Commercial Real Estate Shifts as Americans Move to New Places

Americans are ​increasingly choosing ​where to live based on family ties and affordability, ⁢rather than job opportunities, a new​ report shows. The annual migration data from United Van Lines reveals a shift⁤ away from the traditional “go‍ west” mentality and booming Sun Belt states like⁣ Florida and Texas, toward smaller markets and a better quality of life.

Oregon topped the list of most popular moving‍ destinations in 2025, marking the first time ​the state has held that position. Six of the top ten inbound states are located in the South and ​South Atlantic regions: West Virginia, ‌South Carolina, North Carolina, Arkansas, ⁤Alabama, and ‌Delaware.

“The data reveals Americans are seeking a different pace of life, and destinations⁣ like Oregon, the Carolinas and​ the south are delivering it,” said Eily Cummings, vice president of corporate communications at united ⁣van Lines.

The trend has implications for commercial real​ estate investors. ‌According to Ryan Severino, chief economist at BGO, a global ​real estate‍ investment firm, the focus should shift toward investments in affordable‌ housing, modest office parks, and middle- to lower-income retail spaces. Even industrial real estate​ needs will change, with increased demand for self-storage solutions to support more ​modest housing options.

interestingly, New Jersey is attracting younger millennials and‍ Gen Z due to its relative affordability compared to New York City,⁣ while ‍simultaneously ​experiencing an outflow of retirees, making it⁣ the top state for‍ outbound⁢ migration.