Feeling the Squeeze? 65% of Americans Say They’ll Need to Move by 2030

As cost-of-living pressures mount, a recent survey of over 1,000 Americans reveals a telling insight: 65% believe they’ll need to relocate within the next five years.

This information comes from a report published by the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors® (PAR), highlighting just how much financial strain is reshaping where people live and how they plan for the future.

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Housing Isn’t the Only Struggle

Affordability is at the breaking point for many:

• 57% say they’re managing—but only with difficulty.

• 27% feel they’re managing comfortably.

• 16% say they simply cannot afford their current cost of living.

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What Does “Comfort” Cost?

Respondents estimate an annual salary of $105,000 to live comfortably. Notably, Gen Z expects even more—a staggering $133,516.

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What’s Driving the Move?

Rising costs are pinching budgets across several fronts:

• Food: 38%

• Housing: 29%

• Healthcare: 17%

• Energy: 11%

Concerns also extend beyond daily expenses—86% express anxiety about tariffs, and a quarter foresee being forced to move within a year, with a third of Gen Z feeling this way.

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Eyeing New Horizons—Including Abroad

Fifteen percent of respondents are contemplating moving overseas. Here’s how that breaks down by generation:

• Gen Z – 18%

• Millennials – 15%

• Gen X – 15%

• Boomers – 13%

Top international destinations in consideration: Canada, Italy, Portugal, and Thailand. While 82% still enjoy life in the U.S., 56% believe other countries offer a better quality of life, and 48% see more economic opportunity abroad.

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Not Moving? Here’s How They’ll Adjust

Many plan to adapt their finances in-place:

• 30% would take a second job

• 18% are looking for a new job

• 10% would pivot to a more lucrative career

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Why It Matters

This isn’t just about people thinking of moving—it’s a reflection of deep-seated financial strain affecting everyday life: from how much we earn, to where we live, to how we plan our futures. Especially telling is Gen Z’s high salary expectations and openness to relocating—even internationally.

Source: Pennsylvania Association of Realtors® – Read the full report here.

✨ A Note From Me

Hi, I’m Andie Katz, Associate Broker | REALTOR with REAL Broker where Katz is Key 2 Pocono Living and if you’re thinking about moving—or just have real estate questions—reach out anytime. I’m here to help.