Moving into a new area can be quite the experience, and it’s important to become familiar with not only the city or town you will come to call home, but the region it resides in as well. While cities across the nation have their own qualities that make them unique, the distinct regions they’re found in help tie these communities together and give them a shared identity with each other in their part of the country. In our Regional Guides, we cover the similarities and differences among the housing markets in prominent regions of the United States to give you a better idea of what prices, qualities, and demographics to expect when shopping around for a new home. Don't for get to check out our How to Move to a New State Guide.
The Southwest region of the United States is mainly made up of states that have a dry, arid climate. Major cities within this region tend to have industries that are focused on energy production and transport. We have information on the Southwestern states and their demographic background to show you how the cost of living and real estate market varies across the region.
Dallas is one of the country's most exciting cities, particularly for young professionals looking to start their career on the right foot.
San Antonio is known as being one of the most historic places in the state of Texas, featuring a melting pot of cultures, and an abundance of breathtaking scenery.
Houston is known for its compact downtown area, which offers an excellent variety of museums, restaurants, and entertainment attractions.
If you're looking for a desert landscape, a thriving metropolis, and the culture and excitement of living near a university, Tucson might be a great place for you to call home.
The Scottsdale, Arizona area is known for its many attractions, an abundance of outdoor activities, and a relaxed and fun-filled atmosphere.
Phoenix is the capital of Arizona and the most populous city in the state. This sprawling metropolitan area is known for its warm temperatures and year-round sunshine.
This southwestern gem offers gorgeous mountain views, vibrant festivals, a great food scene, and so much more!
Known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, affordable housing, sunny weather, and great quality of life, El Paso attracts a number of college students, young professionals, and couples.
Surrounded by scenic mountain views and home to the world’s largest contiguous Ponderosa Pine forest, Flagstaff is a beautiful city and perfect for those who love the outdoors.
Located in the heart of Texas, Waco is a flourishing city with a vibrant downtown, a thriving job market, delectable cuisine, and exciting attractions
Located about 16 miles from the Las Vegas Strip is the wonderful city of Henderson, Nevada. With a population of just over 300,000, it offers the perfect blend of an exciting metropolis along with the feel of a cozy suburb.
Located just 90 miles from Phoenix and Scottsdale, many residents prefer the higher altitude location of Prescott, which produces temperatures about 10 degrees cooler than other Southern Arizona locations
The Southeast region of the United States is comprised of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Recent reports for each state show that the economy is stable, and unemployment rates are relatively unchanged for the region.
Nashville is known for its popular tourist attractions, an abundance of job opportunities, and its active nightlife.
There is more to Orlando than just rides and attractions. In fact, there are tons of amenities that make it an ideal place to call home.
Whether you’re a young professional, raising a family, or a retiree, you will quickly discover how exciting it is to work, live, and play in Raleigh and its surrounding suburbs.
From its booming foodie scene to the variety of activities to the gorgeous weather, Charlotte, North Carolina is a great place to work and play.
From the historic church steeples and cobblestone streets to the horse-drawn carriages and beautiful palm trees, there are countless reasons to fall in love with Charleston.
People from all over the world flock to Miami to take advantage of the city’s sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and incredible culture.
Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing, most vibrant metropolises in the entire country.
Our research of migration patterns across America indicates the population growth in and around Fort Lauderdale has continued to outpace most of its traditional competitors.
Chattanooga is popular among outdoor fans, but the city is also tempting to job seekers looking to profit from the growing job market and high quality of life.
Tampa, a city in Tampa Bay that sits at the heart of Florida's Gulf Coast, remains among the few destinations with different cultural sites, warm weather, and extraordinary hospitality in the United States.
Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-renowned cuisine, New Orleans is a top destination for young professionals and families.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is one of the most charming cities on the East Coast.
Rich in history and culture, there is so much to explore in Georgia’s oldest city.
Columbia is more than just the capital of South Carolina. Located just two hours from the coast, this southern city offers an incredible list of amenities as well as a burgeoning downtown area.
Once a quiet seaside community, Myrtle Beach is now one of the fastest growing cities in the United States ‒ an attractive place for both families and retirees.
Whether you are relocating for a job or just ready to enjoy some warm weather, living in Jacksonville, FL is like being on vacation all year round.
Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is a bustling college town combined with unique urban and suburban living.
Located in the heart of North Carolina, Greensboro offers the perfect blend of urban living and Southern charm.
Little Rock is the capital of Arkansas and home to just over 200,000 residents. Here, you will be surrounded by beautiful scenery, friendly people, and many things to do.
Lexington, Kentucky, is known for its beautiful scenery, world-renowned historical sites, delicious bourbon, and exciting horse races.
Naples, Florida offers sunny weather, stunning beaches, world-class golf, vibrant arts, and a growing economy.
Nestled in Northeast Georgia sits the beautiful city of Athens. It may not have the same “big city energy” as its neighbor, Atlanta, but don’t let that fool you.
Augusta is the second largest city in Georgia and is a picturesque city nestled on the banks of the Savannah River. It is known all over the world as being the home of the annual Master’s Golf Tournament.
Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville is a charming city nestled in Central Virginia. Though it may be smaller in size, it has all the amenities you would expect in a big city.
Incredible job opportunities, deeply rooted communities, and exciting attractions are just some of the many reasons Durham attracts so many people.
Imagine living in a sun-soaked city with 23 miles of white, sandy beaches. Situated on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, Daytona Beach is perfect for couples, families, and retirees alike.
Nationally recognized as being the #1 beach in the country, Clearwater, Florida has everything you would want in a hometown.
Known as the “Gateway to the Gulf,” Mobile is where Alabama meets the Gulf of Mexico, and it is the main entry point to the beach.
Nestled along the Florida Gulf Coast, Fort Myers is both a popular tourist destination and an excellent place to live. Here, you will find affordable housing, excellent weather, beach access, fantastic restaurants, and plenty of great neighborhoods.
Birmingham, Alabama, is ranked among the best places to live in the U.S., and for good reason. The Magic City is packed with excellent restaurants, entertainment, sports, music, and plenty of job opportunities.
If you’ve never considered living in Louisville, here are a few advantages to life in the River City.
The Northwest region of the United States includes Washington, Oregon, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana and Alaska. From snow capped mountains to meadow valleys, the region has it all. Just as diverse as their landscape, however, is its cost of living.
Montana has become a popular destination for both Americans and international residents during these pandemic times.
There are great places to live all over the United States but there are several reasons why Washington State should be somewhere you definitely consider.
Portland is the largest city in Oregon. The city is known for its parks, eco-friendly way of life, thriving arts scene, coffeehouses, and microbreweries.
A vibrant downtown region and friendly suburbs make Seattle, Washington, one of the most desirable locations in the United States.
Situated along the banks of the Deschutes River near the eastern edge of the Cascade Mountain Range, Bend, OR is as picturesque as you would imagine.
Boise is the capital and most populous city in Idaho, but despite its size, it still has a small-town feel and relaxed way of life.
Olympia is the capital city of Washington State and one of the smallest capitals in America by population. This modest-sized city is known for being the economic center of South Puget Sound.
Ranked as one of the best places to live in America for mid-size cities, Bellingham is a rapidly growing city in Washington. Located about 90 miles outside of Seattle, is where the Washington coastline and the Canadian border meet.
Salem, Oregon, is a beautiful and vibrant city in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Located just 47 miles south of Portland, Salem offers the charm of small-town living and easy access to big-city amenities.
Located in Eastern Washington State, Spokane is a beautiful city that offers a range of amenities, including outstanding recreational opportunities, affordable housing, and an abundance of educational offerings.
Have you always wanted to live in the Pacific Northwest, but you don’t want to pay the sky-high prices? Tacoma, Washington, offers stunning natural beauty, a mild climate, and a diverse culture at a fraction of the cost of nearby Seattle.
As the largest community in Montana, Billings offers the perfect balance of big-city amenities and small-town charm. The city boasts a strong economy, an excellent family-friendly quality of life, and some of the most beautiful backcountry in the nation.
Located in western Oregon, Eugene is a beautiful city known for its stunning scenery, outdoor recreation, and commitment to the arts.
Boston is one of the oldest towns and yet, one of the fastest-growing metro areas, especially in the tech, medical, and academic fields. The city and its neighborhoods consistently rank at the top of many 'best of' lists.
Whether a job opportunity is prompting your move, or you are drawn to the excitement and entertainment, New York City has what you seek.
This fun and exciting cosmopolitan city offers everything you would expect from a big city, along with a close-knit community feel that is reminiscent of a small town.
Attracting both American and international tourists, Washington D.C. is known for tourism, though it is also an exciting place to call home.
Located along the Chesapeake Bay, Baltimore is the largest city in Maryland and one of the best places to live in the state.
The most populous of the five boroughs, Brooklyn is known for its unique culture, brownstone lined streets, waterfront views, and of course…the famous Brooklyn Bridge.
Buffalo is located on the eastern side of Lake Erie near Niagara Falls and the Canadian Border. It is the second largest city in New York State, with more than one million residents.
Burlington, Vermont, is a beautiful, charming city nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain. With a population of over 43,000, Burlington is nicknamed the “Queen City” of Vermont.
Located on Lake Ontario in New York State, Rochester has beautiful attractions and peaceful outdoor settings. Nicknamed “The Flower City,” Rochester is known for its impressive history, educational resources, and industry leaders in manufacturing.
Hartford, CT offers historic charm, vibrant arts, affordable housing, and thriving industries, making it perfect for families, professionals, and adventurers.
Discover Pittsburgh’s affordable lifestyle, booming job market, top schools, rich culture, great food, and exciting nightlife—find out why it’s a great place to live!
The Midwest region of the United States is made up of the states in the central-north portion of the country. The largest cities in the Midwest are Chicago, Detroit and Indianapolis.
Whether you prefer the bustle of city life or the peace and serenity of rural living, Minnesota has much to offer.
The midwestern city of Minneapolis has everything you want from a big city, along with the friendliness and charm of a small town.
As the state's most populous city and the third most populous city in the nation, Chicago, IL is a dynamic place to call home.
Moving to Chicago can open new opportunities for you. Learn everything you need to know before moving to Chicago.
Ann Arbor, Michigan is a college town with a creative spirit. No matter where you look, you’ll find new ideas, opportunities, and experiences.
If you're looking for a great place to live, Madison, WI deserves a look. This beautiful city attracts dozens of entrepreneurs, job seekers, students, families, and retirees from all over the country.
Rapid City is the second largest city in South Dakota and an excellent place to call home.
Its robust business atmosphere, rich cultural diversity, countless recreational opportunities, and affordable cost of living make Detroit an ideal location for young singles, professionals, or families.
Not only is Indianapolis the capital of Indiana and the third largest city in the Midwest, but it is also home to top universities, world-class attractions, thrilling sports, and some of the friendliest people.
If you want the amenities of a big city with the charm of a small town, Kansas City might be just the place for you.
Perfect for young professionals, families, and retirees, Des Moines consistently ranks high in surveys, including Best Places to Live.
Situated on the western shore of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee offers picturesque waterfront views and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Lincoln is the capital of Nebraska and one of the most livable cities in America. The city has much to offer, including a robust economy, a strong housing market, and an affordable cost of living.
Oklahoma City is a rapidly growing city thanks to its affordable cost of living, low crime, family-friendly activities, and thriving economy.
Grand Rapids is the second largest city in Michigan and a wonderful place to call home. It is filled with amazing restaurants, breweries, outdoor activities, and a vibrant art scene.
Fort Wayne is a beautiful, friendly Midwestern city located in northeast Indiana. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, family-friendly community, and affordable cost of living, it has recently seen an influx of new residents.
Located in North Central Texas, Fort Worth is easily one of the fastest-growing cities in America. With a total population of 935,508 people, Fort Worth is the 5th largest city in Texas.
Discover why people love living in Omaha — friendly residents, low cost of living, resilient job market, great schools, farm-fresh food, top-notch steakhouses, and more!
The Western United States has an intrigue that has drawn visitors and settlers to the region's landscapes for hundreds of years. The region encompasses the majestic Rocky Mountains, the Pacific Ocean and the most diverse array of terrain in the country from sandy deserts to sub-tropical beaches and deciduous forests.
Colorado is one of the most varied and unique spots in the United States, but it's not just a beautiful place to live.
Colorado Springs is one of the most beautiful cities in the country and one of the best places to live in Colorado.
Discover why this Nevada hot spot is a a fantastic place to visit and call home.
Regularly voted as one of the country's best places to live, Denver has become a hot spot for Americans who enjoy the great outdoors.
With its thriving industries, vibrant neighborhoods, and vast cultural network, San Francisco attracts a diverse mix of residents which make it one of the nation's most fascinating cities.
LA has a diverse and eclectic mix of neighborhoods, cultures, and natural beauty that has something to offer for all kinds of different people.
San Diego is known for its abundant sunshine, amazing job opportunities, and an active nightlife.
Renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, thriving economy, delicious food, and exciting things to do, Sacramento has plenty to offer young professionals and families.
Salt Lake City is more than just the capital of Utah. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. thanks to its access to the outdoors and booming tech scene.
Whether you are looking for an abundance of outdoor activities, a great family-friendly environment, or an exciting social scene, Fort Collins has it all.
College students, recent graduates, and established professionals are all drawn to Boulder thanks to its active atmosphere and easy access to the outdoors.
Grand Junction, Colorado is a beautiful city nestled in the Grand Valley between Denver and Salt Lake City. This Western Colorado gem offers stunning scenery, plentiful job opportunities, and a friendly small-town vibe.
Known for its stunning natural beauty, Missoula, Montana is a wonderful place to call home. It is packed with untouched wilderness, making it an outdoor lover’s dream.
In case you aren’t familiar with the City of Sails, here are seven reasons you should consider moving to Auckland, New Zealand.
Migrating from the United States to England can be a relatively easy transition for those with highly-sought job skills. Learning the differences in culture and language will be the most challenging part of relocating.
When it comes to living in Germany, there are many benefits to making the move. These range from the country being an easy place to adapt to living in to amazing public transportation.
If you've visited Spain and fallen in love with it or are considering moving there for any other reason, here is everything you need to know about moving to Spain.
For such a small country, New Zealand has an astonishing number of distinctive features. There are rolling hills, rugged mountains, picturesque fjords, roaring waterfalls and even an active volcanic plateau.