a furnished room

Here’s how you can ensure the furniture you invested in lasts a long time and stays looking new:

  • Regular cleaning: Schedule regular cleaning sessions for all furnishings, and make sure to upkeep all areas of the home. Vacuum upholstery and carpets, dust surfaces, and clean stains promptly. Double-check the appropriate cleaning products and methods for different materials, which will help prevent damage.
  • Use furniture covers: Consider using removable and washable covers for sofas and chairs to protect against spills and stains, especially if your property allows pets or if you have tenants with young children. 
  • Enforce tenant responsibilities: Clearly outline the tenant’s responsibilities for maintaining the furnishings in the rental agreement. This should include routine cleaning, prompt reporting of any damages or issues, and whether or not they’re allowed to move or adjust the furniture. 
  • Inspect and address issues promptly: Conduct regular inspections of the property, including the furnishings, to identify any damages, signs of wear, or pests such as bedbugs. Take care of any problems right away to prevent them from worsening.
  • Use furniture pads: Attach furniture pads to the bottom of chair and table legs to keep them from scratching the floor.
  • Avoid direct sunlight: Position furniture away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and damage.
  • Keep humidity levels in check: If necessary, use a dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels, which stops mold and mildew growth.

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The Bottom Line

If you’re going to invest in owning and managing a rental property, you should ensure you create the most inviting space possible. That doesn’t mean you need to blow your budget on designer furniture, but you should allocate a good chunk of cash to furnishing your rental in a way that complements the space and provides a place that people will want to rent over and over.

Getting your furnishings in the door is the toughest part, so take your time prepping furniture to be moved. Invest in the right materials, and spend some time comparing quotes from qualified movers, if necessary. Once you have your space set up the way you want it, it’s all about maintenance going forward.

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

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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.


natural disaster movesDisplaced 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?

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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

an illustration of someone taping a box. In the corner it's labeled fragileAs 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?

an illustration of white plates and cups being wrapped in brown packing paper. A currently empty cardboard box sits nearbyAmong 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%.

an illustration of a canvas wrapped in bubble wrap. it's stood on top of other packed boxes. 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%).

an illustration of boxes being moved with a dollyOne 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.)

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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

2023 Study: The Shocking Rise of Eviction- and Foreclosure-Related Moves

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Key Findings

  • Over 200,000 Americans had to move due to eviction or foreclosure in 2022 
  • The number of eviction/foreclosure-related moves rose 56% from 2021 to 2022
  • California (+411%), Florida (+187%) and Massachusetts (+105%) saw the highest increase in moves following evictions and foreclosures 
  • Single parents (43%) and single mothers (79%) were more likely to move due to eviction or foreclosure than their married or childless counterparts
  • Black (+23%) and Hispanic (+14%) people were more likely to be among those forced to move after losing their home compared to white Americans
  • One in six (16%) of renters report being “very likely” to get evicted in the next two months in 2023  

One of the most striking and worrying findings from our latest migration report was that last year, the number of Americans who moved due to “foreclosure or eviction” was 56% higher than the year prior.

To better understand this trend, we delved into these worrying figures to see who has been the most affected, as well as to highlight where in the United States the number of moves resulting from evictions and foreclosures is rising most rapidly.

evictionsEviction- and Foreclosure-related Moves on the Rise

Unfortunately and unsurprisingly, a big reason for this jump in evictions and foreclosures was due to the fact that America’s homeownership and homelessness problems are getting worse.

These numbers were made worse in large part due to rising inflation, as well as federal rent assistance running out. These factors caused foreclosures and evictions to spike in 2022, which left thousands of Americans in need of a new home they can afford. (More on this below.)

How many foreclosures were there in 2022?

Based on data from ATTOM, a private real-estate data agency, there were 324,237 foreclosures in the U.S. in 2022.

(It’s worth noting that while this is more than double (+115%) the number of foreclosures in 2021, that figure is still lower than pre-pandemic levels.)

How many evictions were there in 2022?

While foreclosure statistics are more readily available, hard data on evictions is notoriously sparse due to being recorded inconsistently, often in hand-written form, or not recorded at all.

 

“While a few cities (such as Los Angeles) extended eviction moratoriums through to 2023, for the most part, all those protections are now gone in virtually all U.S. states.” 

 

According to the data from Eviction Lab, an eviction data research agency out of Princeton University, eviction filings saw an 81% uptick in 2022. (However, that stat only covers 32 cities across the ten states they are currently able to track.)

How have these trends affected moving within the US?

While the total number of eviction/foreclosure-related moves is lower than it was in the mid-2010s (it’s been falling steadily since 2017), that all changed dramatically last year.

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that as many as 204,000 Americans were forced to move in 2022 after being evicted or having had their property foreclosed — which resulted in a rate increase of 56% — the highest since the pandemic started. 

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Why Foreclosures and Evictions are On the Rise: End of Federal Protections and High Inflation

If eviction- and foreclosure-cited moves jumped 56%, then it follows that the growth in the number of evictions and foreclosures must have also spiked significantly … right?

 

“Black (+23%) and Hispanic (14%) people are much more susceptible to being evicted or losing their homes to foreclosure than their white counterparts.”

 

But according to some experts, they didn’t. Statistically, both evictions and foreclosures were actually artificially reported as “low” in the preceding years of 2020 and 2021, because would-be eviction and foreclosure moves were uniquely held at bay by pandemic-related protections instated by the U.S. government for both homeowners and renters, at both the federal and state levels. With those protections now fading away, that rate couldn’t sustain itself.

On top of that, people had to simultaneously deal with historically high inflation and mortgage interest rates, making their financial situation even more precarious. 

What were the pandemic-era protections for renters and homeowners?

As part of the legislative pandemic response in the United States, the CARES Act provided new foreclosure moratoriums and mortgage forbearance options for homeowners at the federal level.

Meanwhile, renters received help in the form of rental assistance and a moratorium on all evictions. But most of these protections ran out in the middle of 2021, just as America was economically moving past the pandemic.

While a few cities (such as Los Angeles) extended eviction moratoriums through to 2023, for the most part, all those protections are now gone in virtually all U.S. states. 

The States Where Eviction and Foreclosure Moves are Spiking Most

Figures from the U.S. government’s Current Population Survey suggest California is the state where the number of moves forced by eviction and foreclosure jumped most significantly.

Another state experiencing a drastic rise in the number of foreclosure- and eviction-related moves was Florida. In the Sunshine State, the year-over-year growth rate of such moves was up 187% in 2022.

Massachusetts is the third and final state where eviction/foreclosure moves doubled year over year, rising by as much as 105% in 2022, compared to the year before.

Unfortunately, eviction-only data does not exist at neither the state nor federal level, making it next to impossible to make city-level comparisons. However, it’s safe to say that states that rank high on foreclosure-related graphs may also be unfortunate candidates for eviction-related ramifications.

 

“The U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey found that in February 2023, 16% of renters said they were likely to be evicted within two months.”

 

People of Color and Single Parents: Demographics of Eviction and Foreclosure Movers

Reflecting the demographics of eviction movers, it’s people of color and single parents who are much more likely to report being at risk for eviction in early 2023.

Single parents are 43% more likely to be among those moving due to eviction and foreclosure than those married or those without children in the household. For single mothers, the over-representation rate sits at 80% more likely to be evicted and foreclosed on.

As frequently reported, single parents and especially single mothers were much more likely to drop out of the labor force to take care of children during the pandemic. They were also much more reliant on COVID-related protections from the government, without which many now struggle to afford their home.

Consistent with findings of previous studies, Black (+23%) and Hispanic (14%) people are much more susceptible to being evicted or losing their homes to foreclosure than their white counterparts.

Age-wise, members of Generation X (+33%) are most over-represented among those who had to move after losing their homes. Interestingly, millennials were 16% less likely to be among eviction and foreclosure movers in 2022.

Renting on the Brink: Risk of Eviction is Rising in 2023

Detailed statistics on the number of Americans getting evicted or losing their home to repossession may not exist, but we do have a good indication of how many are on the brink of losing their homes.

The U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey found that in February 2023, 16% of renters said they were likely to be evicted within two months. About 4% of those who own their home reported being likely to have their home repossessed.

In volume, that’s 1.3 million renters and 175,000 homeowner households that may have to relocate due to being unable to keep up with rent or mortgage payments.

While the share of homeowners grappling with the risk of foreclosure is at a one-year low, the share of renters falling further and further behind in rent arrears is at a 5-month high.


Sources and Methodology
The number of eviction- and foreclosure-related moves over time, by state, and by demographic was collated from the Annual Social and Economic Supplements of the Current Population Survey, carried out by the U.S. Census Bureau and available via IPUMS.
Data on the risk of eviction and foreclosure over time and in February 2023 was taken from Household Pulse Survey, carried out by the U.S. Census Bureau to produce data on the social and economic effects of coronavirus and other emergent issues on American households.
Singular stats on evictions and foreclosures were taken from Princeton University Eviction Lab and ATTOM respectively. 
Illustrations by Alice Mollon

The 8 Best Movers in Los Angeles According to Real Customers

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Are you about to move to the L.A. area? Or maybe you’re leaving the City of Angels for new adventures? In either case, I understand how overwhelming the process of packing up and shipping out can be.

As someone who spent years working in moving and storage, I know that who you choose to help you with your move can make all the difference. Unfortunately, it can be hard to know if you’re picking the right Los Angeles moving company.

So without further ado, I give you this curated list of HireAHelper’s top Los Angeles movers (as of Spring 2023). This list is based on real customer reviews. You’ll find companies of all sizes, from well-recognized names to mom-and-pop shops, each with its own strengths and personality.

The 2023 8 Best Los Angeles Movers

Rigo’s Moving & Storage, Inc.

rigo's moving

Price: $113/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 4.9/5 stars (1,160 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Movers with a truck
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Ability to stay at least two hours over the prebooked time
  • Same-day requests (w/ 20% charge increase)
Note: No refund for unused time.

Why I Love Them

Rigo's moving
Rigo’s Moving & Storage

Rigo’s is the #1 rated mover on this list and for a reason: they have completed more jobs on HireAHelper than any other moving company. They have a robust FAQs section, which displays their commitment to both customers and employees, and I appreciate that they transparently explain what to expect before and on moving day — this extra touch may seem small, but it speaks to their thoughtfulness and service standards.

What Real Customers Said:

Treating customer valuables like their own: Santiago & Benito are a great team. More attention to detail than I expected. Handled my property as if it was their own. If you’re hiring Rigos ask for these two amazing men.

Satisfaction from beginning to end: Fantastic work! Friendly, communicative, efficient, and ready to tackle the job, which was unloading a 16-foot moving truck into a two-bedroom apartment up a flight of stairs. Appreciated the confirmation call beforehand and all their heavy lifting.”


BC Moving Labor

bc moving labor logo

Price: $140/hour for two movers (after 2 hour minimum)

Reviews: 5 out of 5 stars (529 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Refund up to one unused hour over their minimum
  • Ability to stay at least one hour over the prebooked time
  • Same-day requests (w/ 20% charge increase)
bc moving labor
BC Moving Labor

Why I Love Them

Having opened its doors in 2016, BC Moving Labor is somehow “new” to the scene compared to others on this list, which goes to show how much valuable experience exists in the LA area. BC says they’re especially proud that they are fully family-owned and operated, which is reflected in their reviews: honesty, care, trustworthiness, professionalism, and hard work. (5 out of 5 stars after over 500 reviews is crazy!)

What Real Customers Said:

Expert puzzle solvers: They were amazing! I just stood there scratching my head at how Bernard could fit things together like a perfect puzzle. They got all my stuff into one large POD!! It didn’t look possible to me. I would highly recommend.”

Pro PODS packers: “These guys are awesome! I’ve dealt with a lot of movers and they were the best yet. Really smart with their packing of my pod, super nice and hardworking. They definitely surpassed my expectations and I would recommend them to anyone. Believe all the good reviews!!”


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Excellent Movers

excellent movers logo

Price: $125/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 4.9/5 stars (484 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Ability to stay at least one hour over the prebooked time
  • Same-day requests (w/ 15% charge increase)
Note: No refund for unused time.

Why I Love Them

While Excellent Movers provides no-frills, standard moving services, I appreciate their call out that no job is too small, which is a relief to all you apartment-dwellers out there. Even if you just need professional assistance getting a new sofa into your office, unloading heavy boxes at a storage unit, or unpacking for an event, Excellent Movers is happy to help. 

What Real Customers Said:

Challenge accepted and accomplished: Daniel was great to work with! He communicated very well, was on time and he and his workers did an excellent job. They worked very hard to get our ABF trailer filled, even though it was a challenging load. I would definitely recommend them and I would use them again.”

Stress-relieving rockstars: Thank you so much to Daniel and his crew! Moving is always stressful, but I have to say this is definitely the easiest move I’ve ever done. The scheduling process was super simple, Daniel contacted me the next day to confirm, and the day of the move they showed up early and jumped right in. They took great care of everything, and even went above and beyond to find a solution when an item wasn’t going to fit in the stairs or elevator. Will totally be using them in the future! These guys are rockstars, thanks again!”


Patriot One Movers

patriot one movers

Price: $129/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 5 out of 5 stars (654 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Same-day requests at normal rates
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Refund for any unused time over their minimum
  • Ability to stay at least two hours over the prebooked time
patriot one movers
Patriot One Movers

Why I Love Them

With more than 13 years of experience, Patriot One Movers is the only business on this list with all 5-star reviews — a lofty accomplishment that shouldn’t be overlooked. They also hold the longest daily hours from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., which can come in handy for long moving days and urgent communications. Not to mention, they may be able to do a same-day request at normal rates! 

When people review Patriot One’s customer reviews, you often find recurring themes of professionalism, efficiency, and friendliness. 

What Real Customers Said: 

Earning repeat customers: First time working with these guys they were early and came prepared [and] brought tools and their own dolly etc. Worked quickly and efficiently. They were amazing! I’m using them again the following weekend for the second part of my move. 100% would recommend them to anyone.”

Words of praise from a seasoned mover: “This was my 14th move in the last 10 ten years, and Patriot One was THE best movers I’ve had. I was late arriving to my new home, and Frank was very accommodating and understanding of the situation. He was prompt and helpful when arriving the next morning, stayed with our truck because we had to park in a “no-parking zone”; he really put us at ease! The two movers he brought were the NICEST guys. They made sure everything was EXACTLY where I wanted it (even humored me by moving the rug and couch to the perfect spot). I can’t say enough good things about them. I really felt like my things were in great hands and treated with care and respect. You can feel confident with them and quickly check-off an item on your moving to-do list.”


Lucky Movers

lucky movers logo

 Price: $89/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars (774 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Ability to stay at least two hours over the prebooked time
  • Same-day requests (w/ 20% charge increase)
Note: No refund for unused time.
lucky movers los angeles
Lucky Movers in Los Angeles

Why I Love Them

Lucky is the only company on this list that encourages customers to “call, email or text us” after booking a job. This friendly, open communication provides reassurance — especially for customers who are new to moving!

I also enjoyed their personality in their FAQs — from sharing that they enjoy the “workout” aspect of moving, to training their crew members to “pack a (PODS) or truck like playing the Tetris game.” Lucky Movers has a standout voice and seems to have a culture that embraces fun. 

What Real Customers Said: 

Flexible around the holidays: Ivan and Jose at Lucky Movers were awesome! They were patient with us as we had 2 moving date changes, and stuck with us on our Christmas Eve move. On time, careful with our belongings, polite, efficient, they were the whole package! We can definitely recommend Lucky Movers to anyone who has an upcoming move planned!”

Strong communication: Highly recommend these guys to help you move. They were great about keeping me in the loop as to when they’d arrive at my house, and got there when they said. Were careful with my stuff, and got my POD loaded in no time. Definitely will use them again.”


We the States Moving

We the states logo

Price: $75/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 4.7 out of 5 stars (437 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Same-day requests (w/ 5% charge increase)
Note: No refund for unused time, no guaranteed availability beyond the prebooked time

Why I Love Them

We the States Moving is the most affordable company on this list and the only profile that contains a message in the “About Us” section from the owner, Jon — a thoughtful, personal touch.

Jon brings years of experience in the moving industry and supports a wide range of services, from state-to-state moves, to rearranging furniture in medical offices and spas.

What Real Customers Said:

Professionalism from start to finish: Jon did an incredible job. He figured out a way to pack 2 U-Boxes and we can’t believe he fit everything in there! He was a professional and really knew what he was doing. I would hire him again in a heartbeat. Thank you for the amazing service!!”

Accommodating last-minute arrangements: We the States Moving proved a lifesaver. I was tasked with an impromptu move and needed movers the same day, no scheduling. Well, through Hire A Helper, I found We the States Moving and they answered me promptly. They arrived on time, went right to work, did not slow down, packed and stacked my possessions with great care, and provided me with packing tips for future reference. I am forever grateful for We the States Moving for bailing me out at the last minute. I highly recommend them and would use them again.”


Black Eagle Moving

black eagle moving

Price: $100/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 5 out of 5 stars (151 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Ability to stay at least two hours over the prebooked time
Note: No refund for unused time, no same-day requests.
Black Eagle Movers
Black Eagle Movers

Why I Love Them

Black Eagle has been on the scene for fewer than 10 years, but that’s been plenty of time to back up its service commitment. They make it very clear in their FAQs that the customer’s needs for their move are their first priority. 

Black Eagle also highlights that they have two-valued, highly trained teams of movers, emphasizing their commitment to quality and intimate approach.

What Real Customers Said:

Problem-solving on the spot: They arrived as scheduled and managed to find my apartment in a huge maze of a complex by themselves. I showed them what I had and they made a plan of action that went efficiently. I have a large library and ran out of boxes for books the day before, but they improvised a safe and easy way to get them in the container and for the journey. They also wrapped all of my furniture for protection and used far less space in the container than the last movers I used. Friendly, experienced, and fast. Highly recommend, particularly if you are using a container for the move.”

That magic touch: Enrique and his team have a magical power. They can take your pre-move stress levels and make them disappear! Arrived on time, packed everything beautifully, and seemed to make space in my U-Haul appear out of nowhere. I would highly recommend Black Eagle Movers!”


Thunderhorse Moving

thunderhorse movers

Price: $100/hour for two movers (after 2-hour minimum)

Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars (302 reviews) [as of Spring 2023]

What They Offer

  • Loading and unloading
  • Day labor
  • Movers with a truck
  • Next-day requests at normal rates
  • Ability to stay at least one hour over the prebooked time
  • Same-day requests (w/ 5% charge increase)
Note: No refund for unused time.
Thunderhorse Movers
Thunderhorse Movers

Why I Love Them

Thunderhorse is one of only two companies on this list that offers movers with a truck (Rigo’s is the other). They also call out their piano-packing expertise — undoubtedly a valuable service to musicians.

With long daily hours (8 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week), available trucks, and middle-of-the-road pricing ($100/hr.), Thunderhorse is a well-rounded contender.

What Real Customers Said:

A happy homecoming: I moved here from Oregon and this crew of 3 amazing gentleman got the job done quickly in the worst heat wave. They unloaded a 26 ft U-Haul and a 16 ft. truck in 3 hours!!! They brought my items and boxes to each room we specified. They were polite, communicative, and extremely hardworking. 10/10 service! I would not hesitate to use this company again. I only hope I tipped generously enough for their hard work. I will absolutely recommend them to anyone I know who needs help moving or unloading.”

Going the extra mile: Jorge and team arrived on time and ready to go. They even brought an extra person to help make sure everything would get done as quickly as possible, which I appreciated. They were very fast and worked hard. I would recommend (them)!”


LA Movers for Jobs of All Sizes

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

 

From in-state relocations and long-distance moves to loading trucks and unpacking furniture, HireAHelper’s top Los Angeles movers span a range of services — as well as pricing — so you should have luck finding help with your move no matter what your budget and needs are. 

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