2025 Housing Migration Trends
U.S. Migration Trends: Sacramento Tops the List in 2025 Moves
The way Americans are relocating continues to shift, and the latest migration data as reported by Redfin (May – July 2025) reveals some compelling trends about where homebuyers are going.
Sacramento Leads U.S. Metros for Inbound Interest
One of the most surprising findings is that Sacramento ranked as the most searched-for metro destination in the country for relocating buyers. It beat out other popular destinations like Phoenix, Salisbury (MD), Cape Coral, and Sarasota.
At the same time, Los Angeles topped the list of metros people are looking to leave, followed closely by New York, Washington, Seattle, and San Francisco. The shift highlights Sacramento’s growing reputation as a place that offers affordability, lifestyle, and proximity to major job markets without the high costs of coastal cities.
Sacramento Migration & Relocation Trends
Zooming in on Sacramento, the data reveals a balance between local loyalty and outward movement:
- Staying Local: 65% of Sacramento buyers searched for homes within the metro area, showing strong interest in putting down roots.
- Looking Beyond: 35% searched outside the region, with Boise emerging as the most popular destination, followed by Dallas and Nashville.
Who’s Moving Into Sacramento?
Sacramento isn’t just holding onto its own buyers, it’s also attracting newcomers. 2% of all national homebuyers searching from outside metros were considering a move to Sacramento.
The top feeder markets were:
- San Francisco
- Houston
- Los Angeles
This trend underscores Sacramento’s role as a relocation magnet for Bay Area residents seeking more space, better value, and a higher quality of life while staying within reach of Northern California’s economic centers.
Access the Redfin story here: https://www.redfin.com/city/16409/CA/Sacramento/housing-market#migration
Lifestyle Opportunities Beyond the Core City
What makes Sacramento even more appealing is that the lifestyle opportunities extend far beyond the core city and downtown. Surrounding areas like Roseville, Granite Bay, Galt, Natomas, El Dorado Hills, and Rescue have flourished from hidden gems into thriving communities. Families are drawn to these neighborhoods for their larger homesites, abundant recreation, walkable designs, and top-rated schools.
Outdoor enthusiasts especially value the region’s access to nature: Folsom Lake offers boating, paddleboarding, and lakeside trails, while the American River Parkway provides 30+ miles of biking, jogging, and kayaking opportunities. Just a short drive away, the Sierra foothills open up weekend adventures with hiking, wineries, and world class skiing in the winter. Combined with vibrant shopping districts and community events, these suburban enclaves strike the perfect balance of space, connection, and convenience.
The Big Picture
America’s migration story continues to be shaped by affordability, lifestyle, and opportunity. Sacramento stands out as both a sought-after destination and a metro that retains the majority of its homebuyers. Meanwhile, the national trend shows continued movement toward the Sunbelt, with buyers leaving high-cost states for warmer and more affordable ones.
As these trends evolve, one thing is clear: where people choose to live is about more than just a house, it’s about the lifestyle, opportunities, and future they’re building