As people relocate across the U.S., North Carolina has become a popular destination, driven by factors such as politics, affordable living, job opportunities, and warmer weather. This growing population influx has implications not only for real estate markets but potentially for the local political landscape as well.
North Carolina’s Growing Popularity
According to a recent Realtor.com article, North Carolina ranks among the top destinations for both “blue” and “red” movers from other states. From January 2021 to September 2024, 5.1% of U.S. out-of-state home searches from “blue” shoppers and 5.3% from “red” shoppers targeted North Carolina, making it a significant draw across the political spectrum. Migration into North Carolina and neighboring states has been driven by relatively affordable housing and attractive climates, allowing people from higher-cost states to maintain their lifestyle while reducing expenses.
Potential Political Impact
As new residents bring varied political preferences, states like North Carolina, which Realtor.com categorizes as a “swing state,” may experience a shift. Realtor.com data shows that while blue-leaning voters are considering states like North Carolina, it’s also experiencing increased interest from red-leaning voters. This trend could have implications for upcoming elections, as a shift in local demographics may influence state-level policies and priorities along with having national implications as well.
Impacts on Johnston County’s Real Estate Market
Johnston County, part of the booming Triangle region, benefits directly from this migration, leading to increased demand for housing in both established and new neighborhoods. The influx of newcomers from states with higher property costs means local markets are seeing sustained buyer interest, contributing to stable property values and potentially driving demand for amenities suited to remote work and family life.
With residents relocating for both economic reasons and lifestyle preferences, communities near the Triangle area, like Johnston County, will most certainly see ongoing growth in housing needs. New construction, community development, and investment in amenities are poised to increase as the area adapts to a growing and diversifying population.
NC a Top Destination for Red and Blue Home Shoppers!
The same Realtor.com article also analyzed where politically diverse home shoppers are migrating. For blue-leaning movers, top destinations included Florida (12.9% of out-of-state blue voter traffic), Texas (5.8%), and North Carolina (5.1%). Interestingly, red-leaning movers showed similar preferences, with Florida at 12.8% and Texas also at 5.8%, while North Carolina attracted 5.3%.
NC is a Potential Political Shift State in the 2024 Elections
This BAM article mentioned some states could trend redder for the 2024 election. These include some previous solid red states from 2020 election. 12 states voted overwhelmingly for Trump. Nine other states voted for Biden by a wide margin however these states could shift redder in the upcoming election.
Below is a list swing states that could shift redder for the 2024 election including:
- Arizona
- Georgia
- North Carolina
All this being said, the RiverWILD Real Estate Team encourages you to exercise your right to vote!
Ready to Explore Johnston County’s Real Estate Market?
No matter the outcome of the upcoming 2024 election, buyers who need to move will move and sellers who need to sell will do so.
For many buyers and sellers who are “on the fence”, once the winners and losers are announced, we believe more consumers will decide to get off the fence and make their move.
You Need an Expert Johnston County Real Estate Agent!
Now more than ever, home buyers and sellers will need an expert real estate professional to help them understand the latest market trends in Johnston County. We welcome the opportunity to be your trusted resource for local insights to help you find the perfect home or sell your home in this rapidly growing region. Contact our team today!