(LANSING) - Michigan's long-running population drain showed signs of easing in 2025, with nearly as many people moving into the state as leaving.
Data from major moving companies shows outbound moves only slightly outpaced inbound ones. U-Haul reported a near-even split, while Atlas Van Lines said more people moved into Michigan than out for the first time in years. United Van Lines also found migration almost evenly balanced.
Those trends pushed Michigan up to 41st on the U-Haul Growth Index, its best showing since 2020 and ahead of Ohio and Illinois, though still behind other Great Lakes states.
Family reasons drove most moves, followed by jobs. Higher-income earners were more likely to move into Michigan, while lower-income residents were more likely to leave.
Despite an aging population, Michigan added more than 57,000 residents between mid-2023 and mid-2024. State analysts project modest growth over the next decade before a gradual decline later on.
Cost of living, housing, and job opportunities continue to shape where Michiganders go, with southern states remaining the top destinations for those who leave.