Remote work has allowed people to live wherever they choose, no longer tied to urban and suburban areas to be close to their jobs. High urban and suburban home prices and the availability of remote work had Americans looking for more affordable cities that offer a good quality of life.
The numbers tell a remarkable story of transformation. Between 2020 and spring 2024, two-thirds of population growth for those aged 25 to 44 occurred in areas with fewer than 1 million residents or rural counties. These aren’t just statistics – they represent millions of Americans trading expensive city apartments for mountain views, ocean breezes, and genuine community connections. Let’s explore eight stunning destinations where people are discovering that sometimes, less really is more.
Stowe, Vermont: Mountain Magic and Maple Syrup Dreams
Nestled in the shadow of Mount Mansfield, Stowe is a true gem among the stunning peaks of the Green Mountains. This charming Vermont town has become a magnet for those seeking four-season beauty and small-town authenticity. Stowe is the gateway to Mount Mansfield, the state’s highest peak, and we can clearly see why this is one of the best places to visit during the Autumn.
The town offers something magical year-round. Stowe’s proximity to the mountains means it offers endless opportunities for nature lovers to enjoy hiking trails, biking, and cross-country skiing adventures, so you can enjoy the outdoors any time of the year. Around town, you have unique shops and family-owned restaurants, and the architecture of church steeples and colonial-style houses bursting through foliage dense with reds, oranges, and yellows.
Stowe is a quaint little town with a huge heart and an even bigger tourism trade. For outdoor enthusiasts looking for a big adventure, Stowe should be at the top of your list. The combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and Vermont’s legendary hospitality creates an irresistible package for city dwellers seeking change.
The Carolinas: Where Southern Charm Meets Modern Opportunity
The influx of 139,526 new residents from 2022 to 2023 highlights North Carolina’s growing appeal. Many are drawn to the state for its affordable homes, good job market, and lower tax rates.
South Carolina isn’t far behind in this regional renaissance. Since 2023, South Carolina has dominated interstate move searches. This year ,there are 2.05 newcomers looking to move to the Palmetto state for every resident seeking an exit. 2024 marks the second year in a row that South Carolina has ranked as the top move-to state. The combination of coastal beauty, reasonable living costs, and growing job markets makes both Carolinas irresistible to those seeking simpler living.
Whitefish, Montana: Gateway to Glacier Country
Whitefish really stands out in Montana, and the level of beauty you will find here is simply mind-numbing. Once you’re through allowing yourself to be bedazzled by the sights and sounds of nature, there is a lot to do as well. Just outside of Glacier National Park is Whitefish, Montana. During the fall, visitors couldn’t get over the views of Big Mountain and the Whitefish Mountain Resort from downtown.
The town perfectly balances outdoor adventure with small-town charm. Skiing, hiking, tlacier National Park, mountaineering, mountain biking, camping, and snowboarding are all predominant activities in the area. If you get tired of the scenery (you won’t), you can retire indoors to the Montana Brewery and taste some of the finest beers and wines in the region. You can go on cart rides pulled by gigantic Clydesdale horses or visit the Wild Coffee Company for a wake-me-up and a delicious breakfast.
What makes Whitefish special isn’t just the scenery – it’s the community. There are art galleries, small theaters, and many in-town activities to participate in. There are local brick-and-mortar shops where you can find pottery, jewelry, candy, and huckleberry-infused goodies like soaps and jams. This combination of natural grandeur and authentic community living represents exactly what many Americans are seeking.
Tennessee’s Music and Mountain Appeal
Young professionals are particularly drawn to Tennessee due to its expanding job market, vibrant cities such as Nashville and Knoxville, and affordable living costs, complemented by a rich cultural scene and natural beauty. Tennessee isn’t far behind with four cities showing up in the ranks, making it one of the most popular states to move to – and one to continue to watch.
Nashville has transformed from just a music town into a technology and healthcare hub. Tennessee, with its sprawling rural areas and vibrant music scene headquartered in Nashville, offers plenty of variety for newcomers to the state. Nashville has also become a hotspot for healthcare and tech startups, resulting in an increase of professionals in the area. The state’s appeal goes beyond just the big cities though.
Tennessee has also seen an influx of new residents, attracted by its mild climate, affordable housing, and vibrant music scene. Tennessee is also gaining traction as a relocation de, destination, with Nashville leading the charge. Known for its vibrant music scene and cultural attractions, Tennessee offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. The slightly lower cost of living, lack of personal income tax, and lower population density of Tennessee are enough to sway prospective movers toward the Smoky Mountain State.
Wallace, Idaho: A Historic Gem in the Silver Valley
The entire town of Wallace, Idaho, is on the National Historic Register. This 1884 mining town, nicknamed “the center of the universe,” offers historical sites, museums and outdoor adventures that include the Rails to Trails Hall of Fame Route of the Hiawatha bike trail, the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes and the Pulaski Tunnel Trail.
This tiny mountain town perfectly captures what many Americans are seeking – authentic history combined with outdoor adventure. The town’s nickname isn’t just whimsy; it reflects the genuine pride residents take in their community. Wallace offers the kind of walkable downtown and rich local culture that’s become increasingly rare in modern America.
What makes Wallace particularly appealing is its accessibility to outdoor recreation while maintaining small-town affordability. The historic preservation efforts mean you’re not just moving to a beautiful place – you’re becoming part of a living piece of American history. For those seeking authenticity over pretense, Wallace represents small-town America at its finest.
Port Clyde, Maine: Coastal Simplicity
Port Clyde is the southernmost settlement on the St. George peninsula in central Maine. In the 19th century, Port Clyde became a busy port with granite quarries, tide mills for sawing timber, and shipbuilding and fish canning businesses. Today, the area’s quiet location attracts artists and writers.
The town’s most famous landmark connects it to Hollywood history. One of its most notable attractions is the Marshall Point Lighthouse. You may remember it as one of the most beautiful scenes during Forrest Gump’s cross-country run in the movie, “Forrest Gump”. This lighthouse isn’t just a tourist attraction – it represents the enduring appeal of Maine’s rugged coastline and maritime heritage.
Port Clyde offers something that’s become precious in our hyper-connected world: genuine quiet and solitude. The town’s evolution from industrial port to artist’s haven reflects a broader American trend toward valuing creativity, natural beauty, and authentic community over pure economic opportunity.