The Great Migration Shuffle: U.S. Migration Trends of 2021 - Part 2

Aug 16

The dynamics of the U.S. population are ever-evolving. With people constantly on the move, it's vital to understand the trends influencing their decisions. This analysis, building on our Part 1 dive into regional and international shifts, unveils which states are the hotspots for relocation and which ones are facing an exodus.

*Net Domestic Migration to Florida in 2021; an example of a state with high inflows from other states.*

Sunny Days in the Sunbelt

2021 saw a significant portion of America headed south. States in the South and Western U.S. witnessed high net domestic in-migration. What's the charm? The lower living costs, economic surges in cities like Dallas and Atlanta, and the appeal of warmer climes. Notably, Florida, Texas, North Carolina, Arizona, and South Carolina were the top beneficiaries.

However, it's not just about sun and savings. Many states drew people from high-cost metros, escaping the sky-rocketing living expenses of places like New York and California. For instance, Florida, the migration winner of 2021, became a magnet for residents from states with a higher price tag on living.

Heading Out of the West and Northeast

On the flip side, states like California, Washington, New York, and New Jersey faced a concerning outflow of residents. The urge to find opportunity in the Sunbelt, combined with the freedom of remote work post-Covid, saw many leaving behind the busy streets of cities like San Francisco and New York.

*Net Domestic Migration to California in 2021; an example of a state with high outflows to other states.*

Predicting the Migration Maze

With shifting workplace norms and evolving economic landscapes, predicting future migration patterns is more essential than ever. As the tug-of-war between office mandates and remote flexibility continues, it'll be intriguing to see how states like New York or California combat the outflow. Meanwhile, international in-migration, especially to major cities, will play a crucial role in reshaping the demographic fabric of the country.

Summary

Migration isn't just about packing bags and shifting homes. It reflects the socio-economic, professional, and lifestyle preferences of millions. As we gear up for another year, the factors driving these decisions will continue to play a pivotal role in understanding the future of American society.

Want to dig deeper into these trends or see how they impact your region? Fill out the form below, and our team is here to provide insights tailored just for you!

Notes

Data analysis is based on the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 American Community Survey.
Population change of a locality is comprised of two components: migration and natural change. This data analysis exclusively reviews patterns in migration.
Net migration is a concept that looks at how many people moved into a state minus how many moved out.

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