Alaska second most popular destination.

While the latest reports may suggest that the weak U.S. economy is recovering, Americans are still on the move, and in 2003, Alaska was the second most attractive state for inbound population changes, according to Allied Van Lines' 36th Annual Magnet States Report.

"The 36th Annual

Allied Van Lines Magnet States Report helps track U.S. migration patterns and determine what is drawing people to specific markets," says Mike Fergus, president, moving services, SIRVA Inc., a global relocation services provider. "While the 2003 report reveals that no demographic area is dominant in terms of attracting new people, it does indicate that Americans are on the move despite an unstable economy."

Attracting the largest percentage of inbound moves serviced by Allied last year (69.1 percent), Vermont reclaimed its position as most "attractive" state, a title it held in 2001. Alaska ranked second highest inbound state (68.3 percent), followed by Montana (67.7 percent), Arkansas (67.4 percent) and Mississippi (60.7 percent).