America is game of survival. Newcomers need skills to find a job AND place to raise family. Selection of a safe place for a relatively long time is key, because housing is still big saving vehicle for working people. You got to know your surrounding and how likely it changes over time
I don’t assume newcomers are looking to work or buy a home; some are, others aren’t - they are looking for “free” housing, food, and public schools courtesy of the US taxpayer. Dying states are happy to offer these things - chasing out the remaining employers and many workers with the high associated costs.