Catawba County ranked among ten most desirable counties in US
By Sam Kirk
Catawba County ranked seventh in “highest migration interest” of all counties in the United States in 2025, according to a report from the U.S. News & World Report.
The report, published in late January, uses online search data to determine the most sought-after states and counties for migrating individuals.
The report reads, “Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains northwest of Charlotte, [Catawba County] offers beautiful surroundings with mountains, the 180-mile Catawba River and three large lakes, including the popular vacation and retirement spot [Lake Norman].”
Of the top ten counties named in the report, four are in North Carolina, including the number one ranked Brunswick County, located just south of Wilmington.
North Carolina was also ranked as the fourth most popular state for relocation by the same report, with South Carolina ranked number one.
The data reflects a larger trend of increased migration to the southeastern United States.
“The Southern region of the U.S. has by far the most sought-after relocation destinations in our research,” the report reads. “Mild temperatures, coastal living and year-round outdoor activities are likely driving this interest, though lower costs of living, with more affordable housing, may also factor into this.”
Catawba County’s population grew 1.24% in 2025, and North Carolina’s by 1.47%, according to World Population Review, ranking among the most rapidly growing areas in the country.