Florida continues to attract movers from across the country in 2025, with multiple Florida metropolitan areas ranking among the top inbound MSAs nationwide, according to the 2025 National Movers Study by United Van Lines.
Rather than one single city driving growth, Florida’s appeal spans coastal, retirement-friendly, and lifestyle-focused communities, making it a top destination for individuals, families, and retirees alike.
Top Inbound Florida Metro Areas (MSAs) in 2025
Based on inbound percentage of household moves, the following Florida metro areas rank among the nation’s top inbound MSAs:
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Punta Gorda, FL — 67% inbound moves (Ranked #11 nationally)
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Daytona Beach, FL — 63% inbound moves (Ranked #21 nationally)
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Sarasota–Bradenton, FL — 62% inbound moves (Ranked #22 nationally)
These metro areas meet the study’s definition of “high inbound”, meaning a strong majority of moves are coming into the area rather than leaving.
Why Florida Continues to Attract Movers
Florida’s inbound growth reflects both long-standing advantages and new post-pandemic priorities, including:
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Warm climate and outdoor lifestyle
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Retirement-friendly communities
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No state income tax
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Expanding healthcare and service infrastructure
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Proximity to family for relocating households
Florida’s diversity of metro areas allows movers to choose between coastal living, suburban communities, or quieter retirement destinations — all while benefiting from statewide economic and tax advantages.
A National Shift in Why People Move (Last 8 Years)
While Florida’s popularity continues to grow, why people move has changed dramatically nationwide — and these trends directly impact inbound Florida moves.
From Job-Driven Moves to Family-First Decisions
Over the last eight years:
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New job or company transfer moves dropped from 47.6% in 2018 to 25.9% in 2025
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Moving to be closer to family rose from 24.1% to 29.1%, becoming the top reason Americans relocate
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Retirement-related moves now account for 13.9% of all moves nationally
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Lifestyle changes (downsizing, climate, pace of life) remain a consistent motivator
This shift reflects increased remote work flexibility, multi-generational planning, and a stronger focus on quality of life — all factors that favor Florida destinations.
What the National Movers Study Measures
The United Van Lines National Movers Study, conducted annually since 1977, analyzes interstate household moves across the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C.
The study:
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Ranks states and MSAs by inbound vs. outbound percentages
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Identifies high inbound, high outbound, and balanced markets
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Tracks long-term demographic and lifestyle migration trends
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Provides insight into where Americans are moving — and why
Together, the MSA rankings and eight-year trend data offer a clear picture of Florida’s continued role as a top relocation destination.
Moving to Florida in 2025? Sorensen Moving & Storage Can Help
Whether you’re relocating to Southwest Florida, Central Florida, or along the coast, Sorensen Moving & Storage specializes in moves designed around today’s priorities — family, lifestyle, and long-term planning.
Our services include:
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Local and long-distance moving
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Professional packing and logistics
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Secure transportation and storage
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Personalized move planning from start to finish
Contact Sorensen Moving & Storage today to plan your Florida move with confidence and experience.


