Texas and Florida, January 7, 2026
According to U-Haul’s annual Growth Index, Texas and Florida have emerged as the top states for in-migration in 2025. Texas accounted for 50.7% of inbound moves, while Florida followed closely with 50.6%. The report analyzed over 2.5 million one-way moves across the U.S. and Canada, revealing significant migration patterns and economic implications that may shape the future political and economic landscape.
Texas and Florida Lead U-Haul’s 2025 Migration Trends
A Closer Look at Migration Trends and Economic Implications
Texas and Florida have emerged as the top destinations for movers in 2025, according to U-Haul’s annual Growth Index. This report analyzes over 2.5 million one-way customer transactions across the U.S. and Canada, highlighting significant migration patterns.
Texas Tops the Growth Index
Texas reclaimed its position as the leading state for in-migration, marking the seventh time in the past decade it has held this title. In 2025, 50.7% of all one-way U-Haul moves involving Texas were inbound, with a 3% year-over-year increase in arrivals and a 1% increase in departures compared to 2024.
Florida’s Continued Appeal
Florida ranked second in the Growth Index, with 50.6% of its one-way U-Haul traffic being inbound. The state experienced a 2% increase in arrivals and a 1% increase in departures year-over-year. Florida has consistently ranked in the top four since U-Haul began these rankings in 2015.
Other States in the Top Five
North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina followed Texas and Florida, maintaining their positions from the previous year. The top ten states also included Washington, Arizona, Idaho, Alabama, and Georgia.
California’s Persistent Out-Migration
California continued to experience the highest level of out-migration, ranking last on the Growth Index for the sixth consecutive year. However, its net loss in 2025 was smaller than in 2024. Other states with significant out-migration included New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Illinois.
Political Trends in Migration
The report noted a discernible trend of migration from traditionally Democratic-leaning states to Republican-led states. Seven of the top ten growth states are currently governed by Republicans, and nine voted Republican in the last presidential election. Conversely, nine of the bottom ten growth states have Democratic governors, with seven voting Democratic in the last election.
Conclusion
The 2025 U-Haul Growth Index underscores the ongoing migration patterns within the United States, with Texas and Florida leading as prime destinations. These trends reflect broader demographic shifts and may influence economic and political landscapes in the coming years.
FAQ
What is the U-Haul Growth Index?
The U-Haul Growth Index analyzes over 2.5 million one-way customer transactions across the U.S. and Canada to identify migration patterns.
Which states experienced the highest in-migration in 2025?
Texas and Florida led the list, followed by North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina.
Which state had the highest out-migration in 2025?
California experienced the highest level of out-migration, ranking last on the Growth Index for the sixth consecutive year.
What political trends are associated with these migration patterns?
The report noted a trend of migration from traditionally Democratic-leaning states to Republican-led states, with seven of the top ten growth states currently governed by Republicans.
How does the U-Haul Growth Index impact economic and political landscapes?
The migration patterns identified in the Growth Index can influence economic development, housing markets, and political dynamics in both origin and destination states.
Key Features of the 2025 U-Haul Growth Index
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Top In-Migration States | Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina |
| Top Out-Migration States | California, New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Illinois |
| Political Trends | Migration from Democratic-leaning to Republican-led states |
| Data Source | Over 2.5 million one-way U-Haul transactions across the U.S. and Canada |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas Economy Shows Resilience and Growth Opportunities
How Evolution Technologies Is Accelerating San Antonio’s Cloud Innovations
San Antonio’s Small Business Resilience and Growth
New Data Center Boosts San Antonio’s Tech Landscape
Texas Labor Force Hits Record High Despite Layoff Surge
Shifting Trends: Metro Areas Facing Population Departures
Smokey Mo’s BBQ Addresses Rat Infestation Allegations
Dale, Texas, Ranks as Most Popular Moving Destination
Texas Economy Faces Uncertain Future Amid Immigration Policy Changes
Texas Job Growth Faces Setback Amid Immigration Crackdown
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
