Recent Census data shows a historic slowdown in household moves. In 2024 just 11.2% of U.S. households changed addresses – the lowest mobility rate recorded since the Census began tracking the metric in 1948. That translates to roughly 14.8 million moves, a sharp decline from a decade ago.
States with the longest home tenure
Analysis by Spokeo, using Census figures and supporting research from Harvard and Axios, highlights a clear regional split. Appalachian and Northeastern states dominate the stability rankings. West Virginia leads with 68.8% of households still living in the same home since 2019, followed closely by Pennsylvania (68.1%), Vermont and New York (both 67.9%). New Hampshire, Michigan, Maine, New Jersey, Connecticut and Rhode Island round out the top ten, each with more than two‑thirds of residents staying put.
States with the highest turnover
At the opposite end, the Sun Belt and Mountain West see the most movement. Oregon (59.4%), Oklahoma (58.9%) and Washington (58.1%) have the highest share of households that have moved since 2019. Utah, North Dakota and Arizona each sit around 56.8%, while Florida, Texas, Colorado and Nevada fall between 53.6% and 56.7%.
Why the gap?
Affordability remains a primary driver. Home prices have risen about 60% since 2019, and mortgage rates hovered near 6.7% during the 2024 data collection period. Many owners who refinanced at pandemic‑low rates now face a steep choice: keep a low‑rate loan or sell and take on a higher‑rate mortgage. Harvard data estimates this trade‑off prevented roughly 320,000 moves in 2024.
Older homeowners are especially staying put. Mobility among those aged 65‑79 fell 11% between 2019 and 2023, outpacing declines among younger owners. Meanwhile, younger adults (25‑34) are more likely to live with parents – a share that rose from 10% in 2000 to 15% in 2023, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond.
Implications for buyers, employers and policymakers
Low‑turnover states experience tighter housing inventories, leading to slower, more competitive markets for buyers. High‑turnover states offer more listings but less predictability year‑to‑year. Employers recruiting across state lines should anticipate longer relocation timelines in stable regions such as the Northeast and Appalachia.
Policymakers face divergent needs. In fast‑moving Sun Belt states, new construction must keep pace with demand. In slower‑moving Appalachian and Northeastern states, incentives may be required to bring existing homes back onto the market.
The national 11.2% relocation figure masks these regional differences. Understanding the state‑by‑state picture is essential for homeowners, buyers, employers and legislators seeking realistic solutions to the housing market’s challenges.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
