Austin Migration Trends Shift as More Locals Stay Put

Study finds Austin's migration patterns are increasingly regional rather than national

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A recent study indicates a shift in American moving patterns, with fewer people relocating overall and those who do tend to stay closer to home. The study found that the dominant trend isn't a large-scale national migration, but rather individuals moving to nearby cities that better align with their financial situations and lifestyles. Even as Austin experienced net population growth, it ranked fourth in year-over-year percentage growth during the fourth quarter of 2025, with the same cities sending residents to Austin also seeing people leave for those locations.

Why it matters

These migration patterns suggest that cost of living and lifestyle preferences are increasingly essential factors in relocation decisions. The reciprocal nature of migration between Austin and other Texas cities indicates a regional reshuffling rather than a broad exodus or influx, which could lead to further stabilization of populations within regions and potentially continued growth in smaller Midwest metros as people seek more affordable options.

The details

The study identified Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio as primary destinations for those leaving Austin, with 9% of Austin residents who moved in 2025 relocating to Dallas, 7% choosing Houston, and 5% selecting San Antonio. Analysts expect that the balance between inbound and outbound migration will remain a key indicator of a city's economic health and quality of life.

  • The study was conducted in the fourth quarter of 2025.
  • Austin ranked fourth in year-over-year percentage growth during the fourth quarter of 2025.

The players

Austin

The capital city of Texas that experienced net population growth in 2025, but saw its migration patterns become more regional rather than national.

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What’s next

Analysts will continue to monitor Austin's migration patterns and the impact on the city's economic health and quality of life.

The takeaway

As regional migration patterns become more prominent, cities like Austin will need to focus on addressing cost of living and quality of life factors to attract and retain residents, rather than relying on large-scale national migration trends.