Is Your Town A Top Moving Destination? | MNCatholicSeniors.com

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(StatePoint) In spite of an uncertain economy, America is a country on the move. In fact, nearly 12 percent of Americans changed their place of residence between 2010 and 2011, according to U.S. Census data.

But where is everyone going?

A newly released list of the Top 10 Moving Destinations compiled by Penske Truck Rental sheds some light on where people are relocating within the U.S., based on data gleaned from its online consumer truck rental reservations and call centers.

According to these moving experts, the most popular U.S. cities to relocate to in 2011 were:

1. Atlanta

2. Phoenix

3. Orlando, Fla.

4. Dallas/Fort Worth

5. Chicago

6. Houston

7. Denver

8. Seattle

9. Sarasota, Fla.

10. Charlotte, N.C.

?As this list indicates, U.S. residents continue migrating primarily toward warm weather areas,? noted Don Mikes, Penske?s Vice President of Rental.

If you?re thinking of following suit, be sure to research your destination options before packing up the truck, as there are a lot of factors to weigh.

You can start by checking school rankings and local crime reports of your potential new home. Reading the want ads in the community newspapers and online classifieds, is a great way to determine what the local job market will be like when you arrive. You may find the industry you work in guides you most in your decision-making.

If possible, plan a trip to your intended destination, but don?t spend your time solely on the tourist traps. Instead, put yourself in the shoes of a resident. Drive the streets at rush hour. Visit the grocery store and talk to the locals. Visit the residential neighborhoods and try to imagine what it would be like to really live there.

Once you know where you want to go, it?s simply a matter of doing it. However, a big move can be stressful. You can make the process easier by reserving your truck online ahead of time through a website like?www.pensketruckrental.com, a site that also provides moving tips, discounts, information about major metropolitan areas and other relocation resources.

Whether you?re seeking sunshine, better job opportunities, affordable real estate or you simply have the moving bug, relocating is a great way to get a fresh start.

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