In the latest United Van Lines 48th Annual National Movers Study, Wilmington, North Carolina, has once again claimed the title as the top inbound Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) for 2024.
- With an impressive 83% of shipments being inbound compared to just 17% outbound, this coastal city has proven its allure to a significant number of Americans.
Five-Year Run: This marks the third time in the last five years that Wilmington has topped the list, previously achieving this status in 2020 and 2022. Notably, Wilmington has maintained a consistent presence in the top three, dropping to third place in 2021 and securing second place in 2023.
- This remarkable run underscores Wilmington’s increasing popularity among those looking to relocate.
Popular Region: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, which was number one in 2023, took the second spot in 2024 with 80% of its shipments being inbound. Following closely, Springfield, Missouri, rose to secure the third position, with Flagstaff, Arizona, and Brownsville, Texas, rounding out the top five.
- Interestingly, Myrtle Beach has also been a consistent contender, achieving three top-four finishes in the last five years, making it the only other city to match Wilmington’s consistency in popularity.
Changes in 24: The study, released by United Van Lines, indicates a shift in migration patterns post-pandemic. While there has been a general trend of Americans choosing to stay put, those who do decide to move are motivated by factors such as affordability and the desire to be closer to family, rather than just geographical appeal.
- This reflects a broader societal shift towards valuing life quality over location prestige.
State Stats: Despite Wilmington topping the list, North Carolina as a state was the fifth most inbound in 2024, notes the study, indicating that while Wilmington is a magnet, the state itself continues to attract new residents. Leading the national charts for inbound moves was West Virginia, followed by Delaware, South Carolina, and Washington, D.C.
Bottom Line: As popular as we all thought Wilmington has been these past five years it turns out it is even more popular than that.