According to a recent Pew Research survey, Denver, San Diego, Seattle, Orlando, and Tampa top a list of thirty cities as America's most popular cities (and I think they mean big cities, Knoxville doesn't make the list). Detroit, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Kansas City, and Minneapolis fall at the bottom of the list. The survey results support government data indicating "Americans are leaving the Northeast and the Midwest in favor of the South and the West". Although, it appears people are moving less than ever. Forty-six percent of respondents would rather live elsewhere, but are staying put.

Then, there is the study by the Milken Institute and Greenstreet Real Estate Partners of Best Performing Cities, which "ranks U.S. metropolitan areas by how well they are creating and sustaining jobs and economic growth". Sixteen of the top 25 best performing cities are in the South (if you include Texas). The Nashville metro area ranks at 22nd. Raleigh/Cary, NC, is second on the list with Huntsville, AL at 5th, Wilmington, NC at 6th, Charleston metro area at 10th, and Orlando at 11th. Knoxville metro area is ranked 60th, which is not bad, better than Chattanooga at 110th and Memphis at 144th.

I wish they would stop doing these surveys and research. It's too crowded down here in the South as it is. How am I supposed to find my ideal hideaway with the millions from the North East and Mid West invading my space? Just kidding!