America has long been a very mobile nation, with many people living in more than one state during their lifetime. According to Money Magazine, the top destination in 2013 was Oregon. Based on an annual study conducted by United Van Lines, 61 percent of Oregon’s interstate moves were incoming. South Carolina came in at 60 percent, North Carolina at 58 percent and Nevada at 56 percent. These figures tie closely to the annual report from CNNMoney of the Best Places to Live. Sherwood, Oregon ranks number five. Portland State University conducted a study that indicated that Oregon experienced the largest migration growth in the last five years with an increase of 35,290 in 2013.

The most commonly cited reasons for moving to Oregon are business incentives, industrial growth and lower cost of living. Many young professionals are attracted to the lifestyle in Oregon, such as the beautiful natural surroundings, efficient public transportation systems and local arts and entertainment. Add the fact that housing costs are significantly lower than in California and you can easily understand the lure of the Pacific Northwest. A home in Portland cost roughly 40 percent less than a comparable home in Los Angeles, and almost two-thirds less than a home in San Francisco.

Another report from the national Bureau of Labor Statistics states that in 2013, Oregon posted a 2.4 percent increase in jobs. This is the third-highest growth in the country for last year.

If you are one of the many people who have migrated to Oregon from another state in the last few years, you may be ready to make the commitment to buy a home. Certainly, the availability of homes has decreased due to population growth, but it is still a viable marketplace. If you are ready to look, contact a licensed real estate agent to help you with the process.