Something’s shifting in the American landscape—and it’s not just tectonic plates. In 2025, people are packing up and heading south, and one small city in South Carolina is stealing the spotlight. According to MoveBuddha’s latest relocation report, Conway, South Carolina has emerged as the most popular domestic destination so far this year. That’s right—this charming town nestled near Myrtle Beach is suddenly the place to be.
But Conway isn’t just a one-off. The entire state of South Carolina is having a moment. With over 22% of inbound search traffic, the Palmetto State is officially the most sought-after relocation destination in the U.S. this year. So what’s driving this migration trend? And why are states like New Jersey, California, and New York seeing more people looking to leave than move in?
Let’s unpack the data—and the moving boxes.
Why Conway, SC Is America’s New Favorite Move-In Spot
Conway isn’t a metropolis. It’s not a tech hub. It doesn’t have skyscrapers or subway systems. But what it does have is Southern charm, affordability, and proximity to the beach—a trifecta that’s proving irresistible to many Americans.
- Cost of living: Compared to major cities, Conway offers lower housing costs, property taxes, and everyday expenses.
- Lifestyle appeal: With its historic downtown, riverwalk, and easy access to Myrtle Beach, Conway blends small-town tranquility with coastal fun.
- Remote work flexibility: As more people work from home, they’re choosing places based on lifestyle, not office proximity.
It’s the kind of place where you can own a home, walk to a local café, and still be 20 minutes from the ocean. For many, that’s the dream.
South Carolina: The State Everyone Wants to Call Home
Conway may be leading the charge, but it’s part of a bigger story. South Carolina is dominating relocation interest in 2025, with more than one in five inbound searches pointing to the state.
Why the surge?
- Tax-friendly policies: South Carolina offers relatively low income and property taxes, making it attractive to retirees and remote workers.
- Climate and geography: Mild winters, lush landscapes, and coastal access make it a year-round destination.
- Growth without chaos: Cities like Greenville, Charleston, and Columbia are growing, but not overwhelmed—offering urban perks without urban stress.
Whether it’s retirees seeking sunshine or millennials escaping high rents, South Carolina is checking a lot of boxes.
Who’s Leaving—and Why?
While South Carolina is rolling out the welcome mat, other states are seeing more outbound interest. New Jersey, California, and New York top the list of places people are looking to leave.
California
Once the golden state of opportunity, California now faces challenges like:
- Sky-high housing costs
- Traffic congestion
- Wildfire risks
- Increasing cost of living
Even with its tech jobs and scenic beauty, many residents are finding it hard to justify staying.
New York
The Empire State, especially NYC, has long been a magnet for ambition. But post-pandemic realities have shifted priorities:
- Remote work reduces the need to live near offices
- Rent remains steep
- Urban fatigue is real
People are trading subway rides for sunshine and space.
New Jersey
Often seen as a commuter state, New Jersey is facing similar pressures:
- High property taxes
- Dense suburban sprawl
- Rising cost of living
For many, the appeal of quieter, cheaper living elsewhere is winning out.
What This Migration Means for the Future
These shifting patterns aren’t just about moving trucks—they reflect deeper changes in how Americans think about home, work, and lifestyle.
- Remote work is redefining geography
- Affordability is trumping prestige
- Quality of life is becoming the top priority
As smaller cities and states like Conway and South Carolina rise in popularity, we may see a more balanced national population distribution. And that could reshape everything from housing markets to political influence.
If you could move anywhere in the U.S. in 2025, which state would you choose?