The trend of states netting larger numbers of one-way U-Haul® customers continued during 2024, with Maine emerging as one of the biggest risers on the U-Haul Growth Index.
Maine climbed 18 spots in the rankings, showcasing a significant increase in the number of people moving to the state. This rise places Maine among the top states experiencing growth in 2024.
Growth rankings are configured by each state’s net gain (or loss) of customers utilizing one-way U-Haul equipment in a calendar year. The U-Haul Growth Index is compiled from well over 2.5 million one-way U-Haul truck, trailer, and U-Box® moving container transactions that occur annually.
“State-to-state transactions from the past year reaffirm customer tendencies that have been pronounced for some time,” stated John “J.T.” Taylor, U-Haul International president. “Migration patterns show families are considering factors such as cost of living, job opportunities, and quality of life when relocating. Maine’s rise in the rankings indicates it is becoming an increasingly attractive destination.”
While southern states like South Carolina, Texas, North Carolina, Florida, and Tennessee continue to lead the growth states, Maine’s significant upward movement is noteworthy. South Carolina topped the U-Haul Growth Index for the first time, unseating Texas, which held the No. 1 spot for the previous three years (2021-23).
California experienced the greatest net loss of do-it-yourself movers in U-Haul equipment and ranks 50th for the fifth consecutive year, highlighting a trend of out-migration from the state.
“U-Haul continues to expand its network, rental fleet, and self-storage footprint so that wherever people move in 2025, we will be there to meet their needs,” Taylor added.
Other notable risers include Oklahoma (+30) and Indiana (+19), while states like Colorado (-31), Nevada (-24), Wyoming (-22), and New Mexico (-21) saw the biggest declines in 2024.
Find past growth rankings and reports at uhaul.com/about/migration.