2025 Moving Trends Reveal Big Shifts

What It Means for Relocation Programs

Each year, the summer months mark the traditional peak of moving season — a window nestled between the end of one school year and the start of another, when families and companies alike make relocation decisions. In 2025, that seasonal rhythm is still in place, but the motivations and destinations are shifting — and the relocation industry must adapt.

Layered on top of these demographic shifts are new economic developments: slowing GDP growth, sticky inflation, and uncertainty around interest rates. These trends are creating both headwinds and opportunities for companies managing workforce mobility.

Let’s explore what the latest data means for relocation programs.

📦 Sun Belt Still Hot, But with a Twist

According to PODS’ Fifth Annual Moving Trends Report, released in May 2025, two-thirds of moves are headed to the Sun Belt. North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina continue to dominate the list of top destinations.

Cities like Myrtle Beach/Wilmington, Ocala, Raleigh, and Greenville-Spartanburg stand out for their:

• Lower cost of living
• Milder climate and outdoor lifestyle
• Growing job opportunities, especially in tech, logistics, and healthcare

Why this matters: These metros offer affordability and lifestyle advantages that are increasingly compelling in a high-rate, inflation-sensitive economy. Companies with regional hubs or remote employees in these areas may find stronger retention and engagement.

🚚 Outbound Exodus: California, Florida & the Northeast

Los Angeles, San Francisco, South Florida, and the New York suburbs top the move-out lists again in 2025.

Factors driving these outbound moves:

• California remains the leading outbound state due to high housing costs, taxes, and January’s wildfires.
• Florida, previously a post-pandemic winner, now faces $15,460 average insurance premiums and weather-related disruptions.
• The Northeast continues to lose residents due to cost-of-living concerns and outdated infrastructure.

Why this matters: In a time when the U.S. economy contracted 0.3% in Q1, and consumer confidence is fragile, affordability and risk exposure are driving permanent lifestyle shifts. Employers in these markets may need to rethink their relocation benefits and cost-of-living policies.

🏠 Real Estate, Rates & Relocation Math

Affordability remains the dominant challenge in 2025. Mortgage rates are holding steady at 6.76% (Freddie Mac), making relocation less feasible without meaningful support.

• U.S. home values are up 2.1% to $361,300.
• Southeast states remain more affordable, with median home values in South Carolina ($298K), Tennessee ($319K), and North Carolina ($331K).
• Rental rates in the Southeast are about $200 below the national average of $1,750/month.

Meanwhile, inflation is moderating but still sticky. April’s CPI report showed a 2.3% annual increase in headline inflation and 2.8% in core. However, the impact of new tariffs could push inflation toward 4% by year-end.

Why this matters: Relocation policies must be recalibrated. Flat lump sum approaches may no longer suffice. Companies should consider:

• Rent and mortgage assistance
• Cost-of-living adjustments
• Temporary housing stipends

📉 A Changing Volume of Moves — and Their Distance

While high costs have curbed casual moves, strategic and long-distance relocations are rising.

PODS reports:

• 92% of moves in 2025 were interstate
• Average move distance increased year over year

These patterns reflect:

• Workforce shifts to lower-cost metros
• Retirees relocating permanently
• Strategic job-related relocations

Why this matters: Interstate moves require more planning, compliance support, and logistics. With GDP slowing and volatility expected to persist, HR teams should prioritize partnerships with a relocation management company that offer industry experience, agility, real-time data, and cost visibility.

🔄 Implications for HR and Mobility Leaders

The economic picture painted by J.P. Morgan Chase suggests increased volatility ahead — slowing growth, stubborn inflation, and interest rates held steady amid policy uncertainty. For mobility leaders, this underscores the need for proactive planning.

Top recommendations:

• Focus on affordable markets. Target relocations to cities with rising appeal and lower costs.
• Structure smarter benefits. Include flexible housing allowances and relocation tax strategies.
• Partner for performance. Leverage InterLink’s relocation expertise to reduce internal workload and deliver exceptional support.

💬 Final Thoughts

The 2025 relocation landscape is shaped by both moving trends and economic realities. Slower growth, higher rates, and shifting migration patterns demand modern mobility strategies.

At InterLink, we help companies navigate these transitions with scalable relocation support, housing solutions, and policy consulting. Whether you’re moving one employee or restructuring your mobility program, we’re here to help you adapt and thrive.

📞 Let’s build a relocation program that’s ready for 2025 and beyond.

Reach out at 866-254-3910 or  info@interlinkrelocation.com to learn how InterLink Relocation Resources can support relocation for your evolving workforce.