Markets where people are moving out create some of the most immediate, high-intent opportunities for home service contractors. Using insights from U-Haul’s Growth Index, alongside moveBuddha’s 2025-2026 Migration Report, we’re able to see how demand for service contractors shifts based on mover behavior.
Last week, we looked at how population growth and inbound migration are shaping where service demand is headed next, especially for movers and home service businesses in fast-growing states. This week, we’re taking a look at the other side of the equation.
Where People Moved Away From In 2025
According to moveBuddha’s Migration Report, which tracks both relocation search behavior and confirmed moves, several cities are seeing significantly more people leaving than arriving.
Cities with high out-migration or move-out interest in 2025 include:
- Bakersfield, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- Riverside, CA
- Fresno, CA
- Oceanside, CA
- Fremont, CA
- San Diego, CA
- Newark, NJ
- Fairfax, VA
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Manchester, NH
- North Las Vegas, NV
- Memphis, TN
- Dayton, OH
- Baton Rouge, LA
- Syracuse, NY
This city-level data lines up closely with U-Haul’s broader state trends, which continue to show outbound movement from states such as California, New York, New Jersey, and Illinois.
While these headlines could be viewed negatively, there is a critical point for service businesses: people preparing to move almost always need work done first.
Why Move-Out Markets Create High-Intent Service Demand
Before a homeowner lists a property or hands over keys, there’s usually a checklist to complete. Some examples of common move-out projects include:
- Fix leaks or plumbing issues
- Repair drywall, doors, or flooring
- Patch roofs or address inspection items
- Complete punch-list repairs
- Handle “make-ready” work for listings or move-outs
A to-do list like this creates a short but powerful window of demand for home service contractors. People searching during this time are often on a deadline, willing to pay for speed and reliability, and might be less price-sensitive than typical maintenance customers. This is especially true for trades like handyman services, plumbing, roofing, HVAC, and general contracting, where “make-ready” work is often non-negotiable.
The Mistake Contractors Make in Move-Out Markets
When contractors hear that population is declining, they may instinctively pull back. Marketing budgets shrink, visibility drops, and businesses assume demand will dry up.
In actuality, demand hasn’t vanished! It’s simply compressed. Move-out markets often see fewer long-term remodels or upgrades, but a spike in short-term, deadline-driven jobs.
Contractors who disappear during these moments miss a concentrated wave of opportunity. The businesses that stay visible are often rewarded with faster bookings and less price resistance.
How Contractors Should Market in Move-Out Cities
If you operate in a city with a high move-out rate, adjust your marketing strategy accordingly.
1. Boost Budgets Monthly (Not Seasonally)
Move-out demand isn’t tied to traditional seasonality. People move year-round based on jobs, leases, and life changes. Maintaining consistent visibility helps you show up when urgency hits.
2. Target “Before You Move” Searches
Ad messaging should speak directly to the moment:
- “Repairs Before Selling Your Home”
- “Quick Fixes Before Move-Out”
- “Inspection Repairs Done Fast”
- “Make-Ready Services for Home Sellers”
These searches convert because the intent is already there.
3. Align With Movers and Realtors
Out-migration markets create overlap between:
- Moving companies
- Real estate agents
- Contractors
Targeting homeowners preparing to move and working alongside movers and realtors creates a natural referral ecosystem.
4. Optimize for Speed and Trust
In move-out scenarios, homeowners care about:
- Availability
- Response time
- Reviews
- Clear scope and pricing
Marketing should emphasize fast scheduling, reliability, and experience.
Common Services Requested By Homeowners Before Moving Out
Services in demand before move-outs tend to be practical, required by inspections, and on a tight timeline. Understanding why people are calling helps contractors align services and marketing with the actual needs of their customers.
Handyman Services
- Drywall patching and hole repair
- Touch-up painting and scuff removal
- Door and cabinet adjustments
- Replacing damaged trim or baseboards
- Minor flooring repairs or transitions
- Fixture tightening or replacement
- Caulking tubs, sinks, and windows
Plumbing Services
- Fixing leaks (faucets, toilets, supply lines)
- Replacing outdated or non-compliant fixtures
- Clearing slow drains and clogs
- Water heater inspection or replacement
- Sewer line inspections or camera scopes
- Sewer or lateral repairs flagged during inspection
- Code-compliance fixes required before sale
- Permit-related plumbing corrections
Roofing Services
- Replacing missing or damaged shingles
- Repairing flashing or roof penetrations
- Fixing small leaks or soft spots
- Gutter repairs or cleanouts
- Roof inspection reports for buyers or lenders
- Minor structural or ventilation fixes
HVAC Services
- Pre-sale system inspections
- Tune-ups and maintenance before listing
- Repairing non-working units
- Thermostat replacements or calibration
- Airflow or duct issues flagged during inspection
- Providing service records or compliance documentation
General Contracting Services
- Coordinating multi-trade repair lists
- Addressing inspection punch lists in full
- Preparing properties for sale or turnover
- Make-ready services for landlords or sellers
- Minor remodels required for compliance
- Permit or inspection follow-ups
Marketing that emphasizes fast turnaround, reliability, and experience often performs better than long-term upgrade or branding-focused messaging in these markets.
Make Your Marketing Work For Your City’s Migration Trends
While inbound markets create growth through expansion, outbound markets create opportunity through urgency. Contractors who understand mover behavior know when to reposition themselves to fit the needs of their community.
At VIIRL, we help home service businesses adjust their marketing strategy based on how demand shifts. By taking data, targeting, and lead tracking into account, we help contractors create marketing strategies that keep them profitable, even in changing markets.
Curious how your marketing stacks up in a shifting market? Start with a free audit from VIIRL.
