Arizona’s Population Boom: Where Are New Residents Coming From?
Arizona continues to be a magnet for new residents, solidifying its position as one of the nation’s fastest-growing states. While the 48th state boasts a rich history, its recent surge in population is reshaping its demographics and driving economic expansion. New data reveals the key states and cities fueling this growth, offering insights into the motivations behind the westward migration.
The Valley Attracts a Wave of Newcomers
The Phoenix metropolitan area, often referred to as the Valley, is a primary destination for those relocating within the United States. A recent U-Haul midyear migration trends report for 2025, analyzing one-way rentals between January and July, confirms the region’s popularity. The study indicates that the Valley consistently ranks among the top choices for individuals seeking a new home.
Beyond California: A Diverse Range of Origin States
While California has long been recognized as a major source of Arizona’s population growth, the influx is becoming increasingly diverse. According to U-Haul’s analysis, Texas and Colorado are also significant contributors to the state’s expanding population. Other states within a day’s drive of the Valley are gaining prominence as origin points, including Nevada, Washington, and Utah.
Here are the top 10 states sending new residents to metro Phoenix, as identified by U-Haul:
- California
- Texas
- Colorado
- Nevada
- Washington
- Utah
- New Mexico
- Oregon
- Illinois
- Florida
Major Cities Driving the Migration
Looking at specific metropolitan areas, a clear pattern emerges. Los Angeles leads the list of cities sending residents to Phoenix, followed by Las Vegas, Denver, Salt Lake City, and Seattle. This suggests a strong pull from major Western cities, potentially driven by factors such as cost of living, job opportunities, and lifestyle preferences.
The top 5 U.S. cities outside of Arizona contributing to Phoenix’s growth, according to U-Haul, are:
- Los Angeles
- Las Vegas
- Denver
- Salt Lake City
- Seattle
Intra-State Migration Fuels Growth
The population boom isn’t solely driven by out-of-state movers. Phoenix is also experiencing significant growth from within Arizona itself. Tucson, Prescott, Flagstaff, Lake Havasu City, and Yuma are all contributing to the influx of residents into the state’s largest city. This intra-state movement underscores the Valley’s appeal to those already living in Arizona.
The continued influx of new residents signals a dynamic period for Arizona, presenting both opportunities and challenges as the state adapts to its evolving demographic landscape.
