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noxville, Tennessee, a mid‑size Appalachian city nestled at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains, is poised to eclipse Savannah, Georgia, as the top destination for American movers in 2026. Move Buddha’s analysis of search data from 2019‑2025 projects that for every resident who leaves Knoxville, 1.61 newcomers will arrive, signaling a net influx that could surpass Savannah’s current popularity.

    The study highlights a pronounced shift toward the American South and Southwest, where nearly half of the top 25 cities on movers’ radars are located. Knoxville’s steady rise is matched by a surge in interest for Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Vancouver, Washington, which tied for second place. A five‑year spike in search activity suggests Tulsa may experience a wave of new residents, rivaling Vancouver’s growing appeal as a Portland suburb.

    University‑anchored towns in the South and Southwest dominate the rankings, offering vibrant cultural scenes and robust job markets. Austin, Texas, once a magnet for young professionals, has seen a 40% drop in mover interest since 2019 and is expected to experience a net outflow in 2026. The city’s recent housing boom has shifted the market, creating significant discounts for renters and buyers alike.

    In the Midwest, St. Paul, Minnesota, stands out with a 122% increase in mover interest since 2019— the highest growth nationwide. It outpaces Milwaukee and Chicago, both of which have seen over 40% rises in move‑related searches. St. Paul is anticipated to see a surge in moving activity next year.

    Despite a nearly 28% decline in interest since 2019, New York City remains a perennial draw, with a projected net gain of 1.12 moving vans for every van that leaves in 2026.

    Overall, the data underscore a broader trend: American homeowners are increasingly looking southward, with Appalachian and southwestern cities emerging as the most sought‑after locales for relocation in the coming years.