Rise of the Outpost Economy

Millions of Americans made a move this year. That in and of itself is not uncommon — more than 30 million people pick up and move on an annual basis.

What is unusual about this year is the increased flexibility millions of professionals have realized because of a changing economy and a months-long pandemic. Remote work is no longer an exception to the rule — it has become a new norm for people around the country. Companies from Twitter to Nielsen to Facebook to Nationwide Insurance have announced indefinite plans for remote work. Countless others are giving employees months to continue to work remotely. 

This has provided people who have been thinking about moving from major metropolitan areas the opportunity of a lifetime — they can pack up and move elsewhere and, in many cases, keep their current position. Whether it’s more affordable housing, easy access to outdoor activities, attractive amenities or just for a change of pace, some people with the ability to do so are picking up and moving from primary markets. They are not moving to a place specifically because a job is bringing them to that region. Rather, they are making conscious decisions about where they want to live — and their work follows.

Download our report on the Outpost Economy to learn more about the sweeping impact this trend is having on real estate, employers and cities.