Generation Z refers to those born between 1997 and 2012, while criteria varies by the source. Born after Millennials, Generation Z spent most of their lives with cell phones and modern technology, which bestows them with some advantages and many disadvantages. Their aptitude for tech, while detrimental in some ways, has also allowed many in Gen Z to make gobs of money.
When you have more money than the average USAmerican, you have more opportunity to relocate. With their taste for modern amenities and active social lives, Generation Z has flocked disproportionately to locales with plenty of both—yet, a closer look reveals that this unique generation values more than just nightclubs and tapas bars.
1. New York City, NY
The Big Apple will always be the dream for an outsize number of young people seeking lucrative careers, an unparalleled abundance of social stimulation, and the thrill that no other American city can offer.
New York’s housing vacancy rate recently hit a low not seen since 1968, and analysts attribute many of the occupied residences to Generation Z. After all, few TikTok backdrops compare to those offered by NYC, despite the cost of living remaining undeniably ridiculous.
2. Florida
When you consider the sunshine, absurdly large coastline, and selection of ultra-modern cities with no shortage of clubs, restaurants, and employment opportunities, should it be any surprise that Generation Z has migrated to Florida in droves?
It is of no surprise. Americans of all age brackets dream about life in Florida, which is why so many ultimately retire there. Generation Z has taken a particular liking to relatively large cities like Miami and Tampa, which are bustling with culture. And both lie in close proximity to world-class beaches.
3. Salt Lake City, UT
What if I told you the Mormons were losing ground to Generation Z? Well, in truth, they can peacefully coexist, but it’s a fact that Salt Lake City has become a (perhaps unlikely) destination for residents born between 1997 and 2012.
Some have even crowned Salt Lake City as the metropolis for young people seeking financial stability. A 41% increase in the young population between 2012 and 2022 can be attributed to an abundance of professional opportunities and a cost of living that is more reasonable to other attractive job markets (looking at you, New York City).
4. Arizona
Even Generation Z has its limits. Taxation rates and cost of living are two prime financial considerations for a generation saddled by six-figure student debt, and Arizona has become a nearby haven for those fleeing California in particular.
Arizona’s flat income tax rate of 2.5% is far preferable to California’s income tax rate, which can be as high as 9.3% for Gen Z households earning more than $70,000. Toss in the year-round sunshine and easily accessible outdoor activities, and Arizona appears an easy choice for young transplants.
5. Tennessee
When looking at states with pristine nature, reasonable governance, and a diversity of offerings for nature lovers and urban dwellers alike, few rank above Tennessee. The Volunteer State has lakes, rivers, college towns, and something for just about everyone.
Nashville in particular is a hub for young people. Between Broadway, professional sports franchises, and a renowned culinary scene, there’s plenty to like about Music City.
6. Texas (and the Austin Metro Area in Particular)
Chalk it up to Joe Rogan of the unique weirdness that Austin offers, but Generation Z has taken a liking to a state that they may have once dismissed as too conservative to consider.
Texas is attracting more young people than any other state, by at least one source’s metrics. From a robust job market to rock-bottom tax rates and bustling cities like Dallas and Austin, it’s no wonder that the Lone Star State is rapidly becoming the Gen Z State.
7. Colorado
Sure, recreational cannabis has not hurt Colorado’s candidacy among Generation Z-ers looking for a new home. While some young people have undoubtedly avoided the state due to the high volume of skunks, many find the ability to toke up whenever and wherever attractive.
Looking beyond the green, though, Colorado hiking in the summer, snowboarding in the winter, and several modern cities (like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs) have always been magnets for the youthful.
8. Boise, ID
If you haven’t heard the name “Boise” when it comes to budding dark-horse metropoles, put it in your notes. The city offers more than just Boise State’s blue football field, as it has an increasingly respected culinary scene, the Boise Mountains (and all the outdoor delights that come with mountains), and a job market that ranges well beyond just growing potatoes.
These and other pull factors have brought a surprising number of young people to Boise.
9. Nevada
Nevada is one of the top ten states Generation Z is calling their new home, and it’s worth exploring why. One of the most obvious answers is “California.”
Californians are tired of working years of their lives for free due to untenable taxation. Nevada is close, offers predictable weather and affordable homes that they can’t find in the Golden State. Nevadans can drive or fly to see family in California without paying the taxes, which is a significant reason for Nevada’s positive migration statistics.
10. Baton Rouge, LA
One study that gauged the financial success of Generation Z pegged Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as the seventh-ranked city where this generation is thriving financially.
The rankings were based on the average household median income for those that fall within Gen Z. Baton Rouge has a relatively high crime rate, but it’s also home to Louisiana State University, which alone could make it attractive to young people. With Gen Z-ers doing so well in Louisiana’s capital city, it’s reasonable to expect more in this age bracket to follow the money.
11. North Carolina
Recent weather events notwithstanding, North Carolina has seen a substantial influx of young people. The state has seen a gain in wealthy households in particular, with 521 new residents in 2022 making five times more than the national median household income.
What’s not to like in North Carolina? The fresh mountain air can’t be beat, and cities like Charlotte have a variety of well-paying job opportunities.
12. North Dakota
The young generation has a viral case of wanderlust, and locales like North Dakota are not off limits. In fact, North Dakota has seen a notable increase in new residents in recent years, with even the harsh winters not deterring young people from calling this wild state home.
The low cost of living and 360-degree natural beauty are largely to credit with North Dakota’s population gains. Investments in professional training programs have proven gas on the fire.
13. Pennsylvania
One study ranked Pennsylvania tenth of all states in terms of Gen Z gains. From Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, young transplants find that Pennsylvania offers big-city amenities at a far lower cost of life than they’d find in Manhattan or Boston.
To their credit, legislators in Pennsylvania have recognized the loss of manufacturing and have taken substantial steps to attract young professionals. Money talks, and the influx of young professionals suggests that these efforts are paying off.
14. Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital will always have the advantage of being the hub of government. The industry of politics will always attract ambitious young professionals, despite a high cost of living and persistent crime.
One source tabbed D.C. as the number one city where Generation Z is moving to, and the development should come as no shock. Money and politics are inextricably linked, and people of all ages tend to follow the money.
15. Mississippi
You read that right. The most difficult state to spell is the unsuspecting home of an increasing number of Generation Z households. The Magnolia State accounted for the seventh most number of new “wealthy” Gen Z residents as of November 2024.
While it has its fair share of problems, including outdated infrastructure and high rates of poverty, Mississippi is a naturally beautiful state with a relatively low cost of living. Cities like Oxford offer their fair share of charm and social vibrance, so the much-maligned state’s spot on this list shouldn’t be as surprising as some might think.
