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RESEARCH BRIEFING
06 May 2026

Boom in Carolina migration driven by job opportunities, affordability, and retirees in the US

Growth is concentrating in major metros, boosting spending but widening regional gaps.

The Carolinas are experiencing significant population growth, driven by job opportunities, affordability, and an appealing lifestyle. North Carolina leads the nation in net domestic migration, surpassing Texas, while South Carolina also attracts a steady influx of new residents.

Key cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham are at the forefront of this trend, drawing young professionals and retirees alike. Charlotte’s financial services sector and the Research Triangle’s academic institutions are pivotal in creating diverse job opportunities, with Charlotte alone seeing a net migration of 225,500 people over the past five years. The Carolinas are projected to account for 12% of all net migration in the US from 2021 to 2025.

As the population expands, consumer spending is expected to grow, particularly in coastal metros like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island. However, disparities in economic performance between affluent urban areas and smaller towns are likely to persist, reflecting broader national trends.

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