For the third year in a row Atlanta beat out other major cities as the most popular place to relocate, according to recent data from Penske Truck Rental.
“A diverse city with many cultural attractions, residents enjoy the perks of big cities like New York and Chicago without the cold weather” Penske notes.
Atlanta’s stayed at the top of the heap thanks to such attractions as the world’s largest aquarium, a thriving cultural scene and affordable homes. The median home sale price in Atlanta is $200,100.
Check out the other nine cities that made the destination list for some of the more than 36 million people who packed their bags and moved in 2012. Needless to say, warm weather locales were high on the list:
2. Dallas-Fort Worth: Even with all the nightlife, shopping and entertainment that residents rave about, home prices remain at around $161,000.
3. Phoenix: With an average temp is 70 degrees in February, people forget about the city’s sweltering 100s in the summer. Residents enjoy kayaking, hiking and biking in spring and winter. The median home sale price: $131,000.
4. Orlando, Fla: Orlando isn’t just Mickey Mouse, says Penske. It’s one of the world’s largest golf destinations. Fishing, boating and other outdoor activities year-round is a definite draw. So are median home sale prices of $116,000.
5. Chicago: Residents enjoy food from all over the world; entertainment that ranges from world-famous ballet to local rock and blues bands. Reliable public transit is a big plus, and the median home sale price is $190,000.
6. Houston:The city boasts mild winters, hot summers and Southern hospitality. Plenty of job opportunities, and homes sell for a median price of $124,050.
7. Denver: The “mile high” city draws residents who want to work hard and play hard, says Penske. Skiing and snowboarding in the winter and mountain biking and hiking in the summer are big draws. Median home sale price is $233,950.
8. Seattle: The rainy city offers gorgeous mountain and water views from the famous Space Needle, generally mild temps and homes sell for a median price of $362,500.
9. Charlotte, N.C.: The city was named the second largest financial center by assets, behind New York City in 2011. Charlotte crows about the NASCAR Hall of Fame, public golf courses and other attractions. Average home sales are set at $162,000.
10. Sarasota, Fla.: Sarasota is home to Siesta Key Beach, named regularly as one of the top three beaches in the U.S. The city bosts rides, eco-tours, and a median home sale price of $165,000.
About the Author
