Ryan Serhant, founder and CEO of SERHANT., discussed shifting patterns in American migration, emphasizing that the narrative of mass exodus from major cities to states like Florida and Texas overlooks the economic realities influencing where families and capital settle. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Serhant argued that state policies affecting homebuyers' finances and quality of life are the true drivers behind migration trends, with capital increasingly flowing into secondary markets that offer better job growth, lower tax burdens, and robust infrastructure [1].
Serhant noted that, contrary to popular belief, wealth is not simply leaving major cities but is instead multiplying, as more clients now own multiple homes than ever before. He stated, "Markets have actually just become bigger," with individuals seeking access to great cities without necessarily residing in their centers. This trend has benefited both individuals and real estate assets, as people expand their holdings and stretch geographic boundaries [1].
SERHANT. has recently expanded its brokerage operations into Texas and Colorado, marking its presence in 17 states. The firm also operates in luxury markets in South Florida, including Palm Beach, Miami, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, and Fort Lauderdale, where luxury home prices have risen sharply. Serhant highlighted regional migration growth in inland hubs such as Huntsville, Alabama, which has experienced an 8.7% population increase since 2020 [1].
Citing U.S. Census estimates, Serhant pointed out that Texas and Florida led the nation in numeric population growth from 2024 to 2025, while secondary markets like the Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia metro area also posted strong gains, ranking fifth nationally for numeric growth. He also mentioned that New York lost about 12,000 residents last year, which he described as a warning sign rather than a crisis. Notably, Serhant revealed that Florida ranked only eighth in domestic net migration last year, contrary to common perceptions [1].
CONCLUSION
Ryan Serhant's analysis suggests that the U.S. migration story is more nuanced than commonly portrayed, with secondary markets and inland hubs emerging as significant beneficiaries of capital and population growth. While Texas and Florida remain top destinations, the expansion of wealth into multiple markets and the rise of secondary cities are reshaping the real estate landscape.