In an Economy Marked by Uncertainty, Gold Delivers Lasting Protection and Freedom
For generations, Americans were known for their willingness to pick up and move — whether to a new city, a better job, or a larger home. That mobility fueled economic growth and gave workers the flexibility to pursue opportunity wherever it appeared. But today, that dynamism is slipping away. In fact, new data show Americans are moving at around the lowest rate on record.
At the same time, the country is grappling with a sluggish housing market, fewer job opportunities, and the lingering effects of higher interest rates. In an era of uncertainty, many are turning to gold — an asset that, unlike workers or housing markets, isn’t stuck in place.
A Nation on Pause
U.S. Census Bureau figures show that only 7.8% of Americans moved in 2023 — the lowest share since records began in 1948. That number held relatively steady in 2024. By comparison, in the 1950s and ’60s, about 20% of Americans typically moved each year.
The biggest slowdown has been in local moves, with a roughly 47% decline over the past three decades. Families who once upgraded to larger homes or downsized after children left the nest are staying put, largely because of higher mortgage rates and limited housing supply.
Economists warn that this frozen housing market clogs the system: growing families can’t move up, empty-nesters can’t move down, and first-time buyers are locked out entirely.
Job Market Stagnation
The job market reflects a similar pattern. Hiring, quitting, and job-switching activity has fallen to its lowest level since 2009, outside of the initial COVID-19 downturn. Fewer workers are voluntarily leaving jobs, a trend some analysts call “job hugging” — holding onto positions for security rather than advancement.
This lack of movement has ripple effects. Workers who stay in the same role tend to see slower wage growth, while new entrants, especially recent graduates, struggle to get a foothold. Employers, meanwhile, face challenges filling roles when candidates are unwilling or unable to relocate.
University of Chicago economist Chang-Tai Hsieh shared with the Wall Street Journal that when workers don’t move to where the best jobs are, overall U.S. productivity and even GDP growth suffer.
Why Gold Matters in Stagnant Times
When economic opportunity feels locked down, gold offers investors a way to stay flexible. Unlike real estate, which ties up capital in a fixed location, or employment markets, which can stall, physical gold moves with you. It provides liquidity, stability, and protection against forces outside your control — from stalled wages to inflationary pressures driven by government spending.
Gold doesn’t need a booming housing market or a fluid job market to hold its value. In fact, it often performs best in uncertain environments where other options are constrained.
The Bottom Line
Economic and geographic mobility have long been pillars of the American story. But with mortgage rates elevated, housing supply tight, and fewer job openings available, the U.S. economy is entering a period of immobility. This has consequences for workers, families, and companies alike.
Gold, however, remains unshaken. It has always been a hedge against uncertainty — and in today’s stagnant economy, it may be one of the few assets still offering freedom of movement and peace of mind.
About Reagan Gold Group
At Reagan Gold Group, we help Americans protect their wealth by diversifying with physical gold and silver. With decades of combined experience, our team specializes in rolling over retirement accounts into precious metals IRAs and delivering secure, IRS-approved bullion directly to our clients. In times of economic uncertainty, we believe owning gold isn’t just a safeguard — it’s a strategy for financial peace of mind.
Book your FREE consultation today!
