San Diego is becoming a popular choice for those looking to leave their current homes, according to a recent report released by moving and storage company PODS.
While Los Angeles occupies the top position for move-outs for the fourth consecutive year, San Diego’s ranking has slipped to fifth place this year, up from eighth in the previous year.
The report attributes this trend to rising living costs, congested traffic, and inadequate infrastructure that’s been unable to keep pace with California’s growing population.
Notably, California is home to seven cities on PODS’ list of the top 20 regions experiencing the most move-outs, including three in the top 10.
Stockton-Modesto has fallen out of the top 10, now ranking 13th, while Fresno and Bakersfield have returned to the list toward the bottom.
Rich Schwartz, the senior vice president of corporate operations at PODS, explains, “The Northeast and West Coast continue to see a steady increase in people moving out likely due to high costs of living, overcrowding, and spiking insurance premiums, among other factors.”
“As economic uncertainty persists and the housing market remains tight, we anticipate a continued migration toward more affordable and emerging markets throughout the country.”
According to the report, the top 10 regions with the highest number of move-outs this year are:
1. Los Angeles, CA
2. Northern California (San Francisco area)
3. South Florida (Miami area)
4. Long Island, NY (serving parts of NYC)
5. San Diego, CA
6. Central Jersey, NJ
7. Chicago, IL
8. Boston, MA
9. Hudson Valley, NY
10. Denver, CO.
The report also reveals where those leaving are choosing to relocate.
Overall, the southeastern United States attracts a significant number of Americans, thanks to its warm weather and lower living costs.
Trent Brock, senior brand communications manager at PODS, indicates that climate impacts relocation decisions, stating that Florida has historically been a top destination.
However, due to increasing tropical storms and higher insurance rates, fewer individuals are moving to Florida compared to previous years, potentially changing migration patterns.
The cities and regions with the highest number of move-ins for this year include:
1. Myrtle Beach, SC / Wilmington, NC
2. Ocala, FL
3. Greenville-Spartanburg, SC
4. Raleigh, NC
5. Charlotte, NC
6. Dallas Fort-Worth, TX
7. Knoxville, TN
8. Jacksonville, FL
9. Nashville, TN.
In addition to the usual trends for 2025, subtle shifts indicate that states like Georgia, Florida, and Texas are experiencing a decrease in population influx.
In contrast, more people are migrating toward Southern Appalachian states and the Pacific Northwest.
Asheville, NC has dropped out of the top 10 move-in list, likely due to damage from Hurricane Helene in September 2024.
However, the Carolinas still boast the highest presence in PODS’ data, showing resilience despite weather-related challenges.
PODS notes that the data reflects long-distance moves, which comprise 92% of their clientele.
With ongoing economic challenges and shifting demographics, the patterns in relocation could continue to evolve in the coming years.
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