Wilmington, North Carolina, is officially the hottest spot to move to in the United States—again! According to a recent study by United Van Lines, Wilmington claimed the top spot among metro areas in 2024. Of all the moves involving Wilmington last year a whopping 83% of were from new inbound resident. Only 17% were from people leaving to other destinations.
This isn’t the city’s first time shining on the national stage; it also held the top rank back in 2022.
Here is how the cities ranked in the top 10:
| Rank | City | Inbound Percentage | Outbound Percentage |
| 1 | Wilmington, NC | 83% | 17% |
| 2 | Springfield, MO | 81% | 19% |
| 3 | Myrtle Beach, SC | 80% | 20% |
| T-4 | Flagstaff, AZ | 79% | 21% |
| T-4 | Brownsville, TX | 79% | 21% |
| 6 | Bellingham, WA | 78% | 22% |
| 7 | Dover, DE | 77% | 23% |
| 8 | Yuma, AZ | 76% | 24% |
| 9 | Hickory, NC | 75% | 25% |
| T-10 | Sioux Falls, SD | 74% | 26% |
| T-10 | Greenville, NC | 74% | 26% |
So, why is every moving into Wilmington?
A combination of factors is pulling people in. North Carolina’s lower cost of living and comparatively affordable housing market make Wilmington especially appealing, particularly when stacked against pricier coastal cities. The region offers a lifestyle that feels like a win-win: proximity to the beach, without breaking the bank.
And it’s not just about affordability. Wilmington’s thriving job market is another big attraction. Local companies are expanding, and new businesses are setting up shop in the area, making it a hub for both traditional and remote workers. It’s a place where opportunities and lifestyle converge, which is tough to beat.
Wilmington is clearly doing something right—and it looks like the rest of the country has taken notice.