The latest data shows that the Myrtle Beach DMA (Horry County) is the most moved to area for the past 3 years.

A new moveBuddha report, “The 2025–2026 Migration Report,” analyzes more than 500,000 moving searches and shows a clear shift in where Americans want to live. 

South Carolina is the top move-to state for the third year in a row. The Myrtle Beach DMA leads the state, but the biggest jump comes from Alaska, which posts the strongest surge in inbound interest nationwide. Several Florida cities also see major increases, while high-cost metros continue to lose residents.

Key findings:

• No runaway winners this year. For the first time since 2020, no state attracted twice as many newcomers as exits.
  
• South Carolina stays #1. It posts a 1.99 in-to-out ratio, led by Myrtle Beach DMA at 3.28 in-moves per exit, the highest of any U.S. city.
  
• Alaska jumps to #4. Inbound interest rises 32% year-over-year, the largest increase in the country.
  
• Florida’s smaller metros lead city-level growth. Ocala, Port St. Lucie, Palm Coast, Kissimmee, and St. Augustine all rank in the top 10.
  
• Micro-destinations rise sharply. Fort Collins (CO), Cumming (GA), Georgetown (TX), Salem (OR), and Bellingham (WA) see some of the biggest gains of the year.
  
• California metros see the most outflow. Bakersfield, Long Beach, Riverside, Fresno, and San Diego rank among the lowest in in-to-out ratios.
  
• 2026 outlook. Knoxville, TN is projected to be the top inbound city next year, and Alaska is forecast to draw 2.45 newcomers per exit, the strongest ratio among states.
  

Full report: https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/migration-moving-report/

ABOUT THE MYRTLE BEACH DMA

The Myrtle Beach DMA (Designated Market Area) encompasses a diverse region extending from Little River, South Carolina, in the north, to Aynor, South Carolina, in the west, and southward to Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. This area is characterized by its vibrant tourism industry, beautiful coastal landscapes, and a rich array of recreational opportunities.

The Myrtle Beach DMA serves as a significant economic hub, attracting visitors and residents alike with its unique blend of leisure and commerce.

Understanding the geographic scope of the Myrtle Beach DMA is essential for businesses and advertisers aiming to effectively target and engage the local population.