Regional Guides

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. 

Southwest

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.

Southwest Cost of Living

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Moving to Austin

Austin, Texas is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan cities in the US.

Austin

Dallas, Texas

Moving to Dallas

Dallas is one of the country's most exciting cities, particularly for young professionals looking to start their career on the right foot.

Dallas

San Antonio, TX Riverwalk

Moving to San Antonio

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.

San Antonio

Houston, TX skyline

Moving to Houston

Houston is known for its compact downtown area, which offers an excellent variety of museums, restaurants, and entertainment attractions.

Houston

Tucson, Arizona landscape

Moving to Tucson

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.

Tucson

Scottsdale, Arizona landscape

Moving to Scottsdale

The Scottsdale, Arizona area is known for its many attractions, an abundance of outdoor activities, and a relaxed and fun-filled atmosphere.

Scottsdale

Phoenix, Arizona landscape

Moving to Phoenix

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.

Phoenix

Hot air balloons

Moving to Albuquerque

This southwestern gem offers gorgeous mountain views, vibrant festivals, a great food scene, and so much more!

Albuquerque

Building in El Paso, TX

Moving to El Paso

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.

El Paso

Road in Arizona

Moving to Flagstaff

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.

Flagstaff

Field of Texas Bluebonnet

Moving to Waco

Located in the heart of Texas, Waco is a flourishing city with a vibrant downtown, a thriving job market, delectable cuisine, and exciting attractions

Waco

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Moving to Henderson

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.

Henderson

Prescott, AZ

Moving to Prescott

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

Prescott

Southeast

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.

Southeast Cost of Living Guide

Nashville, TN skyline

Moving to Nashville

Nashville is known for its popular tourist attractions, an abundance of job opportunities, and its active nightlife.

Nashville

Orlando, FL

Moving to Orlando

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.

Orlando

Raleigh, North Carolina

Moving to Raleigh

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.

Raleigh

Charlotte, North Carolina

Moving to Charlotte

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.

Charlotte

Historic house in Charleston, SC

Moving to Charleston

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.

Charleston

Miamia

Moving to Miami

People from all over the world flock to Miami to take advantage of the city’s sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and incredible culture.

Miami

Atlanta, Georgia skyline

Moving to Atlanta

Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing, most vibrant metropolises in the entire country.

Atlanta

Moving to Fort Lauderdale

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.

Fort Lauderdale

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Moving to Chattanooga

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.

Chattanooga

Tampa, FL

Best Places to Live in Tampa

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.

Tampa

Busy street in New Orleans, LA

Moving to New Orleans

Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-renowned cuisine, New Orleans is a top destination for young professionals and families.

New Orleans

Mountains outside Asheville, North Carolina

Moving to Asheville

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is one of the most charming cities on the East Coast.

Asheville

Trees in Savannah, GA

Moving to Savannah

Rich in history and culture, there is so much to explore in Georgia’s oldest city.

Savannah

House in South Carolina

Moving to Columbia

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.

Columbia

Myrtle Beach

Moving to Myrtle Beach

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.

Myrtle Beach

Main Street Bridge in Jacksonville, Florida

Moving to Jacksonville

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.

Jacksonville

bird-flying-over-water

Moving to Gainesville

Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is a bustling college town combined with unique urban and suburban living.

Gainesville

Greensboro, North Carolina

Moving to Greensboro

Located in the heart of North Carolina, Greensboro offers the perfect blend of urban living and Southern charm.

Greensboro

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Moving to Little Rock

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.

Little Rock

Kentucky countryside

Moving to Lexington

Lexington, Kentucky, is known for its beautiful scenery, world-renowned historical sites, delicious bourbon, and exciting horse races.

Lexington

Naples, FL

Moving to Naples

Naples, Florida offers sunny weather, stunning beaches, world-class golf, vibrant arts, and a growing economy.

Naples

Moving to Athens

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.

Athens

Moving to Augusta

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.

Augusta

Moving to Charlottesville

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.

Charlottesville

Moving to Durham

Incredible job opportunities, deeply rooted communities, and exciting attractions are just some of the many reasons Durham attracts so many people.

Durham

Moving to Daytona Beach

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.

Daytona Beach

Moving to Clearwater

Nationally recognized as being the #1 beach in the country, Clearwater, Florida has everything you would want in a hometown.

Clearwater

Moving to Mobile

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.

Mobile

Moving to Fort Myers

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.

Fort Myers

Moving to Birmingham

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.

Birmingham

Moving to Louisville

If you’ve never considered living in Louisville, here are a few advantages to life in the River City.

Louisville

Northwest

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.

Northwest Cost of Living Guide

Billings, Montana

Moving to Montana

Montana has become a popular destination for both Americans and international residents during these pandemic times.

Montana

Mountain in Washington state

Best Places to Live in Washington State

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.

Washington

Sign that reads Portland Oregon

Moving to Portland

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.

Portland

Seattle, Washington skyline

Moving to Seattle

A vibrant downtown region and friendly suburbs make Seattle, Washington, one of the most desirable locations in the United States.

Seattle

Pine trees and mountains

Moving to Bend

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.

Bend

boise-idaho-state-capitol-building

Moving to Boise

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.

Boise

Olympia, WA

Moving to Olympia

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.

Olympia

Moving to Bellingham

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.

Bellingham

Moving to Salem

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.

Salem

Moving to Spokane

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.

Spokane

Moving to Tacoma

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.

Tacoma

Moving to Billings

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.

Billings

Moving to Moving to Eugene

Located in western Oregon, Eugene is a beautiful city known for its stunning scenery, outdoor recreation, and commitment to the arts.

Eugene

Northeast

Boston, MA skyline

Moving to Boston

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.

Boston

New York City skyline

Moving to New York City

Whether a job opportunity is prompting your move, or you are drawn to the excitement and entertainment, New York City has what you seek.

New York City

Bronze statue of William Penn atop City Hall in Philadelphia

Moving to Philadelphia

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.

Philadelphia

Aerial view of Washington DC

Moving to Washington D.C.

Attracting both American and international tourists, Washington D.C. is known for tourism, though it is also an exciting place to call home.

Washington DC

Baltimore City Hall

Moving to Baltimore

Located along the Chesapeake Bay, Baltimore is the largest city in Maryland and one of the best places to live in the state.

Baltimore

Brooklyn Bridge

Moving to Brooklyn

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.

Brooklyn

chicken-wings

Moving to Buffalo

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.

Buffalo

vermont-country-road

Moving to Burlington

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.

Burlington

High Falls in Rochester, NY

Moving to Rochester

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.

Rochester

Midwest

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.

Midwest Cost of Living Guide

Minneapolis, Minnesota skyline

Moving to Minnesota

Whether you prefer the bustle of city life or the peace and serenity of rural living, Minnesota has much to offer.

Minnesota

Street at night in Minneapolis, MN

Moving to Minneapolis

The midwestern city of Minneapolis has everything you want from a big city, along with the friendliness and charm of a small town.

Minneapolis

Chicago, IL skyline

Living in Chicago

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.

Chicago

Chicago Skyline

Moving to Chicago

Moving to Chicago can open new opportunities for you. Learn everything you need to know before moving to Chicago.

Moving to Chicago

Aerial view of Ann Arbor, MI

Living in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, Michigan is a college town with a creative spirit. No matter where you look, you’ll find new ideas, opportunities, and experiences.

Ann Arbor

Moving to Madison, Wisconsin

Moving to Madison

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.

Madison

Mt. Rushmore

Moving to Rapid City

Rapid City is the second largest city in South Dakota and an excellent place to call home.

Rapid City

Detroit, MI

Moving to Detroit

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.

Detroit:

Indianapolis, IN skyline at night

Moving to Indianapolis

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.

Indianapolis

Kansas City skyline

Moving to Kansas City

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.

Kansas City

Aerial view of Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge in Des Moines

Moving to Des Moines

Perfect for young professionals, families, and retirees, Des Moines consistently ranks high in surveys, including Best Places to Live.

Des Moines

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Moving to Milwaukee

Situated on the western shore of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee offers picturesque waterfront views and easy access to outdoor recreation.

Milwaukee

Moving to Lincoln

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.

Lincoln

Moving to Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is a rapidly growing city thanks to its affordable cost of living, low crime, family-friendly activities, and thriving economy.

Oklahoma City

Moving to Grand Rapids

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.

Grand Rapids

Moving to Fort Wayne

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.

Fort Wayne

Moving to Fort Worth

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.

Fort Worth

Moving to Omaha

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!

Omaha

West/Rockies

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.

West/Rockies Cost of Living

Mountains in Colorado

Best Places to Live in Colorado

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

Colorado Springs

Moving to Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is one of the most beautiful cities in the country and one of the best places to live in Colorado.

Colorado Springs

Las Vegas skyline

Living in Las Vegas

Discover why this Nevada hot spot is a a fantastic place to visit and call home.

Las Vegas

Denver, Colorado skyline

Living in Denver

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.

Denver

San Francisco neighborhood

Moving to San Francisco

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.

San Francisco

Beach houses in Los Angeles, California

Moving to Los Angeles

LA has a diverse and eclectic mix of neighborhoods, cultures, and natural beauty that has something to offer for all kinds of different people.

Los Angeles

Beach houses in San Diego, California

Moving to San Diego

San Diego is known for its abundant sunshine, amazing job opportunities, and an active nightlife.

San Diego

Sacramento, CA

Moving to Sacramento

Renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, thriving economy, delicious food, and exciting things to do, Sacramento has plenty to offer young professionals and families.

Sacramento

Salt Lake City, UT

Moving to Salt Lake City

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.

Salt Lake City

Father and son wearing Colorado hats

Moving to Fort Collins

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.

Fort Collins

boulder-colorado

Moving to Boulder

College students, recent graduates, and established professionals are all drawn to Boulder thanks to its active atmosphere and easy access to the outdoors.

Boulder

Moving to Grand Junction

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.

Grand Junction

Moving to Missoula

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.

Missoula

International Moving Guides

Auckland New Zealand

7 Reasons to Consider Moving to Auckland, New Zealand

In case you aren’t familiar with the City of Sails, here are seven reasons you should consider moving to Auckland, New Zealand.

Auckland

Bold outline map showcasing the United Kingdom's geography

Moving to England

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.

England

Germany

Moving to Germany

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.

Germany

Streets of Barcelona, Spain

Moving to Spain

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.

Spain

Mountains in New Zealand

Moving to New Zealand

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.

New Zealand

Moving Guides and Helpful Information