Who’s Moving to Charlotte, North Carolina?

Jump Ahead To:

Charlotte, nicknamed the Queen City, rules when it comes to economic opportunities, affordability and overall quality of life. From its rich history to its rapidly evolving modern skyline, this North Carolina city has become a magnet for people who are looking for a fresh start. However, like any other metropolis, Charlotte sees its fair share of departures as well. Using data from the Census Flows Mapper, let’s dissect which cities are feeding into Charlotte’s growth and which cities are wooing its residents away.

But first, a word about sources. The Census Flows Mapper leverages American Community Survey (ACS) data. The survey is the primary source for detailed population and housing information about our nation. The Mapper provides ways to filter and view the data. Unless you’re an information nerd, it’s not the most fun site on the web, but the insights it yields after some prodding and poking are fascinating. We crunched the numbers, so you don’t have to.

The Top Cities People are Leaving to Move to Charlotte, NC

Roughly 113 people arrive in Charlotte every day, according to the most recent data from the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance. That works out to about 41,163 people moving to the region every year.

Overall, folks moving to Charlotte point to these benefits as the prime reasons for moving to Charlotte.

Economic opportunities – Charlotte is home to several Fortune 500 companies, predominantly in the banking sector
Affordability in comparison to other American cities – notably high-cost metros like New York, Miami, Los Angeles, which make up the bulk of people moving to Charlotte.
Quality of life – specifically its mix of urban amenities and green spaces –as the prime reasons for moving to Charlotte.

But motivations for moving from one city to another typically involve more than what the new city offers, though. Unless you’re relocating for a specific job opportunity or family reason, what your current city lacks is an equal persuader. Read on for further details about why people choose to leave a particular city and move to Charlotte.

Manhattan (New York City)

Manhattan, with its skyscrapers, diversity, and hustle-bustle, is exciting but can be overwhelming. The soaring living costs – the city now has the highest cost of living in the nation – is the primary motivator. This, coupled with the cramped spaces are pushing people to seek respite in cities like Charlotte that offer a better living standard, space, and a mix of urban and suburban lifestyles.

Los Angeles, California

LA’s glamor often gets overshadowed by its high living costs, traffic woes, and heavy competition for jobs and affordable living space. Charlotte’s promise of a balanced life, burgeoning job market, especially in the banking sector, and comparatively affordable housing make it a prime alternative to Los Angeles.

Chicago, Illinois

While the Windy City is culturally and economically rich, factors like extreme weather and economic disparities can be deterrents. Charlotte’s milder climate and growing job opportunities present a compelling case for moving Chicagoans who are looking for lower-stress city living.

Atlanta, Georgia

Even though Atlanta is a thriving metropolis in the South, the appeal of Charlotte lies in its booming banking sector, its cosmopolitan yet laid-back charm, and its rapid urban development while maintaining green spaces.

Miami, Florida

Miami’s tropical allure is undeniable, but for those seeking to escape the humid weather, high living costs, and seeking a balanced professional life, Charlotte is very appealing. And it’s not just Miami – folks from Tampa are moving to Charlotte too, primarily due to high costs of housing in the Tampa area.

Washington, DC

Cost of living (again), good local schools, less traffic (compared to DC’s notorious congestion) and Charlotte’s business incentives and skilled workforce are attractive to Washington DC’s entrepreneurs or businesses looking to relocate or expand.

Charlotte also draws people from elsewhere in the state – primarily smaller North Carolina metros like Asheville and Winston-Salem.

Where are Charlotte residents relocating?

People who are born and raised in Charlotte tend to stay in Charlotte. All the things that make the city so attractive to newcomers are equally compelling to long-term residents. But sometimes, you have to make a move. For folks in Charlotte, if they have to leave they tend to look for a place that’s just a little bit different than their hometown.

Dallas, Texas

Much like Charlotte, Dallas offers an evolving urban center, diversified job opportunities, and a similar cost of living. The switch could be for professional reasons or simply a change of scene within the same band of comfort.

Denver, Colorado

The appeal of the Rockies, a burgeoning tech industry, and a more laid-back, outdoorsy lifestyle might be calling Charlotte residents westward.

Nashville, Tennessee

Music City’s cultural scene, combined with its own economic growth and southern charm, resonates with Charlotte residents seeking a smaller but still vibrant city vibe.

Austin, Texas

Known for its tech boom, music festivals, and warm climate, Austin is drawing Charlotte residents looking for techie jobs, in a vibrant and youthful environment.

Raleigh, North Carolina

The state’s capital, just a few hours drive from Charlotte, offers its own set of perks. From tech jobs in the Research Triangle Park to top-tier universities, Raleigh might appeal to those wanting to stay in their home state but experience a different city vibe.

Often, personal factors like family ties, relationships, or educational opportunities play a significant role in moving decisions.

Looking to move to (or from) Charlotte?

Migration reflects a city’s evolution, anything that does not grow and change often fails to thrive. Charlotte seems to be doing a great job of holding on to the things that make the city great, while adapting to new ideas. The city leadership is aware of the impact that new residents can have on basic amenities and is looking at where investment is needed in infrastructure like transportation, education, and housing to support population growth.

As Charlotte continues to burgeon, it will both attract residents from other cities and bid goodbye to some. What remains consistent is the city’s charm, which will always pull people back, be it after years or generations.

If you’re heading to Charlotte, Bellhop can help you get there, with a smile on your face. We’ve spent a lot of time figuring out how to eliminate the hassles from the moving process. Moving from Charlotte? Whether it’s cross-country, in-state or a local Charlotte move, we can help you do that too!

We have long distance service options for moves of any size and budget. Options range from labor only service to our unique direct truck moves. We can help you with packing, storage, car shipping, junk removal and many other needs. And our flat rate pricing option ensures that you are not surprised by hidden fees on move day. Plus, our terrific customer support team is with you every step of the way. Tell us what you need, and we’ll do our best to find a way to make it happen.

Tyler Brown

Tyler has been with Bellhop since 2022. When not working on making moving experience awesome, Tyler enjoys biking through new cities all over the country, figuring out where his next meal is going to be, and fantasizing about where he might live next. He's currently in Richmond, Virginia.