Recent national headlines brought welcome attention to our region. A United Van Lines study ranked Oregon as the top inbound state in the country, with Eugene–Springfield named the number one metro area nationwide for inbound moves. While no single report tells the whole story, the broader data confirms something important: people are choosing to move here.

According to U.S. Census Bureau migration estimates for 2024, Oregon experienced positive net domestic migration, adding nearly 5,000 more residents from other states than it lost. As Damon Runberg, Economist with Business Oregon, explains, this reflects a meaningful signal about Oregon’s appeal.

“That is a positive trend,” Runberg says. “It shows that Oregon was an attractive destination to move in 2024.”

For Eugene and Springfield, this trend reflects a combination of factors that continue to set the region apart. People move where opportunity exists, and historically, Oregon performs well on that front.

“Generally, Oregon is good at attracting people to move here when economic opportunity exists,” Runberg notes.

That opportunity looks different today than it did a decade ago. Eugene–Springfield offers a unique blend of career pathways, entrepreneurship, livability, and community connection that is increasingly hard to find in larger, more expensive metros. Access to higher education, a growing innovation economy, proximity to nature, and a strong sense of place all play a role in why people choose to relocate here.

As Oregon now relies primarily on net migration for population growth, understanding these trends matters more than ever.

“Since Oregon now relies solely on net migration for population growth there is increased attention on these figures,” Runberg explains.

For Lane County, the question is not simply how many people are moving here, but how we maintain the momentum. The answer sits at the intersection of workforce development, industry leadership, entrepreneurship, and collaboration within sectors.

These answers will be front and center at the Community Collaborative & Industry Luncheon presented by Summit Bank on April 1, where Damon Runberg will serve as emcee. Damon will go beyond the headlines to unpack what the data really tells us about migration, workforce trends, and economic opportunity in Lane County. This luncheon is a chance to hear directly from one of Oregon’s leading economists, alongside regional leaders, about what is coming next and how we prepare for it together.

Tickets are limited and registration is now open!

PUT YOUR BUSINESS FRONT & CENTER

Join the companies driving regional progress, purchase a table or become a sponsor!

See available Sponsorship opportunities HERE or reach out to Caitlin Vargas - caitlin@collaborativeedo.org for more information.