S
outh Carolina has taken the top spot as the most popular destination for Americans looking to start fresh, according to a recent study from U-Haul. The Palmetto State surpassed Texas, which had held the number one position for three years, and now ranks second.

    The study analyzed over 2.5 million one-way U-Haul trips in 2024 and found that Americans are increasingly heading south. North Carolina, Florida, and Tennessee rounded out the top five. Charleston's charm, beaches, and low cost of living have made it a magnet for retirees and young families alike.

    Myrtle Beach has seen explosive growth, with a 23% increase in residents over 65 from 2020 to 2023, making it the nation's fastest-growing population of seniors. The beachfront hotspot is famous for its 60-mile stretch of sand and now boasts an attractive quality of life that draws people from all over.

    In contrast, states like California, New York, Illinois, Louisiana, and South Dakota are experiencing significant outmigration due to high costs, lack of jobs, and extreme weather. On the other hand, states like Oklahoma, Indiana, and Maine have seen a surge in popularity, climbing 30, 19, and 18 spots respectively.

    The migration patterns align with broader studies showing Americans favor cheaper living, lower taxes, and better housing options. As U-Haul's international president John "J.T." Taylor notes, the trend of moving to the Southeast and Southwest continues as families weigh factors like cost of living, job opportunities, and quality of life when deciding where to relocate.