More Americans Putting Down Roots

Between 2006 and 2007, only 13% of Americans changed residences, the smallest share since the late 1940s.

RISMedia recently reported on the growing trend of fewer Americans moving. In 2008, only 12% of the American population changed addresses, down from 13% between 2006 and 2007. The reasons for this trend may be the slowing economy, the downward spiral of the housing market, and the increase of two-income families.

Pew Research Center recently analyzed this trend and divided Americans into 2 categories, “movers” and “stayers.” “Movers” consist of Americans who have moved to a new community at least once in their lifetime; “stayers” are those who have never moved out of their hometowns. Six out of ten Americans were found to be “movers,” while one third of the population are considered “stayers.” Surprisingly, 57% of Americans have never lived outside of their home state.

The study also found that a college degree is the leading factor in making someone a “mover”. College graduates often move farther distances and more often because of a job opportunity than a high school graduate.

Click here to read the full article at RISMedia.com.