In a surprising turn of events, a Northwest state has surged to the forefront of America’s migration trends, reshaping the landscape of relocation across the nation.

Oregon now stands as the most sought-after destination for individuals and families on the move, according to a recent migration report. As people reassess their living situations in response to economic fluctuations, the allure of the Beaver State has grown significantly.

Data from United Van Lines reveals that in 2025, a notable 65 percent of the company’s relocations involving Oregon were inbound. In other words, out of every 100 relocations to or from the state, 65 were people choosing to make Oregon their new home, while only 35 left.

This increase catapulted Oregon, known for its vibrant culture and as the birthplace of The Simpsons and Nike, to the top of the relocation rankings. This marks a significant leap from its previous position of eighth just a year prior.

The trend highlights a broader movement among Americans to flee some of the nation’s pricier locales in search of regions that promise a more appealing mix of affordability, employment opportunities, and overall quality of life.

The state offers no sales tax, strong public schools, walkable cities, and easy access to beaches, mountains, forests and cultural hubs — without the extreme housing costs seen in larger coastal metros. 

‘When you live in Oregon you wake up and see the mountains and they look close enough to touch. There is a beauty that makes Oregon unforgettable,’ local realtor Joe Robb tells Daily Mail. ‘It doesn’t try to be something it’s not. It’s welcoming. You get forests, rivers, the ocean and the pace of life is slower.’

The state has also become a major destination for job-seekers, with growth across tech, health care, manufacturing, forestry and agriculture. 

The appeal of Oregon, nicknamed the Beaver State, lies in many areas. It’s rich in arts and in nature. It’s also affordable, with no sales tax and high ranking public schools

The cherry trees in Salem at State Capitol Park blooming in spring. Salem is one of the more affordable areas of Oregon

Its technology sector is anchored in what is known as the ‘Silicon Forest’ — a cluster of tech firms centered around Portland and its suburbs, including Beaverton and Hillsboro.

Oregon also specializes in semiconductor and electronic component manufacturing, employing roughly six times more workers in the sector than the national average. 

Industry experts predict the state’s tech footprint could rival Silicon Valley even more closely over the next decade. 

Oregon has also led the nation in making wood products since 1938, and timber and forestry remain major industries in the state. 

Agriculture is also a key pillar, from vineyards in the Willamette Valley producing world-class wines to fruit, potato and farming operations across southern and eastern parts of the state.

At the metro level, the Eugene–Springfield area emerged as the strongest magnet of all. Eighty-five percent of United Van Lines moves involving the region were inbound, making it the top inbound metro area in the country.

Springfield offers a lower cost of living than other Oregon cities and is close to both Eugene and Portland.

‘In Springfield, you get the charm of a small town with the access of a growing city,’ Robb said. 

Sunrise in Portland Oregon. The state has become the most popular destination Americans are moving to for its affordable housing and better quality of life

Simpsons creator Matt Groening calls the state home and often takes inspiration from Portland’s culture and landmarks for the beloved show

Nike is based in Beaverton, Oregon. The company made its name with a tie up with six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan, pictured here launching a new Air Jordan in 2009

Billionaire Phil Knight transformed Portland into an athletic brand hub after co-founding Nike and is largely responsible for boosting the local economy

Eily Cummings, vice president of corporate communications at United Van Lines

Oregon’s appeal also extends into culture, creativity and brand power. 

The state is home to a long list of well-known names across entertainment, food and business.

Matt Groening, creator of The Simpsons, lives in Oregon and has frequently drawn inspiration from Portland’s culture and landmarks. 

Good Will Hunting director Gus Van Sant lives there, as does actress Carrie Brownstein, co-creator of Portlandia, a comedy series based on Portland’s laid-back culture. 

James Beard, founder of the prestigious James Beard Foundation and Awards, has traveled the world but calls Oregon home. 

Billionaire Phil Knight transformed Portland into an athletic brand hub after co-founding Nike and is largely responsible for boosting the local economy.

Housing in Oregon varies depending on where you want to live. 

The average home is $480,000 statewide, but is $525,000, in Multnomah County where Portland sits.

The scene from Mount Hood national forest. Mount Hood is Oregon’s crown jewel and is located just 45 minutes east of Portland

Bend, a popular hub for remote workers and outdoor enthusiasts, is more expensive. Homes there sell for around $650,000 on average, reflecting strong demand driven by access to trails, breweries and lifestyle amenities. 

Eight miles from downtown Portland sits Lake Oswego, which gives peaceful lake living with a 10-minute city commute. 

Homes here average around $900,000, making it one of Oregon’s priciest spots, but residents get treated to summer concerts in the park, farmers markets and regular art festivals.

At the more affordable end of the spectrum, Corvallis — home to Oregon State University — has a strong education- and research-driven job market, with average home prices around $450,000.