A new Redfin survey finds that 22% of Americans planning an out-of-state relocation cite better weather as a motivating factor - edging out affordability, job opportunities, and proximity to family.
Source: Original report
Weather Beats Affordability as the Primary Driver of Out-of-State Moves
When Americans decide to pack up and leave their home state, the forecast matters more than the price tag. According to a Redfin survey conducted by Ipsos in May 2026 — fielded to 4,000 U.S. residents — 22% of those planning an out-of-state move within the next 12 months identified better weather as a key motivating factor, ranking it first among 29 options respondents could select.
Just behind that, 21% said concerns about natural disasters and climate risks are pushing them toward relocation. Both figures outrank more commonly assumed drivers such as lower cost of living (18%), a new job (19%), and the desire to be closer to family (18%).
Sun Belt States Remain Top Destinations
Redfin's own migration data reinforces the survey findings. Americans continue to flow from colder, northern metros toward warmer, sunnier southern destinations. Among those surveyed who are planning an out-of-state move, Florida led as the most commonly cited destination at 14%, followed by Texas at 13% and California at 11%.
The affordability angle is still real — it just operates alongside the weather factor. Many Sun Belt metros offer homes at a fraction of the cost compared to the high-priced cities people are leaving. For example, the median home sale price in Orlando sits around $411,000, roughly half the typical price in New York, which is among the most common origin markets for people relocating to Orlando.
Redfin economist Yingqi Xu noted that movers are often seeking a lifestyle match, with weather playing a meaningful role. Escaping brutal winters, pursuing year-round outdoor activities, and the psychological benefits of consistent sunshine are all cited motivations.
Climate Risk Is Also Pushing People Out
The second-place ranking of climate and natural disaster concerns signals a shift in how Americans think about where they live. A separate Redfin analysis found that out-migration from flood-prone regions accelerated in 2025, building on a trend that had already been gaining momentum in 2024. For a growing segment of the population, staying put in a high-risk area is no longer seen as worth it.
Safety, Politics, and Affordability Round Out the Top Reasons
After weather and climate concerns, the survey found the following motivating factors among those planning an out-of-state move:
- Safety and crime concerns: 20%
- New job opportunity: 19%
- Lower overall cost of living: 18%
- Moving closer to family: 18%
- Lower rent or home prices: 15%
Political motivations were also notable. About 12% of out-of-state movers said they want to live in a community where the political majority aligns with their views, and 8% cited abortion access as a factor in choosing their destination state.
In-State Movers Have Different Priorities
People staying within their current state show a distinctly different set of motivations. Among those planning an in-state move, upgrading to a better home or neighborhood and wanting more space each drew 29% of respondents. Safety concerns followed at 21%. Only 9% of in-state movers mentioned better weather as a factor, compared to 22% of those crossing state lines — reinforcing that climate preferences tend to become most influential when people are willing to make a bigger geographic commitment.
