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Ohio's 2025 U-Haul Ranking Plummets Amid Net Loss

1/8/2026

37 7 Full Breakdown

Center

Ohio's Declining Appeal

The U-Haul Growth Index shows Ohio's 2025 ranking dropped 29 spots to No. 43.
Ohio recorded a net loss of movers, with 50.3% of one-way traffic leaving the state.
This marked Ohio's first year as a net-loss state since 2017.
Some Central Ohio suburbs, including Sunbury and Pataskala, still grew despite the decline.
Texas and Florida attracted many movers, indicating a regional shift toward southern states.

Right

California's Out-Migration Trend

California continues to lead in out-migration and ranks last in growth for the sixth consecutive year.
Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina attract movers.
Nine of the top ten states attracting movers voted Republican in the last election.
The Washington Post notes living-cost policies contribute to this trend.
Billionaire Larry Ellison sold his San Francisco mansion to avoid a proposed wealth tax.

History

Historical Context

In 2017, Ohio recorded a net migration loss for the first time, with over 50% of movers leaving the state. This trend parallels California's out-migration due to high living costs and reflects a broader shift towards states like Texas and Florida, which attract residents with favorable policies. Such patterns indicate potential long-term population declines for states unable to adapt to economic pressures.

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Ohio's Declining Appeal

The U-Haul Growth Index shows Ohio's 2025 ranking dropped 29 spots to No. 43.
Ohio recorded a net loss of movers, with 50.3% of one-way traffic leaving the state.
This marked Ohio's first year as a net-loss state since 2017.
Some Central Ohio suburbs, including Sunbury and Pataskala, still grew despite the decline.
Texas and Florida attracted many movers, indicating a regional shift toward southern states.

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