U-Haul’s Top Growth Metros and Cities for 2024 Dallas Leads in In-Migration
The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan area, commonly referred to as the DFW Metroplex, has claimed the title of the leading U-Haul Growth Metro of 2024. This milestone signifies the area’s substantial net gains in U-Haul® customers moving one-way into the metro. Charlotte, Phoenix, Lakeland, and Austin round out the top five U.S. growth metros, highlighting significant migration trends across the country.
The U-Haul Growth Index: A Snapshot of Migration Trends
For the first time, metro areas have been included in U-Haul’s annual growth reports and rankings. The U-Haul Growth Index draws its insights from over 2.5 million one-way truck, trailer, and U-Box® portable moving container transactions completed each year across the U.S. and Canada. These rankings offer a unique lens through which to view migration patterns, as they capture data directly from the moving choices of millions of individuals and families.
Unprecedented Growth in DFW
“We are seeing unprecedented growth in the Dallas metro area, both within the city and also suburbs like McKinney, Plano, and Addison,” stated Sean Fullerton, U-Haul Company of South Central Dallas president. He attributes this trend to several factors:
- Affordable Cost of Living: The reasonable cost of living throughout the Metroplex attracts individuals and families seeking financial stability.
- Job Growth: A booming job market, particularly in sectors such as technology, finance, and healthcare, has driven wage increases and economic expansion.
- Tax Incentives: Favorable tax policies have encouraged both businesses and individuals to relocate to the area.
The combination of these factors has established the DFW Metroplex as a magnet for newcomers and a prime destination for relocation.
Florida Dominates the Growth Metros
Florida continues to shine in the U-Haul Growth Index, with seven of the top 25 growth metros located in the Sunshine State. Beyond Lakeland, the cities of Palm Bay, Jacksonville, Tampa, Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Daytona Beach have also seen notable growth. This trend underscores Florida’s enduring appeal as a relocation hotspot.
Ocala: The Leading U-Haul Growth City
U-Haul also unveiled its list of top 25 U.S. cities, focusing on municipalities outside the leading metros. Ocala, Florida, claimed the top spot for the second time, having previously ranked first in 2022 and second in 2023. This marks the fifth consecutive year a Florida city has topped the rankings.
Brady Rome, president of U-Haul Company of Gainesville, elaborated on Ocala’s appeal:
- Low Cost of Living: Housing affordability remains a key draw for families moving to central Florida.
- Job Market: Ocala’s robust employment opportunities, particularly in manufacturing and healthcare, attract a diverse workforce.
- Equestrian Culture: Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala’s equestrian center continues to lure residents and tourists alike.
Regional Highlights in the Growth Rankings
Several states have demonstrated strong performances in the U-Haul Growth Index:
- Florida: With five of the top 25 cities, Florida leads the pack.
- Tennessee, Washington, and Alabama: Each state is represented by three cities in the top 25.
- Virginia: Fredericksburg and Lorton, both within 50 miles of Washington, D.C., rank among the top growth cities.
While the U-Haul Index does not directly correlate with population or economic growth statistics, it serves as a valuable barometer for understanding where people are relocating.
U-Haul: A Leader in Migration Insights and Sustainability
U-Haul’s expansive network spans all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces, providing unmatched geographical coverage. With over 23,000 rental locations, U-Haul captures a comprehensive view of migration trends unmatched by other organizations.
Beyond its role in tracking migration, U-Haul remains committed to environmental sustainability. The company’s shared-use business model allows communities to access moving equipment without the need to own large-capacity vehicles. Key sustainability initiatives include:
- Adaptive Reuse: Repurposing existing buildings for new U-Haul locations, reducing the need for new construction.
- Fuel-Efficient Modifications: Enhancing truck designs to improve fuel economy.
- Reusable Resources: Offering Ready-To-Go Boxes® that can be reused hundreds of times before recycling.
- U-Box Load Share: This program exemplifies eco-friendly solutions tailored to the gig economy and has earned multiple sustainability awards.
Migration Trends: A Reflection of Broader Shifts
The 2024 U-Haul Index highlights significant migration patterns across the U.S. Factors such as cost of living, job opportunities, and quality of life continue to drive relocation decisions. As seen in the DFW Metroplex and Florida’s cities, regions that can balance economic growth with livability are poised to attract new residents. U-Haul’s data not only captures these trends but also underscores its role as a leader in both the moving and sustainability industries.
With cities like Dallas, Ocala, and Charlotte leading the way, the U-Haul Index offers a fascinating glimpse into where America is moving and why.