Economist Mark J. Perry frequently gives updates on U-Haul “One Way” truck rental prices as a form of an economic indicator of where people are moving too. U-Haul truck rental prices show how prices are affected by demand. Here is an example that he posted in May of this year:

Check out the Amazing Price Differentials for One-Way U-Haul 26-Foot Truck Rentals:

Chicago to Houston: $2,588
Houston to Chicago: $473
Ratio: 5.5 to 1

Chicago to Dallas: $2,460
Dallas to Chicago: $636
Ratio: 3.9 to 1

Obvisously there is greater demand in people wanting to move out of Chicago then moving to it along with the fact that trucks leaving Chicago is massive. He also addresses “perfect price parity” for doubters of this economic data.

Here’s an example of almost perfect price parity, suggesting almost a perfect balance in one-way U-Haul 26-foot truck rentals in each direction.

Los Angeles to Chicago: $3,878
Chicago to Los Angeles: $3,869

Mark Perry can be followed at his website and Twitter page.