Texas Boom: 668,300 New Residents and Celebrity Moves Highlight State’s Growing Appeal
Staff Editor Texas Emerges as Top Destination for Movers, Including Celebrities
Texas has solidified its position as one of the most sought-after destinations for Americans on the move, attracting residents from all walks of life with its business-friendly climate and lower cost of living. The Lone Star State’s appeal has even reached Hollywood, with high-profile celebrities like supermodel Bella Hadid and actress Emma Stone joining the ranks of those relocating to Texas.
Known as the birthplace of iconic figures such as Beyoncé, Michael Strahan, Selena Gomez, and Reneé Zellweger, Texas boasts a rich cultural heritage. The state is home to the Dallas Cowboys football team and hosts internationally renowned events like South by Southwest (SXSW). Its affordability, absence of state income tax, and pro-business environment have made it increasingly attractive to both individuals and companies.
Recent migration trends highlight Texas’s growing popularity. According to a Business Insider analysis of the Census Bureau’s 2022 American Community Survey, over 668,300 people moved to Texas between 2021 and 2022. This influx positions Texas as the second-most popular destination in the United States for movers, trailing only behind Florida.
The celebrity migration to Texas reflects a broader trend of wealth realignment in the country, with high-profile individuals seeking areas where their money stretches further and the climate is more favorable. Supermodel Bella Hadid’s move to Fort Worth, where she now resides with her professional horseman boyfriend, Adan Banuelos, exemplifies this shift. Hadid has embraced a simpler lifestyle, focusing on her mental and physical health while managing her Lyme Disease diagnosis.
Tech mogul Elon Musk made headlines when he announced his move to Texas in 2020, subsequently relocating two of his companies, X and SpaceX, to the state. Tesla followed suit in 2021. Oscar-winning actress Emma Stone and her husband David McCary purchased a multi-million-dollar property in Austin in 2022, shortly after the birth of their first child.
Other notable celebrities who have made Texas their home include podcast host Joe Rogan, actor Matthew McConaughey, and James Van Der Beek. These stars cite various reasons for their moves, ranging from family considerations to a desire for more space and a connection with nature.
As Texas continues to attract a diverse array of new residents, including high-profile celebrities, its reputation as a top destination for those seeking a change of scenery and lifestyle shows no signs of waning.
