Phoenix, AZ, January 6, 2026
The U-Haul Growth Index for 2025 highlights significant migration trends across the United States, emphasizing Phoenix, AZ, as a top destination for families and businesses. The report reveals that Arizona continues to attract new residents due to its vibrant economy, favorable job market, and appealing lifestyle. This consistent growth is marked by an increase in arrivals and departures, signaling sustained interest in the Phoenix metropolitan region’s opportunities for entrepreneurs and families alike.
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix Rises: The Latest U-Haul Growth Index Illuminates National Migration Trends and Local Vibrancy
The latest U-Haul Growth Index for 2025 offers a fascinating look into the dynamic shifts in population across the United States, revealing where individuals and families are choosing to establish their homes and livelihoods. For Phoenix, AZ, a city long synonymous with opportunity and expansion, these national trends resonate deeply with our local experience of sustained economic growth and the spirit of Arizona AZ entrepreneurs. This annual report, compiled from millions of one-way U-Haul transactions, serves as a powerful indicator of where economic opportunity is perceived to be flourishing, often highlighting regions where limited regulation and an inviting business climate empower small-business resilience and personal achievement.
Understanding these migration patterns is crucial for comprehending the broader economic landscape. As people seek new horizons, they often gravitate towards areas characterized by a robust job market, accessible housing, and a community infrastructure that supports both personal and professional growth. This movement is a testament to the individual pursuit of betterment, and the U-Haul Growth Index provides valuable community insights into the destinations that are successfully attracting those ready to invest their talents and capital.
National Shifts and Economic Currents
The 2025 U-Haul Growth Index, announced on January 6, 2026, analyzed over 2.5 million one-way customer transactions across the U.S. and Canada to determine net gains or losses of customers. This comprehensive analysis once again positioned Texas as the No. 1 U-Haul growth state for 2025, marking the seventh time in a decade the Lone Star State has claimed this distinction. Florida secured the second spot for net gain of one-way customers in 2025, underscoring the strong appeal of the Southern states. The top five growth states for 2025 included Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina. Conversely, California ranked last (50th) for the sixth consecutive year in 2025, experiencing the greatest out-migration, with Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, and Illinois also among the bottom five. These shifts reflect a nationwide trend where movers are often seeking environments with lower costs of living, favorable tax structures, and growing job markets.
Phoenix’s Enduring Allure and Arizona’s Consistent Growth
Arizona continues to shine as a preferred destination for those seeking opportunity and a high quality of life. For 2025, Arizona ranked as the No. 7 growth state nationwide. This consistent performance is notable, as it marks the sixth consecutive year Arizona has been among the top 10 states for a net gain of one-way U-Haul customers. While Arizona did slide one spot from its No. 6 ranking in 2024, trading places with Washington, the overall picture remains one of robust attraction. In 2025, U-Haul customers arriving in Arizona constituted 50.3% of all one-way traffic in and out of the state, with both arrivals and departures rising by 2% compared to 2024.
Central to this steady influx are the factors that foster a dynamic Phoenix AZ business environment. New housing developments are emerging rapidly across metro Phoenix, Tucson, Prescott Valley, and Dewey-Humboldt, accommodating the growing population. The region is also experiencing significant investment in the technology sector, with new microchip plants and data centers creating numerous job opportunities. Beyond economic incentives, Arizona’s favorable weather, lower tax rates, and absence of state income tax continue to be major draws for families and businesses alike. Phoenix, AZ, as a leading metropolitan hub, also secured a spot among the top 10 growth metros for 2025, demonstrating its continued appeal to do-it-yourself movers.
Metropolitan Powerhouses Driving Innovation
Beyond state-level trends, the U-Haul Growth Index also provides granular detail on the metropolitan areas experiencing the most significant growth. The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan area, often referred to as DFW, once again claimed the top spot as the No. 1 U-Haul growth metro for 2025, replicating its success from 2024. This Texan dominance extends further, with Dallas, Houston, and Austin making up the top three growth metropolitan areas nationwide. In fact, six of the top 25 growth metros for 2025 are located in Texas, highlighting a pro-business environment that fosters innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. Phoenix, AZ, also featured prominently, ranking as the No. 5 growth metro for 2025, a testament to the region’s strong economic fundamentals and continuous development.
These leading metropolitan areas often share common characteristics: diversified economies, a skilled workforce, and supportive regulatory frameworks that encourage private investment and expansion. Such environments allow Phoenix small business ventures to thrive, creating a ripple effect of job creation and prosperity that benefits the entire community.
Cities on the Rise: Florida’s Dominance and Emerging Hubs
When examining individual cities, the U-Haul Growth Index reveals Florida’s undeniable strength. Ocala, Florida, maintained its title as the No. 1 U.S. growth city for 2025, a distinction it has held for three of the last four years, including 2024 and 2022. The Sunshine State’s magnetic appeal is evident, with Florida boasting eight of the top 10 growth cities and 12 of the top 25 nationwide for 2025. Cities like North Port, Kissimmee, and Clermont joined Ocala among the top five Florida growth cities, alongside Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Other Florida cities making the top 10 nationally include Fort Lauderdale, St. Augustine, Daytona Beach, and Panama City.
The reasons behind this urban migration often involve a blend of affordability, strong job markets, and lifestyle factors. Many of these cities offer a compelling proposition for individuals and families looking for a fresh start, supporting the narrative of personal achievement through relocation to areas with burgeoning economic opportunities.
Fostering Phoenix’s Future Economic Growth
The insights from the 2025 U-Haul Growth Index reinforce what many in Phoenix already know: our city and state are magnets for those seeking opportunity. Arizona’s consistent ranking as a top growth state and Phoenix’s position among leading growth metros underscore the success of policies that encourage entrepreneurial innovation and limit unnecessary burdens on businesses. By continuing to foster an environment conducive to investment, job creation, and individual prosperity, Phoenix AZ business can continue to attract top talent and maintain its vibrant economic trajectory. The ongoing development of our infrastructure, coupled with a commitment to a competitive business climate, will ensure that Phoenix remains a beacon for those pursuing the American dream.
Conclusion
The 2025 U-Haul Growth Index paints a clear picture of a nation in motion, with significant population shifts toward states and metropolitan areas that offer robust economic opportunities and a supportive environment for individuals and businesses. Phoenix, AZ, stands out in this narrative, demonstrating consistent growth and a strong appeal for new residents. The city’s blend of entrepreneurial spirit, ongoing development, and attractive lifestyle factors positions it well for continued economic growth. We encourage all residents to support local businesses and actively engage in shaping Phoenix’s bright economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the U-Haul Growth Index?
The U-Haul Growth Index for 2025 was announced on January 6, 2026, and is compiled from over 2.5 million one-way customer transactions to rank U.S. states, metropolitan areas, and cities by their net gain or loss of one-way U-Haul customers.
Which state was ranked as the No. 1 U-Haul growth state in 2025?
Texas was the No. 1 U-Haul growth state for 2025, marking the seventh time in 10 years the Lone Star State has ranked first.
How did Arizona rank in the 2025 U-Haul Growth Index for states?
Arizona was the No. 7 growth state of 2025. This is the sixth consecutive year Arizona has been among the top 10 states for the net gain of one-way U-Haul customers.
What metropolitan area was the top U-Haul growth metro for 2025?
The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan area was the No. 1 U-Haul growth metro for 2025, replicating its 2024 honor.
What city was the top U.S. growth city in 2025?
Ocala, Florida, retained the title of No. 1 U.S. growth city for 2025, a distinction it also held for 2024 and 2022.
What factors contribute to Arizona’s growth according to the U-Haul data?
Factors attracting movers to Arizona include new housing developments, microchip plants and data centers bringing jobs, favorable weather, low tax rates, and lower income tax.
Key Features of the 2025 U-Haul Growth Index
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Announcement Date | January 6, 2026 | Nationwide |
| Data Basis | Over 2.5 million one-way customer transactions | Nationwide |
| No. 1 Growth State | Texas (seventh time in 10 years) | State-level |
| No. 2 Growth State | Florida | State-level |
| Arizona State Ranking | No. 7 Growth State (sixth consecutive year in top 10) | State-level |
| No. 1 Growth Metro Area | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (replicated 2024 honor) | Metros (Nationwide) |
| Phoenix Metro Ranking | Among Top 10 Growth Metros (specifically No. 5 for 2025) | Metros (Phoenix, AZ) |
| No. 1 Growth City | Ocala, Florida (retained title from 2024 and 2022) | Cities (Nationwide) |
| Dominant State in Growth Cities | Florida (eight of top 10, 12 of top 25) | Cities (Nationwide) |
| State with Greatest Out-Migration | California (sixth consecutive year) | State-level |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
