South Carolina Leads Nation in Gen Z Migration Gains

South Carolina is drawing more young adults than any other state in the country, topping all destinations for Gen Z interstate migration in 2024, Fox News reported.

Based on a LendingTree study, the Palmetto State experienced a net increase of 22,843 Gen Z adults relocating from other states throughout 2024. The study defines Gen Z as adults ages 18 to 27.

LendingTree chief consumer finance analyst Matt Schulz told Fox News Digital that affordability and job prospects help explain the state’s appeal. South Carolina’s proximity to Charlotte gives young adults access to a growing job market while offering a less expensive place to live.

Gen Z is at the most mobile time of their lives, and they’re looking for a place where they can live affordably, where there are decent jobs and good opportunity.

California recorded the largest net loss of Gen Z residents at 58,109, while Texas emerged as the most popular destination for those leaving, drawing 19,287 former California residents. Schulz noted that California, New Jersey, and New York posted some of the largest net losses, whereas South Carolina, Missouri, Tennessee, and Texas posted net gains.

Young adults are prioritizing career options alongside a lifestyle they can afford. Schulz explained that the demographic is ultimately looking for job opportunities and the best place to launch a career while maintaining purchasing power.

IRS figures highlighted in a prior Fox News Digital report indicate that between 2022 and 2023, South Carolina welcomed upwards of 59,000 new inhabitants from outside the state, importing approximately $4.1 billion in earnings. While Texas and Florida drew more newcomers overall, South Carolina experienced the nation’s largest per-capita net gain, and Census Bureau data shows the state grew faster than any other relative to its size.

The movement of young workers affects regional economies as these individuals enter the workforce, establish households, and make large-scale purchases.

These are the future leaders of your country and the future business owners and parents. The future of our economy depends a lot on what Gen Z does, whether it’s the housing market or auto loans or starting small businesses.