Close-up of a man sealing a cardboard box with a tape dispenser during a move indoors showcasing migration patterns in South Carolina.

South Carolina continues to be one of America’s fastest-growing states, but where do residents go when they decide to relocate? Recent data from U-Haul’s midyear migration report provides fascinating insights into these movement patterns—and reveals some key opportunities for our business.

South Carolina: Still a Top Growth Destination

For good reason, South Carolina earned the title of America’s #1 growth state in U-Haul’s latest report, boasting an impressive 51.7% arrival rate versus a 48.3% departure rate. The state’s most popular growth markets include:

  • Myrtle Beach (No. 5 nationally)
  • Greenville (No. 10 nationally)
  • Spartanburg (No. 11 nationally)
  • Charleston-North Charleston (No. 13 nationally)

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Top Destinations for South Carolina Departures

When South Carolina residents do decide to move, here’s where they’re headed according to U-Haul’s one-way rental data from January to July 2025:

Charlotte, North Carolina – #1 Destination

Charlotte tops the list as the primary destination for South Carolina residents making the move. This makes perfect sense given Charlotte’s proximity to the South Carolina border and its status as a major economic hub in the Southeast. As a company serving the Charlotte metro area, this represents a significant opportunity for us to assist families and professionals making this transition.

Other Popular Destinations:

  • Atlanta, Georgia (No. 5)
  • Miami, Florida (No. 6)
  • Orlando, Florida (No. 6)
  • Tampa, Florida (No. 7)
  • Baltimore, Maryland (No. 10)
  • Washington, D.C. (No. 10)

The North Carolina Connection

It’s worth noting that both Charlotte (#2 nationally) and Raleigh (#7 nationally) rank among the top 10 U-Haul growth metros for 2024. This dual presence in the top tier highlights North Carolina’s appeal to relocating families and creates substantial opportunities in both markets where we operate.

The data shows a clear migration pattern along the I-85 and I-77 corridors, with many South Carolina residents choosing to stay within the broader Carolinas region while seeking new opportunities in North Carolina’s thriving metropolitan areas.

What This Means for Regional Growth

The migration patterns reveal several key trends:

Proximity Matters: Charlotte’s #1 ranking demonstrates that many people prefer to stay relatively close to their previous location while still accessing new opportunities.

Economic Opportunities: The popularity of destinations like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Atlanta suggests that job markets and career advancement opportunities are primary drivers of relocation decisions.

Regional Familiarity: The strong showing of Southeast destinations indicates that many movers prefer to stay within a familiar regional culture and climate.

Frequently Asked Property Management Questions

Property Management Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1) Know the latest landlord-tenant laws [renter/tenant rights, landlord rights, and Fair Housing]

2) Decide if you will be renting yourself or hiring a property management company

3) Using real data, determine a sound rental rate for your market

4) Research how you will list your rental property online

5) Inspect the property and perform required maintenance

6) Take premier property photos and list the home

7) Schedule appointments and show the property

8) Secure a legally compliant & fair lease

9) Collect initial move-in payments

10) Oversee pre-move repair requests

11) Oversee move-in day, utility transfer, inevitable new user issues

Or, you could just hire us…

Renting out your home can be a very smart and lucrative decision when done properly. Determining up-front what costs and benefits to renting your home can be expected is crucial. Accurate pricing, knowing state and federal landlord laws, and understanding the future market trends are all pivotal in the success of your rental home.

The exact requirements can vary by state or municipality. Most areas do require a real estate license if you collect rent and deposits on someone else’s behalf. Simply put, your friend that used to work for an apartment complex cannot market your home, lease, or collect rental funds on your behalf unless licensed.

Without being partial, that’s really a preference question. However, here is our list of things to be on the lookout for in a great property manager:

Communication: Are your questions answer quickly, clearly, and kindly?

What do their property manager reviews have to say?

Has the rental process been explained clearly and do you agree with it?

Are their rental home listings clear and descriptive or rushed?

Property management company fees vary widely based on the type of service, season, and property management company you choose. Average monthly fees can be around 10% while some companies may charge a flat monthly rate

Being a landlord can be both fun and easy. With free property, management software available (Apartments.com) do-it-yourself landlords have never had it easier! However, the largest sacrifice to be a landlord is time, and stress. Advertising your rental home, processing applications, emergency maintenance calls, and the unfortunate eviction can quickly wipe out a huge amount of what you might save by passing on hiring tax-deductible superior property management services. That said, a poor rental management company can cause headaches of their own, so it’s a matter of finding a great one. If you do, they’re worth their weight in gold

According to RocketHomes.Com,“When you sell a home, that’s the extent of the money you will make on the property. But if you hold it as a rental, you could continue to earn money every month, realize tax advantages and, ideally, see appreciation.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves! With the expanding real estate market, now is the perfect time to invest in rental property. The US government has built a system where the easiest and most consistent path to wealth is owning exceptionally managed rental homes

Yes! Property management fees, and even most maintenance items, are tax-deductible as they pertain to your rental property

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Looking Ahead

As these migration trends continue, the Charlotte and Raleigh metros are well-positioned to benefit from South Carolina’s continued growth and the natural movement between these interconnected markets. For businesses serving these areas, understanding these patterns can help better serve clients making these transitions.

To read more on this topic, visit Are people moving away from SC? Here’s what 2025 U-Haul data shows.

Hayli-Mace-Marketing-Support-Specialist

Born and raised in Western North Carolina, Hayli brings creative flair, marketing expertise, and a keen eye for detail to every project. Her passion for connecting with people and dedication to quality make her an enthusiastic and valuable contributor.

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