Gen Z is moving to this SC city more than most others in the US. Here’s where
Young adults have been moving to Columbia more than nearly all other U.S. cities, Census data shows.
Columbia ranked second among cities that gained the most new 18 to 24 year olds, currently referred to as Generation Z. The 2021 Census data, compiled in a report by Today’s Homeowner, shows that Columbia had a net gain of 11,640 Gen Z residents.
While Columbia saw among the most gains, the report shows that Gen Z has been bucking trends and moving more to cities in general than other generations. For instance, New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and Philadelphia all had net migration increases for Gen Z, despite seeing net decreases for all other generations.
The report notes that despite Columbia’s ability to attract younger movers, overall, both Gen Z and Millennials appear to be more interested in an area’s opportunities and dynamism rather than its value. Also, Millennials still seem to value lower home costs more than Gen Z.
“These trends among younger Americans make sense when considering where they are in life, likely looking to build career momentum or settle down into a family home,” the report states.
Meanwhile, the gains in Columbia migration isn’t too surprising, given that South Carolina has seen significant population gains overall compared to most other states.
According to more recent, but preliminary Census data, South Carolina was the third fastest-growing state in 2022. The Palmetto State’s population grew by 1.7% to a total of more than 5.28 million as of July 1. Only the states of Florida at 1.9% and Idaho at 1.8% had faster growth by percentage.
Here are the 10 U.S. cities Gen Z is moving to the most.
Washington D.C. — 12,912
Columbia, SC — 11,640
Boston, MA — 10,271
Atlanta, GA — 7,756
Austin, TX — 6,760
Nashville, TN — 6,676
Syracuse, NY — 6,549
Philadelphia, PA — 6,249
Madison, WI — 5,899
Tampa, FL — 5,496
