Americans have historically shown a willingness to move for work, and the economy has often benefitted as a result.  But according to the latest figures on mobility in the US from the Census Bureau, fewer Americans moved last year than in any year since 1962, when the total US population was 120 million people smaller than it is now.  Sam Roberts of the New York Times reports on the findings.  And while the lack of mobility is a not-so-surprising result of the economic downturn, it could also delay recovery:

Experts said the lack of mobility was of concern on two fronts. It suggests that Americans were unable or unwilling to follow any job opportunities that may have existed around the country, as they have in the past. And the lack of movement itself, they said, could have an impact on the economy, reducing the economic activity generated by moves.

Joseph S. Tracy, research director of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, said the lack of mobility meant less income for movers and the people they employ and less spending on renovation and on durable goods like appliances. But, Dr. Tracy said, the most troubling prospect is that people were no longer able to relocate for work.

“The thing that would be of deeper concern is if job-related moves are getting suppressed and workers are not getting re-sorted to the jobs that best use their skills,” he said. “As the labor market started to improve, if mobility stays low, you can worry about the allocation of workers.”

Roberts discussed the report on The Takeaway with John Hockenberry and Katherine Lanpher.  Listen to their conversation here.  And read As Housing Market Dips, More in U.S. Are Staying Put here.