Austin has again secured a spot among Penske Truck Rental’s Top 10 Moving Destinations for all of 2024, highlighting the city’s enduring appeal despite evolving migration patterns. This marks the fifth consecutive year Austin has featured on Penske’s annual list, which is based on one-way truck rental data. While Austin remains a popular relocation choice, recent data indicates a moderation in its growth trajectory. According to the Austin Chamber of Commerce, net migration to the Austin metro area decreased between 2022 and 2023, with Travis, Williamson and Hays counties all experiencing slower population growth. Despite this slowdown, the city continues to draw newcomers, particularly from other parts of Texas and major out-of-state metropolitan areas. In 2022, top sources of inbound migration included cities like Killeen and Mission, underscoring Austin’s role as a regional hub. The broader Central Texas region, encompassing the Austin–Round Rock–San Marcos metropolitan area, has seen significant demographic shifts over the past decade. As of 2020, the metro area’s population exceeded 2.2 million, reflecting its status as one of the fastest-growing large metropolitan areas in the U.S.
Chad Swiatecki is a 20-year journalist who relocated to Austin from his home state of Michigan in 2008. He most enjoys covering the intersection of arts, business and local/state politics. He has written... More by Chad Swiatecki