If it feels like more of your friends are packing up, or showing up, with a moving truck lately, you’re not imagining things. Oregon has been on the move.
According to the 2024 United Van Lines National Movers Study, Oregon saw nearly equal numbers of people arriving and leaving last year. We’re right in the middle of a broader national migration shift and the reasons behind the moves reveal what people are prioritizing now and why Oregon continues to hold a special place in so many hearts.
Why some are leaving
For those heading out, the motivation is often tied to money, lifestyle, and personal connection. Rising housing costs especially in urban centers like Portland have pushed many to explore places where their dollar stretches further.
The study shows that retirement, proximity to family, and lifestyle changes were among the top reasons people moved in 2024. Remote work has only accelerated this trend, making it easier for folks to choose sunshine over gray skies, or a bigger yard over a city condo. Time will tell if the trends of getting back to the office have a reverse effect.
States like Idaho, Arizona, and Texas top the list for outbound Oregonians. Idaho ranked number one in the country for inbound moves, thanks to its affordability, open space, and proximity to Oregon. Arizona also climbed into the top 10, driven by warm weather and retiree-friendly communities.
While some are leaving for lower taxes or more space, many are simply shifting toward a lifestyle that aligns better with their current phase of life.
Why some are moving in
On the flip side, Oregon continues to be a place people are choosing for a lifestyle that blends access to nature with creativity, community, culture. Ranked #8 as an inbound state, it’s still drawing in new residents who are chasing more than just a place to live, they’re looking for a certain vibe.
And it’s not just about Portland anymore. People are settling across the state, with each area offering its own flavor:
- Bend brings high-desert beauty, top-tier outdoor access, a top-ranked food and beverage scene, and a strong sense of community. Expect home prices here to reflect its growing popularity, with the median home hovering around $775,000, though prices can climb quickly for homes near the river or with Cascade views.
- Eugene combines natural beauty, artistic flair, and a lively college-town spirit. It’s a favorite for those who love culture and outdoor recreation with a little grit and edge. Homes here average around $525,000, offering a blend of historic charm and newer developments near the University of Oregon and beyond.
- Salem is earning new attention for its affordability, ease of living, and emerging food and wine scene. As the state capital, it’s no longer just for government workers home prices average a more accessible $450,000, making it a favorite for first-time buyers and those seeking more space.
- Medford offers sunshine, space, and a slower pace surrounded by vineyards and mountains. With a median home price around $435,000, this region offers a mix of relaxed living and scenic beauty that’s hard to beat, especially for those craving four seasons without the city rush.
…and then they return
Not everyone who leaves stays gone. Census data shows a consistent number of people are moving back to Oregon after living elsewhere. In fact, one in every six people who moved into Oregon in recent years was born here, and one in eight California residents relocating to Oregon originally came from here too.
The return may not make headlines, but it’s meaningful. For those who come back, it’s rarely about housing prices or job offers. It’s about rediscovering what makes our beautiful region feel like home. The slower pace. The creative spirit. The people who value connection and community. It’s about the moss-covered trails, the corner coffee shops, the way things just feel a little more grounded.
Thinking about a move?
If you’ve been thinking about making a change, ask yourself what matters most. Is it space? Budget? Connection? Nature? Walkability? A sense of calm? A sense of belonging?
Whether it’s across town or across the country this is a moment worth paying attention to, and if you see yourself here or somewhere else reach out anytime, we are here to help.