Nevada’s Migration Boom Cools: State Sees dramatic Drop in Inbound Moves
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Nevada is experiencing a meaningful slowdown in inbound migration, falling from a popular destination during the COVID-19 pandemic to a much less sought-after state in 2024. Data released by moving company U-Haul reveals a dramatic shift in migration patterns, signaling a potential recalibration for the Silver State’s housing market and economy.
From Hotspot to Cooling trend
During the height of the pandemic and the subsequent years, Nevada emerged as a prime destination for those seeking a change of scenery and, frequently enough, more affordable living. However, according to U-Haul’s annual growth index, this trend has reversed course. “Nevada had one of the biggest shifts for state
U-Haul’s mid-year trends report provides insight into where residents are choosing to relocate. Major cities in neighboring states are proving especially attractive. The most popular destinations for those leaving Nevada include:
- Sacramento, California
- San Francisco/San Jose, California
- Los Angeles, California
- Riverside, California
- San Diego, California
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Portland, Oregon
- Seattle, Washington
National Migration Trends: A Shifting Landscape
Nevada’s decline in popularity coincides with broader national migration trends.While the Silver State is seeing fewer inbound moves,other states are experiencing growth. According to U-Haul’s 2024 rankings,the top states to move to are:
- Texas
- Florida
- North Carolina
- south Carolina
- Tennessee
Oklahoma,Indiana,and Maine experienced the largest increases in popularity from 2023 to 2024,while Colorado,Nevada,Wyoming,and New Mexico saw the most significant drops.
California Continues to See outmigration
For the fifth consecutive year, California remains the state with the highest net loss of residents. Massachusetts also holds its position as the 49th most popular state for movers, while New York has reached its lowest growth ranking in a decade. The ten least popular states to move to, according to U-Haul, are:
- California
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Illinois
- Louisiana
- Michigan
- Maryland
- Connecticut
Nevada’s Migration History: A Volatile Pattern
Nevada’s position in the U-Haul Growth Index has fluctuated considerably over the past decade. While the state enjoyed periods of popularity in 2020, 2022, and 2023, it previously ranked among the least desirable states for relocation in 2016 and 2015. Here’s a look at Nevada’s ranking over the past nine years:
- 2024: No. 35
- 2023: No. 11
- 2022: No. 13
- 2021: no. 29
- 2020: No. 8
- 2019: No. 24
- 2018: No.25
- 2017: No.33
- 2016: No. 43
- 2015: No. 41
The recent downturn in Nevada’s migration numbers suggests a potential shift in the factors driving relocation decisions, potentially influenced by changing economic conditions, housing affordability, and lifestyle preferences. The state’s future growth will likely depend on its ability to adapt to these evolving trends.
