What’s the best city to move to in 2023? While we all have a wish list, we may find that our dream destination is not what we expected. The best city is different for each person, depending on their situation and their preferences. What’s the best city for you to move to? It depends on what you like and value.
This post will list the top and most popular moving destinations. Just because a city is suitable for others doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best place for you. Nevertheless, this list may give you some ideas and let you know where to start your search for the best new location.
Most Popular Moving Destinations in the U.S.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Myrtle Beach is the fastest-growing of the 150 most populated metro areas in the U.S. It had a population increase of 17.72 percent over the past five years, primarily due to an influx of new residents. But the entire metro area has a population of less than 500,000.
Both young people and empty-nesters find Myrtle Beach appealing because of its pleasant weather, many recreation options, good healthcare, and low housing and living costs. Because it’s a popular tourist destination, residents can enjoy great restaurants, many leisure activities, and a full calendar of events. Its low income taxes and pro-business climate also make it an excellent place to start a company.
Lakeland, FL
Lakeland is named for the 38 picturesque lakes in the area. The city traces its roots back to the 19th Century and is steeped in Florida history. There are many parks that enable residents to enjoy the natural scenery and the comfortable weather. The entire area has a population of 760,000 which is projected to grow to over 1,000,000 by 2060. But the city retains a small-town feel where many residents know each other.
Besides its amenities, Lakeland is close to many of Florida’s other famous attractions like Disney World, Universal Studios, and South Florida beaches. Two hours’ drive north is Florida’s gulf coast with its white sand beaches, restaurants, and resort hotels.
Sarasota, FL
The Sarasota metro area’s population grew by nine percent from 2016 to 2021 and is now 860,000. Located just south of Tampa and St. Petersburg, Sarasota has an active art scene, a famous opera house, and a popular food culture emphasizing American, Italian, Latin American and Amish and Mennonite cuisine.
Its uniqueness draws people who move to Sarasota—the downtown area has resorts and fine dining, but other areas are reminiscent of a small, seaside town. Although Sarasota is known as a retirement community, young professionals have also started moving there and creating a number of up-and-coming neighborhoods.
Fort Myers, FL
Also near Tampa on Florida’s gulf coast, the “City of Palms” has long been a popular vacation destination. Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Harvey Firestone have been regular visitors. Recently, it has become a top moving destination as well. Fort Myers is the sixth fastest-growing city in the nation: its population increased by 39 percent between 2010 and 2020.
The city’s constant warm temperatures are amenable to outdoor recreation, and Fort Myers offers many options like boating, fishing, biking, tennis, and golf. It also has many cultural attractions like local theaters, art galleries, the Southwest Florida Symphony Orchestra, and restaurants run by renowned chefs.
Boise, ID
The capital and most populous city of Idaho offers plentiful opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors with the amenities of a large city. The metro area has a population of 470,000 which is projected to grow 68 percent by 2060.
Boise’s residents enjoy locally sourced food and drinks, city parks, museums, botanical gardens, an opera house and a water park. They are also not far from mountains, canyons, lakes, and deserts.
Retirees come to Boise because of its low cost of living and access to quality healthcare. Younger families also are attracted to Boise because of its low housing cost and many family-friendly activities. Boise is one of the best cities in the U.S. to raise a family.
Ocala, FL
Ocala metro area has a population of 390,000 and is the fifth fastest-growing area in the country. Both residents and visitors enjoy Ocala’s gorgeous scenery, sporting events, and other outdoor recreation and entertainment.
Located in north-central Florida and surrounded by clear streams, forests, and rolling hills, Ocala is one of the cleanest cities in the U.S. It also has one of the most affordable downtown areas with low housing costs. The downtown has Victorian homes around a city square with many restaurants and active nightlife. There are also many art galleries, movie houses, and local breweries.
Ocala is known as the “Horse Capital of the World” for its many horse farms and racehorse training centers. Ocala and Marion County have the most horses of any county in the U.S. Ocala has been the training ground for many Kentucky Derby winners.
Top Foreign Moving Destinations for Expats
If choosing a moving destination in the U.S. is hard, then choosing one in a foreign country is even more challenging. Nevertheless, about nine million Americans (not counting military members) live abroad in 160 other countries. The top countries that Americans move to are Mexico, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, and Israel.
A common reason for Americans to move abroad is family issues. Many Americans, especially retirees, also move overseas because of the lower cost of living. Here are the top six cities that American expats are moving to:
Valencia, Spain
Valencia is considered the top foreign city for Americans to live and work, according to a survey of over 12,000 expats. It earned the top spot because of its comfortable climate, safety, cultural amenities, nightlife, and travel opportunities.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is a luxurious oasis in the middle of the desert. Featuring the world’s tallest building and the second-biggest shopping mall, Dubai offers attractive job opportunities for foreign professionals in architecture, finance, media, and other fields. Several expat neighborhoods feature shopping and dining options, as well as golf courses, spas, and even ski slopes.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City attracts many American workers who work remotely for U.S. companies. They find housing costs are much lower than in American cities, especially with the current strong dollar. Expats living in Mexico City generally enjoy a high quality of life and safety in the city. There are many museums, lush parks, a thriving music scene, fresh, handmade foods, and a year-found temperate climate. And you’d feel right at home among many other foreign ‘digital nomads’ who can be found in cafes and parks, laptops open.
Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal’s capital city has a relatively low cost of living, a relaxed atmosphere, and a large American expat population. Portugal ranked among the top five countries for expats; 84 percent of people who moved to the country from overseas were satisfied. One of Europe’s oldest cities, Lisbon has many historical sites, local street music, museums, and one of the largest parks in Europe.
Madrid, Spain
Madrid is an excellent city for foreign workers. It has both large multinational businesses and foreign investments. Expats can find jobs in IT, skilled trades, tourism, teaching, and IT.
Spain’s commercial and political capital, Madrid is an international city with a Latin slant. There are great restaurants, lively bars, and many art galleries.
Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand’s capital city is known for towering skyscrapers and ancient temples. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, Bangkok is also home to thousands of expats who enjoy its low cost of living, strong economy, vibrant culture, and the warmth and laid-back lifestyle of the Thai people.
Choosing the right city for you to move to requires extensive research and reflection. The choices are many; you just have to take the time to consider your options. It may take some trial and error before you come upon the perfect destination.
We hope you found this post, Top 6 Cities to Move to in 2023, useful. Be sure to check out our post, Tips You Must Know When Moving Out of State for more great information. Did we mention relocating to Canada? By the way, Fort Lauderdale FL is a place to consider, just mentioning..
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