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Can you name the cities that Americans are moving to?

By Patricia Garcia

In 1960, George Wells told us that the boys were at Fort Lauderdale, Fla. In 2013, Penske Truck Rental tells us that the boys – and girls – are still coveting the beach and warm weather, but they’re also seeking out places that offer plenty of economic and entertainment opportunities. Here are the top 10 cities that Americans – more than 36 million of them – moved to in 2012, according to Penske data:

1. Atlanta – This is the third year Atlanta has claimed the top spot, and for good reason. Home to three professional sports franchises and thriving art, music and food scenes, Atlanta also has mild weather and plenty of green space. Attractions such as the Atlanta Botanical Garden continue to beckon tourists.

2. Dallas-Fort Worth – The DFW Metroplex has been repeatedly rated as one of the best places to do business by Forbes, no doubt in part to its large number of companies headquartered there. While Fort Worth’s abundance of museums rival those of Dallas, both the annual State Fair of Texas in Dallas and The Stockyards in Fort Worth celebrate each city’s Texas flavor.

3. Phoenix – It may be hot in Phoenix in the summer, but it is also pleasant the rest of the year. Warm temps invite outdoorsiness – hiking, biking and golfing – while a diverse economy helps attract many to this Southwest city. You can even catch spring training for 15 Major League Baseball teams.

4. Orlando, Fla. – Dubbed the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” it’s no secret Orlando has a strong tourism industry. Bet you didn’t know it is also has emerging technology and entertainment industries. Sure you can find resorts galore here, but you may also appreciate Orlando’s shopping malls and theaters.

5. Chicago – Not many cities can boast the international importance of the Windy City. When residents aren’t busy taking part in the international finance, commerce, and transportation fields, they can be found taking in the city’s famed architecture, theaters, shopping and restaurants.

6. Houston – The fourth-largest city in the country is known for its energy, biomedical research, and aeronautical industries. But it’s also home to the Menil Collection, which includes the meditative Rothko Chapel, and Discovery Green, a 12-acre LEED-certified urban park.

7. Denver – The outdoors rule here. In addition to this city’s 200 parks, Denver offers outdoor recreation year-round, whether it’s skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer. The Mile High City also offers plenty of breweries and many nationally recognized museums, to boot.

8. Seattle, Wash. – Known as a green city for more than one reason, Seattle attracts many startup companies and offers breathtaking views of Puget Sound and Lake Washington. The Space Needle and Pike Place Market round out the city’s many attractions, including museums and fine dining.

9. Charlotte, N.C. – A major U.S. financial hub and home to several Fortune 500 companies, Charlotte has been dubbed “The New Energy Capital” because of its large energy sector. It is also home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the U.S. National Whitewater Center, located on more than 400 acres of woodlands.

10. Sarasota, Fla. – The soft, white sands of Siesta Key Beach are one of the reasons this Gulf Coast city is on the mind of many Americans. Couple that with golf and art museums – including the state-of-the-art John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art – and you’ve got a burgeoning Florida hotspot.

Patricia Garcia is Content Manager for NewHomeSource.