This Southern city is the most desirable place to move in the U.S.

Americans are still on the move, and current trends point towards smaller cities with big appeal. That's according to a recent study by MoveBuddha—and Johnson City, Tennessee has emerged as the most desired relocation destination in the U.S. for 2025.

The report, based on search data from MoveBuddha’s Moving Cost Calculator between July 2024 and March 2025, highlights where people are planning to go next, even if they haven’t made it official yet. And the top pick? A university town tucked away in the Appalachian foothills, population 100,000.

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Located in northeast Tennessee, about an hour north of Asheville, North Carolina, Johnson City offers a balance of natural beauty, affordability and livability that’s getting harder to find. The city sits near the Appalachian Trail and is surrounded by lakes, trails and mountains, making it a draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Mountain biking, hiking, camping and fishing are all part of everyday life here.

But this isn’t just a nature escape. Johnson City has a strong local economy, driven in part by healthcare, education and a growing number of remote professionals. The cost of living remains below the national average, and the housing market is still accessible for first-time buyers—one of the top factors influencing where people move, according to MoveBuddha.

The report shows that Johnson City’s popularity reflects a larger trend: Americans are increasingly drawn to mid-sized cities that offer space, outdoor access and a slower pace without sacrificing amenities. Other top destinations include Coeur d’Alene, ID; Summerville, SC; St. George, UT and Fairbanks, AK.

Johnson City’s rise suggests that for many movers, quality of life is the new status symbol. And in 2025, that means fresh air and room to breathe.

Ten most popular cities to move to in the U.S.

1. Johnson City, TN
2. Coeur d'Alene, ID
3. Summerville, SC
4. St. George, UT
5. Fairbanks, AK
6. Huntsville, AL
7. The Villages, FL
8. Duluth, GA
9. Portland, ME
10. Gulfport, MS