When planning an interstate moving strategy, consumers are finding that the biggest driving factor is not housing costs or job opportunities, but rather better weather. California has emerged as the third most preferred destination for people planning to relocate across state lines.
According to a recent survey released by real estate brokerage Redfin, Florida is the most preferred destination for respondents planning an interstate move within the next year, at 14%. Texas followed closely at 13%, while California claimed the third spot at 11%.
Weather is the primary motivation for those planning an out-of-state move, with 22% of respondents citing a better climate as the main reason. This represents the highest percentage among 29 choices presented in the survey.
Concerns over natural disasters and climate change risks followed closely at 21%. Safety and crime concerns accounted for 20%, new jobs for 19%, and general living cost savings or living closer to family both registered at 18%. Lower housing prices or rent accounted for 15%.
Redfin commissioned Ipsos in May to conduct a survey of 4,000 domestic consumers, allowing respondents to select multiple reasons for moving.
Yingzhi Wu, an economist at Redfin, explained that for people looking to escape harsh winters, enjoy year-round outdoor activities, or improve their mood through sunlight, weather is a crucial factor in deciding where to relocate.
On the other hand, consumers moving within the same metropolitan area or state cited better homes, neighborhoods, and larger spaces as their primary reasons, with both categories polling at 29%. Only 9% of local movers cited weather as a factor.
