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.