Ocala, Florida, January 7, 2026
Ocala, Florida, has been designated as the leading U-Haul growth city for 2025 for the second year in a row. This recognition highlights the city’s rising appeal for new residents, bolstered by a low cost of living and a strong job market. With eight out of the top ten growth cities located in Florida, the state’s allure for movers continues to grow, as evidenced by the substantial net gain of one-way customers.
Ocala, Florida, Tops U-Haul’s 2025 Growth Index for Second Consecutive Year
Ocala, Florida, has been ranked as the number one U-Haul growth city for 2025, marking the second consecutive year the city has held this position. This ranking is based on the net gain of one-way customers during the year, reflecting Ocala’s appeal to individuals relocating to the area. Factors contributing to this growth include the city’s low cost of living and a healthy job market, which have made it an attractive destination for movers.
Top U-Haul Growth Cities of 2025
The top ten U-Haul growth cities for 2025 are as follows:
- Ocala, FL
- North Port, FL
- Myrtle Beach, SC
- Kissimmee, FL
- Clermont, FL
- McKinney, TX
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- St. Augustine, FL
- Daytona Beach, FL
- Panama City, FL
Florida cities dominate the list, with eight of the top ten and twelve of the top twenty-five growth cities located in the state. This trend underscores Florida’s strong appeal to movers seeking new opportunities.
Top U-Haul Growth Metros of 2025
The leading U-Haul growth metropolitan areas for 2025 are:
- Dallas, TX
- Houston, TX
- Austin, TX
- Charlotte, NC
- Phoenix, AZ
- Nashville, TN
- Charleston, SC
- Raleigh, NC
- Atlanta, GA
- Brownsville & McAllen, TX
Texas metropolitan areas lead the growth index, with Dallas, Houston, and Austin securing the top three positions. This indicates robust economic conditions and plentiful job opportunities that attract movers to the Lone Star State.
Understanding the U-Haul Growth Index
The U-Haul Growth Index is compiled from over 2.5 million annual one-way transactions across the U.S. and Canada. It ranks metropolitan areas and city propers by their net gain or loss of customers who rented a one-way truck, trailer, or U-Box moving container in one location and dropped off their equipment in another. This index serves as an effective gauge of how well states, metros, and cities are attracting and maintaining residents.
About U-Haul
Founded in 1945, U-Haul is the number one choice for do-it-yourself movers, with more than 24,000 rental locations across all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces. The company offers a comprehensive range of moving and storage solutions, including trucks, trailers, towing devices, and self-storage units. U-Haul’s extensive network and services make it a leader in the moving industry.
Key Features of the U-Haul Growth Index 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Top Growth City | Ocala, Florida |
| Top Growth Metro | Dallas, Texas |
| Florida’s Presence | Eight of the top ten and twelve of the top twenty-five growth cities are in Florida |
| Texas’s Presence | Texas metros claim the top three spots and six of the top twenty-five growth metros |
| Index Compilation | Based on over 2.5 million annual one-way transactions across the U.S. and Canada |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the U-Haul Growth Index?
The U-Haul Growth Index is a ranking compiled from over 2.5 million annual one-way transactions across the U.S. and Canada. It measures the net gain or loss of customers who rented a one-way truck, trailer, or U-Box moving container in one location and dropped off their equipment in another, serving as an indicator of how well states, metros, and cities attract and retain residents.
Which city topped the U-Haul Growth Index in 2025?
Ocala, Florida, was ranked as the number one U-Haul growth city for 2025, marking the second consecutive year the city has held this position.
Which metropolitan area led the U-Haul Growth Index in 2025?
Dallas, Texas, was the leading U-Haul growth metropolitan area for 2025, replicating its 2024 honor with the greatest net gain of one-way customers during the year.
What factors contribute to Ocala’s growth?
Ocala’s low cost of living and a healthy job market are key factors contributing to its growth, making it an attractive destination for movers.
How does the U-Haul Growth Index reflect migration trends?
The U-Haul Growth Index reflects migration trends by indicating how well states, metros, and cities are attracting and maintaining residents, based on the net gain or loss of one-way customers.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Austin Becomes Top Relocation Destination for New Residents
Migration Trends Show Decline in Texas for 2024
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
