In the pursuit of affordable housing, millennials are making significant moves, both literally and figuratively. A recent survey by GOBankingRates reveals that 32% of millennials aged 25 to 44 relocated to a different state in the last two years in search of more states offering affordable housing.

Surprisingly, popular states like Arizona, Florida, North Carolina, and Texas are not the top contenders for these millennials. So, where are they heading?

4 Unexpected States Capturing the Attention of Millennial Homebuyers.

Nevada The Allure of Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada, has emerged as a hotspot for millennials seeking affordable housing. Ranked second by Redfin as the most popular destination for homebuyers in 2023, Las Vegas attracts those moving out of California due to its housing affordability.

Real estate agent Michael Vestuto notes that besides affordable housing, millennials are drawn to the city’s job opportunities and growth in industries like the movie, tech, and sports entertainment.

Tennessee Nashville’s Rise

Nashville, Tennessee, has not only secured a spot on Redfin’s top migration destinations list but claimed the number one position. The city is witnessing a surge in millennials, attracted not only by affordable housing but also by job opportunities.

Real estate agent Michael Oliveira reports a shift in clientele age, with the average dropping from 65 to 35. He attributes this trend to the city’s low cost of living, low taxes, affordable housing, and vibrant entertainment options.

Georgia Sunbelt States Appeal

Two Georgia cities, Sandy Springs and Savannah, earned spots in the top 20 cities for millennials in a 2023 SmartAsset study. Attracting 11,210 and 15,303 new millennial residents, respectively, these cities offer affordability and growth. Atlanta, though ranking lower, welcomed a significant 41,482 new millennial residents.

Kurt Carlton, co-founder of New Western, recommends exploring sunbelt states like Georgia for affordable housing, driven by strong job growth and a robust economy.

Ohio – Small Cities, Big Appeal

States with small to mid-size cities are gaining traction among millennials, especially those requiring a physical office presence. Ohio, with cities like Cleveland, Akron, and Cincinnati, offers attractive options. SmartAsset’s findings reveal substantial millennial migration, with 10,370 in Akron, 21,984 in Cincinnati, and 25,857 in Cleveland.

Suzanne Miller, founder of Empire State Properties, highlights the appeal of Ohio for millennials seeking a balance between work and lifestyle.

Conclusion

As millennials continue their quest for affordable housing, these four unexpected states—Nevada, Tennessee, Georgia, and Ohio—stand out as attractive destinations. Beyond affordability, factors like job opportunities, economic growth, and quality of life contribute to the appeal of these emerging hotspots. The millennial migration is reshaping the landscape, and these states are at the forefront of this transformative trend.