Weather Leads Americans’ Reasons for Out-of-State Relocation, Survey Finds

A Redfin survey conducted by Ipsos in May 2026 asked 4,000 U.S. residents which of 29 factors motivated a planned move to another state within the next year. Better weather emerged as the top driver, with 22 % of respondents selecting it, while concerns about natural disasters and climate risks followed closely at 21 %.

Survey: Which Factor Tops Affordability as Reason Americans Plan Out-of-State Moves?

• Top motivations: Weather (22 %); natural-disaster concerns (21 %); lower overall living costs (18 %); cheaper home prices (15 %).

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• Preferred destinations: Florida (14 % of movers), Texas (13 %) and California (11 %).

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• Home-price contrast: The typical home in Orlando sells for about $411,000, roughly half the price of a typical home in New York, the most common origin state for those moving to Orlando.

Survey: Which Factor Tops Affordability as Reason Americans Plan Out-of-State Moves?

• In-state movers: Among respondents planning to move within their current state, 29 % cite a desire for more space and 29 % cite upgrading to a better home or neighborhood; only 9 % mention weather.

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Redfin economist Yingqi Xu explained that “many movers are looking for a location that aligns with their ideal lifestyle, and weather can play a meaningful role in that decision.” The company has added weather data from The Weather Company to all for-sale listings, providing temperature, precipitation, snowfall, humidity and UV exposure to aid buyers.

Survey: Which Factor Tops Affordability as Reason Americans Plan Out-of-State Moves?

The survey suggests that warm, sunny regions continue to attract newcomers despite higher exposure to climate risks. Florida’s housing market may benefit from this trend, as elevated mortgage rates and new construction have already moderated price growth after pandemic-era spikes. At the same time, the strong link between climate preferences and relocation underscores the growing importance of environmental factors in real-estate decisions.

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• “Many movers are looking for a location that aligns with their ideal lifestyle, and weather can play a meaningful role in that decision,” — Yingqi Xu, Redfin Economist

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• “Whether it’s escaping harsh winters, the desire for year-round outdoor recreation or looking to sunshine as a mood booster, weather is an important consideration for many Americans who are relocating.” — Yingqi Xu, Redfin Economist

Survey: Which Factor Tops Affordability as Reason Americans Plan Out-of-State Moves?

• “Of those planning to move to a different state in the next 12 months, 22% cited better weather as a reason for relocating — the most common response among the survey’s 29 options.” — Redfin survey

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