Moving to a new home is one of life’s biggest decisions, and the reasons behind a move can vary widely from person to person. A recent National Association of Realtors® (NAR) survey sheds light on the top motivations for moving, how remote work is influencing relocation choices, and where people are going when they decide to pack up and start fresh.
Whether you're considering a move for lifestyle reasons, financial benefits, or career flexibility, understanding these trends can help you make informed decisions about when, where, and why to buy your next home.
1. The Top Reasons People Move
While moving is often prompted by life changes or financial factors, the survey revealed that personal connections and affordability are among the biggest motivators.
Why Do People Move?
📍 Closer to family & friends – 30%
💰 More home for their money – 21%
🏡 Lower taxes – 16%
🛡️ Safer area – 16%
What This Means for Buyers:
- People are prioritizing lifestyle and community—being near family and friends is now a bigger factor than cost alone.
- Affordability still plays a key role, with many moving to lower-cost-of-living areas to maximize their home investment.
- Lower taxes and safer areas continue to influence buying decisions, particularly for retirees and families.
2. How Remote Work is Changing Where People Live
One of the most significant shifts in the real estate market has been the rise of remote work, allowing buyers to relocate with greater freedom.
💻 43% of buyers worked remotely and were not influenced by job location
🏢 37% worked partly in-office and were influenced by job location
🏠 2% moved due to a return-to-office requirement
What This Means for Buyers:
- More people are choosing where to live based on lifestyle, not just jobs. If you work remotely, you may have more options than ever before.
- Hybrid work is still a factor—buyers with partial in-office requirements are often choosing homes within commutable distances.
- Return-to-office policies are influencing only a small percentage of moves but may still affect specific markets.
3. Where Are People Moving?
Nearly half of all buyers moved to the South, a trend driven by lower taxes, affordable housing, and a warmer climate.
Relocation Trends by Region:
🌴 South – 46%
🌅 West – 25%
🌾 Midwest – 18%
🏙️ Northeast – 11%
What This Means for Buyers:
- The South continues to dominate in popularity, with states like Florida, Texas, and the Carolinas attracting buyers looking for affordability and better weather.
- The West remains a strong contender, particularly in states with job growth and outdoor lifestyle appeal, like Arizona, Colorado, and Utah.
- The Midwest and Northeast see fewer relocations, but buyers moving there may find less competition and better pricing opportunities.
4. How Far Are People Moving?
While some buyers make cross-country moves, most people don’t go too far when relocating.
🚚 36% moved to a different state
🏠 21% moved within the same state but to a different area
🏙️ 21% moved within the same area but to a different city
📍 21% moved within the same city
🌎 1% moved outside the U.S.
What This Means for Buyers:
- Local moves remain common, with people often upgrading or downsizing within their current metro area.
- State-to-state migration is rising, especially for those seeking tax benefits, lower housing costs, or a better climate.
- International moves are rare, but there are still opportunities for buyers looking for overseas properties or investment homes.
5. What Matters Most in Choosing a Home?
When it comes to selecting the right home, buyers aren’t just looking at square footage and finishes—they’re considering outdoor space, noise levels, and walkability.
🏡 Outdoor space (yard, patio, deck, etc.) – 42%
🌳 Quieter area – 24%
🚶 Walkability & neighborhood amenities – 19%
🥾 Better access to parks & trails – 8%
What This Means for Buyers:
- Homes with outdoor space are in high demand, especially for families and remote workers.
- Quiet neighborhoods are becoming more desirable, as buyers seek relaxed and peaceful environments.
- Walkability is an important factor, with buyers valuing proximity to shops, dining, and entertainment.
6. Many Buyers Are Returning to Familiar Places
Interestingly, 18% of buyers moved back to an area they had lived in before. This suggests that people often return to familiar communities when making a big life move.
Among repeat buyers:
🏡 74% sold their previous home before buying a new one.
💰 20% kept their previous home as an investment, rental, or vacation property.
What This Means for Buyers:
- If you’re considering a move, reflect on past places you’ve lived—you may find your next home in a familiar location.
- Keeping a previous property as an investment rental can be a smart way to generate passive income while upgrading to a new home.
Final Thoughts: What This Means for You
Every move is unique, but understanding these trends can help you make informed decisions about your next home purchase.
If you’re considering buying or selling, now is a great time to evaluate your priorities:
✔️ Do you want to be closer to family and friends?
✔️ Are you looking for more space, lower taxes, or a quieter neighborhood?
✔️ Does remote work allow you to move somewhere new?
✔️ Is it time to return to a familiar community?
At Guthrie Schofield Group, we specialize in helping buyers and sellers navigate today’s real estate market with expert guidance and personalized service. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, we can help you find the perfect home to fit your needs.
📩 Contact us today to explore your options and start planning your next move!
