Small-Town Charm, Big-City Jobs Have Families Flocking To This Southern Suburb
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A small Southern town has emerged as an unexpected hot spot for job seekers.
The New York Post reports that moving and storage company Move Buddha has crowned Summerville, South Carolina, the “top job-magnet suburb” in the country.
The company’s analysis of search data from early 2024 to Oct. 1 revealed a surge in interest in Summerville. The quaint town, often overlooked in favor of larger metropolitan areas, has quietly cultivated a thriving job market, attracting workers nationwide.
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The factors contributing to Summerville’s popularity as a job destination are diverse. Its strategic location, affordable cost of living and growing economy have all significantly contributed to its appeal. The town’s strong sense of community, excellent schools and abundant recreational opportunities make it an attractive place for families and young professionals.
“Metro areas with robust job growth are fueling interest in nearby suburbs, with newcomers drawn by the chance to build both a stable career and a comfortable life,” the report states. “The American dream can take vastly different forms.
“Together, they highlight a clear trend: As employment opportunities expand, so does the appeal of surrounding suburban areas.”
Summerville is a magnet for new residents. The high in-to-out move ratio, with about 3.76 people moving in for every one person who leaves, is driving significant population growth. The surge in demand has led to a booming real estate market and a thriving economy.
In just one year, 5,500 construction jobs were added to the market, contributing to total job growth of 80,000.
According to Move Buddha, the job market in Summerville, a town of just over 52,000 residents, grew 4.2% from August 2023 to August 2024. The burgeoning tech hub, ranking fifth in the U.S. for high-tech industry output, is attracting talent from across the country.
Despite the influx of residents, housing prices in Summerville remain relatively affordable, with an average home cost of $380,000. This contrasts sharply with more expensive tech hubs like Beverly Hills, California, where the average home price is over $3 million and job growth is significantly lower at 1.6%.
“While many suburban moves are spurred on by remote work trends that allow more affordable lifestyles in far-flung locations, many movers also consider living near a robust job market to be a real estate feature that can support them should they lose a remote job,” the report states. “As a result, suburbs and small towns – especially near jobs – remain popular.”
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