Although the nation is experiencing a significant mortgage and housing crisis, there’s no doubt that Americans are still on the move. Mayflower Transit, the most recognized name in moving for more than 80 years, just released its 2008 Customer Relocation Study, which tracks why people are relocating, as well as the most (and least) popular destinations.
Top reasons for moving
According to Mayflower’s relocation study, work factors continue to be the driving force behind moving decisions. More than 50 percent of respondents moved for a job in 2008: 37.1 percent of customers relocated for a new job, while 13.2 percent moved due to a company transfer. Relocating for retirement continues to drop as only 28.6 percent moved after retiring, compared to 30.4 percent in 2007 and 31.8 percent in 2006. In addition, 21.1 percent of customers moved because of health or personal reasons.
Slightly less than half of all respondents (44 percent) indicated that they have only moved once in their lives. Approximately, 29 percent have moved twice and 16.3 percent have moved three times.
Most popular states for relocation
Washington, D.C., continues to be a popular destination, with 68.4 percent of inbound moves in that area. Kentucky (62.5 percent), Vermont (62.5 percent) and Nevada (61.7 percent) were identified as popular destinations, with inbound rates of at least 60 percent
in each state. South Carolina (59.5 percent) and North Carolina (56 percent) also carried over from last year as high inbound states.
Who’s packing up and leaving?
In contrast, Nebraska ranked as the top state to leave, with 64.1 percent of outbound moves in the area. Michigan was a close second, with 62.9 percent of outbound moves. New Jersey (59.8 percent) and North Dakota (59.2 percent) also ranked as high outbound states.
About the 2008 Customer Relocation Study
The relocation data is based on the 75,828 interstate household moves handled by Mayflower among the 48 contiguous states, as well as Washington, D.C., Alaska and Canada, from January through August 2008. Other information is based on responses to Mayflower’s Customer Service Survey.
About Mayflower Transit
Mayflower Transit, founded in 1927, is one of the nation’s oldest and largest van lines and transports household goods, electronic equipment, trade show exhibits and displays, works of art, and specialized freight utilizing a network of 700 affiliated agents throughout the United States and around the world. Mayflower’s headquarters are located in suburban St. Louis, Mo. Further information about the company is available at www.mayflower.com.
Editor’s Note: If you are interested in specific information for your area or an interview, please contact Jennifer Bonham at 636-349-2508 or jennifer_bonham@unigroupinc.com or Maya Lunnemann at 314-469-3500 or mlunnemann@standingpr.com.
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