A growing number of Americans are factoring climate risks into their relocation decisions. The emerging pattern is clear: people are moving away from extreme heat, hurricanes, and wildfire zones.
Where People Are Leaving
- Phoenix/Tucson: Extreme heat and water scarcity driving outmigration
- South Florida: Rising flood insurance costs and hurricane risk
- Coastal California: Wildfire risk, drought, and astronomical housing costs
- Gulf Coast: Repeated hurricane damage and rising insurance premiums
Where People Are Going
- Duluth, Minnesota: Dubbed a "climate refuge" — mild summers, ample water, low disaster risk
- Buffalo, New York: Great Lakes water supply, moderate temperatures, affordable housing
- Burlington, Vermont: New England climate stability with quality of life
- Boise, Idaho: Moderate climate, growing economy, but wildfire smoke is a concern
The Numbers
A Redfin survey found 18% of home buyers in 2025 considered climate risk as a factor in their purchase decision, up from 7% in 2020. Insurance availability — or lack thereof — is becoming the primary financial driver.
