The Charleston metro continues to gain national attention as a destination of choice. In U-Haul’s newly released 2025 Growth Index, Charleston ranked No. 7 among U.S. metro areas, climbing six spots from No. 13 in 2024 and reinforcing the region’s long-term growth momentum.

The U-Haul Growth Index ranks metropolitan areas based on net gains of one-way customers moving into a region, drawing from more than 2.5 million transactions across the U.S. and Canada, according to U-Haul Growth Index: Top U.S. Growth Metros and Cities of 2025 Announced.

Charleston ranks alongside some of the nation’s fastest-growing metros, including Dallas, Houston, Austin, Charlotte, Raleigh, Atlanta, Nashville and Phoenix. Many of these regions share similar growth dynamics, particularly in the Southeast, where population inflows continue to reshape labor markets, housing demand and infrastructure needs.

For the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, the data offers more than a ranking. It provides insight into who is moving here and what that means for the region’s future.

“There are two key reasons we pay close attention to this ranking,” said Kevin Sheilley, President & CEO of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce. “First, it tells us who is moving here. Many U-Haul customers are young people, which signals that the Charleston region continues to attract young professionals and emerging talent, fueling our economy today. Second, these new residents represent future homebuyers and families, shaping our region well into the future.”

As Charleston’s population continues to grow, the Chamber remains focused on ensuring that growth translates into opportunity. Through business advocacy, the Chamber works to shape policies that support a competitive economy and smart, sustainable development. Workforce development efforts help ensure employers have access to the talent they need, while business creation initiatives strengthen the pipeline of entrepreneurs and small businesses driving innovation across the region. Together, these priorities help position Charleston to grow in a way that supports businesses, communities and long-term regional success.