There’s a region in the United States currently experiencing substantial growth predicted to continue. It’s called the Sunbelt States but we like to refer to them as the Smile States because of the smile shape they create.
Thanks to lower taxes, a lower cost of living, and favorable warm weather, the Southern half of the U.S. is taking the real estate industry by storm.
What are the Sunbelt states and why are they experiencing growth and an unprecedented pace? We have the answers, as well as information on why we invest in these states.
Let’s get to it!

What are the Sunbelt States?
The Sunbelt States are 15 states stretching across the southern part of the United States, from Florida to California. They got the name because of the warm climates each state has near the southern coast.
List of Sunbelt States
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Florida
- Georgia
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
The Sunbelt is home to some of the largest and fastest growing cities in the nation including LA, Miami, Austin, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Dallas, and Phoenix.
Typically known for its perfect climate, the Sunbelt states have been making waves recently from their population growth. Over the last two decades the Sunbelt states have seen consistent growth year over year.
But why are so many people moving to the Sunbelt states? Let’s find out.

Why People Are Moving to the Sunbelt States
Since the 1960s, people have been flocking to the Sunbelt states. Back then it was because that’s where a lot of the jobs were. 60 years later that’s still one of the reasons people are flocking to the warm weather but there’s more to it.
Some people are moving down South to enjoy their retirement and others simply to enjoy the weather.
We think people are moving because they are less restricted by their work. Pretty much everything about the pandemic was miserable, except for the change from working in office to remote.
People now have the flexibility to work from wherever they please as long as they have internet connection.
So, why not move somewhere warm and more affordable?
According to the statistics, that’s exactly what people are doing. As of 2019, the Sunbelt held roughly 50% of the national population. This number is predicted to rise to 55% by 2030.
Again, affordability could have a huge influence. The median home price in Seattle, one of the largest cities in the Northwest, is $702,000 while the median home price in Austin, arguably a more popular city, is only $465,000. That’s almost a $250,000 difference! These aren’t the only cities with drastic differences in home prices.
Charlotte, SC which is considered the largest financial city in the South has a median home price of $324,000. Compare that price to the largest financial city in the North, New York City and you’ll have to pick your jaw up off the floor. The median home price in NYC is $635,000! Almost a $300,000 difference!
Weather could play a factor for the drastic change in price as the cold harsh winters of the North increase maintenance costs.
Taxes could also play a role, Northern states typically have more and higher taxes than Southern states. Most Sunbelt states offer low to no corporate, individual, or property taxes.

Why We Invest in Sunbelt States
Keeping up with lasting real estate trends is crucial for investors. At Yieldi, we work hard to stay ahead of the curve by identifying long-term trends. One of the biggest trends we’ve seen since 2010 is the rise of Sunbelt migration.
In fact, the population growth in major cities averaged 9.5%. This is a massive influx compared to the 1.8% growth in the northeast and 3.0% growth in the Midwest. Over the past decade, these states are responsible for 75% of the U.S. population growth.
These 15 states continue to show promising growth in population and employment opportunities. It helps that most Sunbelt states also offer diverse opportunities in many industries. Seven of the top ten states for job growth are located in the Sunbelt region
Additionally, we invest in Sunbelt states because of less volatility. As previously mentioned, these states have seen slow and steady growth over the course of 10 years or more. The Sunbelt states even held value during the 2008 housing crisis.
Aside from affordability and steady economic growth, warmer weather is a major factor when moving to and investing in Sunbelt states. Less harsh winters make properties less expensive to maintain. In turn, lowering the price of real estate.
With more than half of all senior housing inventory located in the Sunbelt states, there’s a high demand for professionally managed rentals catering to retirees.
Start Investing in Growing Markets
As home and property owners look towards growing economies, the Sunbelt states show a promising future.
If you’re ready to make your first investment, set up your account with Yieldi. After completing your investor profile, you’ll be able to participate in our investment offerings located throughout the Sunbelt region.
We are investors ourselves and realized how difficult it was for everyday investors to access high-yield investments, that’s why we created Yieldi. To make investments that were once only available to a select group of people, easily accessible so everyday investors can reap the rewards too.
Check out our offerings to get started investing today.
If you want more information about our investing strategies and experience, contact our team. We are more than happy to help!