Writing that headline was a gut punch. A 'no warning, look you right in the eye, shot to the stomach' that leaves you bent over and gasping for air. The fact that 'Gen X' and 'starting a new life' not only are in but belong in a sentence together. The cold, hard truth is that Gen X has reached early retirement age, relocation is being discussed, and Michigan is one of their top ten destinations in the US.

While the math checks out, it still doesn't seem possible that the last generation to see ample daylight may have reached the age of 'Those darn kids are on the lawn, again' or 'If we don't worry, we'll miss Wheel!'

 Gen Xer's Ditching Home States For a 'Fresh Start'

A Generation X couple sits on the porch of their retirement home
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StorageCafe did the research and revealed that in 2022 alone, 1.1 million Gen Xers moved from one state to another. What's fueling this migration of those born between 1965 and 1980 (which makes the youngest of us in their mid-40s—ouch)? For most, it's a fresh start.

That fresh start can be motivated by a better housing market, economy, job conditions, or placing roots for retirement in a more preferred climate. What's interesting is how different Gen X'es wish lists for a place to spend their Golden Years vary wildly from their parents, the Boomers.

Gen X Still Seeking 'Space' From Parents

A person stands on a sidewalk with the words 'Generation X' and the outlines of several states with questions marks as well.
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Before we get to Gen X's top 'Fresh Start' destinations, let's look at the Boomer's top five, according to 247WallSt:

  1. California
  2. Virginia
  3. North Carolina
  4. Florida
  5. Tennessee

While three of the Boomer destinations are in the Gen X top ten, the other two didn't. Let's see which states did.

Gen X's Top 10 'Fresh Start' Cities in America

The 'Where Can I Put This?' experts at StorageCafe.com have compiled a list of the top ten states attracting the most new residents from other states born between 1965 and 1980. Here's a look at Gen X's Top 10 'Fresh Start' Cities.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

And on the opposite end of the spectrum, here's a look at the best cities in America for first time home buyers.

America's Top 100 Cities For First-Time Home Buyers 2024

Looking for the perfect city for first-time home buyers in your state? Which city offers the bang for your budget in the country? To find the answer, the financial gurus at WalletHub looked at 3 key metrics: Affordability, Real Estate Market Rank, and Quality of Life. For WalletHub's full methodology, see the link in America's #1 City for First-Time Home Buyers 2024.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

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