Declining Mobility in the U.S.

The U.S. no longer represents a culture of mobility. The number of Americans moving dropped from one-third in the 19th century to around 20 percent in the 1980s, and was 8.7 percent in 2022, the lowest rate ever recorded by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The reasons behind this include skyrocketing housing prices, limited housing supply, racial disparities in housing quality, lingering pandemic effects, and a variety of other economic and cultural factors. High housing prices are leading younger adults to live with their parents longer, while older homeowners are remaining in place, especially if their homes are paid off. Remote work options reduce job-related moves, though reduced mobility can affect labor market flexibility and community diversity. The decline in American mobility has not affected everyone equally, however. Much of the U.S.'s affordable housing is not located where the jobs are, which makes it harder for lower-income families to move where opportunity exists.

For planners, understanding why people aren't moving is critical. Housing affordability, job access, and community design all shape mobility choices. Addressing these barriers can help ensure that "staying put" reflects choice, not constraint.