Better Weather Is the Top Reason Americans Are Planning Out-of-State Moves, Outranking Affordability
- 22% of U.S. residents moving to a different state cited better weather as a factor in their move, the most commonly cited reason, per a new Redfin survey
- Nearly as many people, 21%, are looking to move out of state due to concerns about climate change
- Weather and climate concerns are more common reasons for moving out of state than affordability, a new job or living closer to family
More than one in five (22%) U.S. residents planning an out-of-state move said better weather is motivating their relocation, making it the most commonly cited reason among 29 options included in a recent survey from Redfin, the real estate brokerage powered by Rocket.
To meet this need for weather transparency, Redfin now offers weather data from The Weather Company on all for-sale listings to give home searchers information on temperature, precipitation, snowfall, humidity and UV exposure.
Concerns about natural disasters and climate risks ranked a close second, with 21% of respondents saying those factors are influencing the decision to leave their current state.
This is according to a Redfin survey conducted by Ipsos in May 2026, fielded to 4,000 U.S. residents. They were asked: "Which of the following reflect reasons why you are likely to move in the next year?" Respondents could select all that apply from a list of 29 options. The results in this report are from the respondents who said they’re planning to move to a different state in the next 12 months.
People who plan to move to a different neighborhood or city within their state have different top reasons. Among that group, 29% are moving to upgrade to a better home or neighborhood, and the same share plan to move because they want more space, the most commonly cited factors. Next comes concern for safety/crime (21%). Just 9% of this group cited better weather as a reason for their move, and 14% cited concern for natural disasters or climate risks.
Migration Data Shows That Americans Commonly Move From Cold Places to Warm, Sunny Locales
Redfin migration data shows that Americans consistently move from northern parts of the country to warm, sunny southern metro areas. Florida, Las Vegas and Sacramento are among the most popular destinations for relocating homebuyers and renters. This survey shows a similar trend: Of the respondents who are planning an out-of-state move, 14% are moving to Florida, the most commonly cited state, followed closely by Texas (13%) and California (11%).
Of course, many of the metros that people are leaving are much more expensive than the places they’re moving to; cost of living is an important consideration in deciding where to live, but so is weather. Many of the places with warm, sunny weather happen to have fairly affordable homes, too. For instance, the typical home in Orlando sells for $411,000, about half as much as the typical home in New York, the most common out-of-state origin for people moving to Orlando.
"Many movers are looking for a location that aligns with their ideal lifestyle, and weather can play a meaningful role in that decision," said Redfin Economist Yingqi Xu. "Whether it’s escaping harsh winters, the desire for year-round outdoor recreation or looking to sunshine as a mood booster, weather is an important consideration for many Americans who are relocating."
A separate Redfin survey found that U.S. residents prioritize sunlight over home size: 44% would prefer a smaller home with more sunlight over a larger, dimmer home, while 24% would prefer the opposite. The survey also found that people who live in sun-filled homes are much more likely to love where they live.
In terms of Americans moving due to concern about natural disasters and climate risks, a separate Redfin analysis reinforces that point. Movement away from flood-prone parts of the U.S. intensified in 2025 after becoming a notable trend in 2024.
Safety, Affordability, Politics Also Factor Into Out-of-State Moves
Among those planning an out-of-state move, concern for safety or crime was the most commonly cited reason after weather and climate risk, with 20% of respondents selecting that option. Next comes moving for a new job (19%). They’re followed by lower overall cost of living (18%), and moving to be closer to family (18%).
Another affordability factor—lower rental/home prices, cited by 15%—also landed on the top 10 list.
It’s also noteworthy that a sizable share of respondents said they plan to move for political reasons. More than one in 10 (12%) who intend to move out-of-state are moving to live in an area where their views are better aligned with the political majority, and 8% are planning to move to live in a place where abortions are legal and/or accessible.
To view the full report, including a chart, full survey results and methodology, please visit: redfin.com/news/americans-moving-better-weather
About Redfin
Redfin is a technology-driven real estate company with the country's most-visited real estate brokerage website. As part of Rocket Companies (NYSE:RKT), Redfin is creating an integrated homeownership platform from search to close to make the dream of homeownership more affordable and accessible for everyone. Redfin’s clients can see homes first with on-demand tours, easily apply for a home loan with Rocket Mortgage, and save thousands in fees while working with a top local agent.
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