Phoenix Moving Trends – Why People Are Moving & Where They’re Going

About Phoenix & Its Growth

Phoenix is now the fifth-largest city in the U.S. with over 1.66 million residents—and the metro area holds nearly 4.8 million people. Though growth has slowed slightly, it’s still a major draw for new residents.

Why Are People Moving To Phoenix?

1. Job opportunities & business growth

Phoenix enjoys solid job growth across tech, healthcare, aerospace and more. Its business-friendly environment is pulling in both startups and established firms.

2. Affordable living & sunshine

With median home prices around $416K to $461K, Phoenix remains more affordable than many coastal cities. Buyers are gaining leverage as homesellers now outnumber buyers significantly.

3. Warm weather year-round

People appreciate Phoenix’s long sunny seasons. It’s especially appealing to retirees and remote workers leaving colder or wetter areas.

4. Less extreme natural disasters

Compared with coastal areas prone to hurricanes or severe flooding, Phoenix is considered more stable—and that’s attractive to many.

5. New transit & neighborhood development

Recent expansions in light rail—including the South Central Extension opened June 7, 2025—and ongoing infrastructure improvements are enhancing livability and appeal.

Which States Are People Coming From?

Phoenix draws significant migration from California (especially Los Angeles), Texas, Colorado and Nevada, according to U‑Haul long‑distance moving data in mid‑2025. Many are moving westward into Arizona’s Sun Belt economy.

Why Are Some People Leaving Phoenix?

1. Rising home prices & higher mortgage rates

Although sellers currently dominate listings, high prices and interest rates make ownership tough, particularly for first-time buyers.

2. Strained infrastructure & housing shortage

Suburban zoning limits and lack of multifamily housing have created a shortage, pushing some people to seek areas with more affordable density or regulatory reform.

Where Are Former Phoenix Residents Moving To?

Though Phoenix used to rank among the top “move‑to” cities, it didn’t appear in the 2025 top destinations list any longer—suggesting other regions are now hotter draws.

Popular destination regions include:

• Southeast states—like North Carolina (Raleigh, Charlotte), South Carolina (Myrtle Beach, Greenville-Spartanburg) and Tennessee (Knoxville).
• Other fast-growing Sun Belt cities such as Dallas–Fort Worth and Boise also appear high on moving‑to lists in 2025

This shift shows Phoenix may be plateauing slightly in appeal, while places in the Southeast gain ground.

Quick Summary Table

Final Thoughts

Phoenix remains a major U.S. growth engine—thanks to its warm climate, job market and relative affordability. But housing pressures and strong competition from Southeast cities are rebalancing the trend. Some are drawn away by newer hotspots in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas.

So whether you’re considering moving in Phoenix—or away—it’s all about weighing jobs, lifestyle, costs and the vibe that fits your life.