Drawn by its vibrant culture and growing job market, nationwide movers have increasingly chosen Houston as their new home. Based on national relocation trends, a new study by leasing company Penske Truck Rental ranks the Bayou City No. 1 among the top 10 moving destinations in the United States for 2024.
Four Texas cities ranked among the top 10 moving destinations. Following Houston, San Antonio ranks No. 3 with Dallas at No. 4. and Austin at No. 9.
According to the study, the primary reasons for relocation in 2024 include better job opportunities and a lower cost of living. Movers were also driven by more personal reasons for relocation, such as enjoying a closer proximity to loved ones and more space.
With thriving job opportunities, no state income tax, and a lower cost of living, Houston offers appealing advantages for relocation, giving residents plenty of reason to take pride in calling the city home. Unsurprisingly, two Florida cities also made the top 10, as the state shares the same tax benefit.
Recently, Houston was left off British gambling platform Betway.com's list of the 15 coolest cities in America — a ranking based on the number of tattoo shops, record stores, and vegan restaurants. While those factors may contribute to the quality of living, Penske's data suggests economic considerations hold far more sway than kale smoothies.
Penske compiled the data by analyzing one-way truck rental reservations made through the company website, following up with a customer survey. The report said 69 percent of its customers preferred renting and driving their own vehicle, but didn't state whether that decision was motivated by cost.
Houston has remained at the top of the list for four consecutive years. The rest of the top destination places were spread throughout the country. This is the complete list:
- No. 1 — Houston, Texas
- No. 2 — Atlanta, Georgia
- No. 3 — San Antonio, Texas
- No. 4 — Dallas, Texas
- No. 5 — Orlando, Florida
- No. 6 — Charlotte, North Carolina
- No. 7 — Las Vegas, Nevada
- No. 8 — Chicago, Illinois
- No. 9 — Austin, Texas
- No. 10 — Tampa, Florida
