Florida Leads US Migration Trends in 2025

Florida cities attract many newcomers seeking a better quality of life.

News Summary

A recent report reveals that Florida is the top destination for migration in the United States for 2025, with cities like Clermont and The Villages drawing significant interest. This influx from states such as New York and California has enhanced the state’s economy but raised concerns over rising living costs. The state’s favorable climate, lifestyle options, and recreational activities continue to attract movers, although the pace of migration may slow in the coming years.

Florida, May 26, 2025 – A new report has highlighted that Florida is at the forefront of migration trends in the United States for 2025, with eight cities from the state ranking among the top-searched locations for potential movers. The analysis, derived from comprehensive online search data, indicates a pronounced interest in regions of the South and Southeast, with Florida emerging as a particularly attractive destination.

In this report, the cities of Clermont and The Villages made a notable impact. Clermont, situated just west of Orlando, offers an appealing environment marked by scenic lakes and gentle hills, providing amenities reminiscent of larger metropolitan areas but with fewer disadvantages. The Villages, a unique census-designated community, caters specifically to residents aged 55 and older, making it a prime location for retirees.

This recent influx of people relocating to Florida from states like New York, Georgia, and California over the past few years has significantly bolstered Florida’s economy. However, the continuing wave of migration has also resulted in heightened living costs for local residents, prompting concerns about affordability in the face of increasing demand.

The report, which assessed the top-searched cities for migration using net migration data, highlights that Florida’s cities are sought after for their warm climates, attractive lifestyles, and abundant leisure activities. Expert predictions indicate that while Florida’s population growth will persist, the rate of incoming migration is anticipated to slow in the upcoming years.

The complete ranking of the top 25 cities reveals a landscape that reflects a diverse array of locations across the country. Wildwood, Florida, emerged at the top of this list with an impressive net migration rate of 19.53%, a figure that exemplifies the ongoing retirement trend in the region. Following Wildwood are various cities including Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and Leander, Texas, which also rank highly for migration interest.

Top 25 Cities for Migration in 2025

1. Wildwood, Florida
2. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
3. Leander, Texas
4. Palm Desert, California
5. Naples, Florida
6. Casa Grande, Arizona
7. Zephyrhills, Florida
8. San Marcos, Texas
9. Conroe, Texas
10. Bonita Springs, Florida
11. Miami Beach, Florida
12. Daytona Beach, Florida
13. Georgetown, Texas
14. Lehi, Utah
15. New Braunfels, Texas
16. Port St. Lucie, Florida
17. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
18. Salt Lake City, Utah
19. Katy, Texas
20. Queen Creek, Arizona
21. Little Elm, Texas
22. Palm Bay, Florida
23. Maricopa, Arizona
24. Palm Coast, Florida
25. Caldwell, Idaho

The migration phenomenon is likely to induce changes in the housing market, with ongoing demand potentially leading to adjustments in both prices and available inventory. Those invested in Florida’s real estate will need to monitor these emerging trends as the state’s allure as a migration hotspot continues to evolve.

As the search for desirable living conditions remains a priority for many individuals and families, Florida’s prominence on this list underscores a shifting demographic landscape that may define housing and economic practices in the years to come.