Why has South Carolina become number one place for Americans to move to? Know in detail

South Carolina has become the most favored place for Americans. According to a survey, it has topped the list for the most popular state to move to in 2023, measured by the proportion of persons moving in and out of the state. It has become the most popular state mainly because it is 11.5% cheaper than the average state in the US. Besides, healthcare and tech industries are also growing rapidly in many cities in the state, including Columbia, Greenville and Lockhart.

COVID-19 pandemic

It began in 2020 when at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans ditched their in-person jobs and moved away from dense, highly populated cities to more affordable places across the country.


According to Fox News, 22% of Americans left their places and moved to new and less populated ones. In 2023, Americans are still making moves cross-country. MoveBuddha, which analyzes trends and industry insights to help people find moving information and resources, looked at data from January 1 through September 30, 2023, and has come to this conclusion.

North Carolina follows South

South Carolina is followed by North Carolina and Montana as top cities that continue to attract way more moves in than out. Florida and Texas come next and they are liked for relative affordability and milder weather.

According to MoveBuddha analysis, Greenville in South Carolina and Asheville in North Carolina were among the top destinations for Americans in 2023 with the highest inflow-to-outflow ratio. People have moved to this place due to a lower cost of living, a steady climate and better access to outdoor activities.

"South Carolina has it all"

Republican South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster told Fox News Digital, "South Carolina has it all. Our quality of life, rich cultural heritage, abundant natural resources, and thriving economy make South Carolina the ideal place to live, work, and raise a family."

MoveBudda has also predicted that people will continue to leave more expensive areas as the cost of living and inflation become an even greater challenge for Americans. Dense, urban areas have witnessed exodus, and states like California, New Jersey and Connecticut all will see more people move outbound than inbound in 2023.

FAQs:

Why did many people leave big and densely populated areas in the US during COVID-19?
At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, many Americans left their in-person jobs and moved away from dense, highly populated cities to more affordable places across the country.

Why do people move to new places?
People have moved to new places due to a lower cost of living, a steady climate, and better access to outdoor activities.