realestate

Safe and Affordable Haven Tops Job Market in 2024

The Hottest Place to Live Isn't a Bustling Metro, but a Suburb in the South.

S
ummerville, South Carolina, has emerged as the top job-magnet suburb in the country, according to Move Buddha's analysis of search data from 2024. This hidden gem outpaced competitors with its affordable real estate and robust job market.

    The moving and storage company analyzed data from January to October 2024, revealing that Summerville's job market has grown significantly, with a 4.2% increase in employment from August 2023 to August 2024. The town's population of over 52,000 is expected to continue growing, driven by its appeal as a tech industry hub.

    South Carolina's lowcountry ranks fifth in the US for high-tech industry output, making Summerville an attractive destination for professionals. Despite the influx of new residents, housing prices remain relatively affordable, with an average home price of $380,000 as of September 2024.

    In contrast, Beverly Hills, California, is one of the least affordable job hubs, with an average home price of over $3.5 million and only 1.6% job growth. Move Buddha notes that while remote work trends have contributed to suburban migration, many movers prioritize living near a robust job market as a key factor in their decision.

    As a result, suburbs like Summerville remain popular destinations for those seeking a stable career and comfortable lifestyle. The town's high in-to-out move ratio, with approximately 3.76 people moving in for every one person leaving, further underscores its appeal.

Cityscape photo of a thriving metropolis with a bustling job market.