Washington, D.C. most popular area for relocation in 2010

In 2010 there was an increase in Americans who decided to hire moving services and relocate, according to a survey by Atlas Van Lines.

Company president and COO Jack Griffin said the bump in moves could be a sign that the nation's economy is finally improving and that the survey is, "a great bellwether for the economic situation on the country."

Washington, D.C. had the highest number of inbound moves for the fifth year in a row, while states such as Kentucky, North Carolina and Maryland also gained more residents in 2010. Ohio had the highest percentage of outbound moves, while other Rust Belt states like Michigan and Indiana lost residents, possibly due to high rates of unemployment in those areas.

While Southeastern states like Florida, Alabama and Georgia suffered from dropping home values and foreclosures last year, they managed to hold onto their residents, remaining balanced in their number of inbound and outbound moves.

The federal home buyer tax credit may be responsible for the boost of home sales during the first half of the year. The Commerce Department reported a sharp decline in sales after the tax credit, which extended $8,000 to first time home buyers and $6,500 to repeat buyers, expired in May.

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