to upgrade despite not leaving for work. Why? Just because they want something bigger.
I'll be honest that I never understood the idea of a starter home. I've bought and lived in two different homes here in Utah, and each one I planned on being our forever home. Not because they were large or anything, but just because I figured you buy a home with a 30 year mortgage ... and you live in it for 30 years. So set down roots and get comfortable. Maybe I'll move again, but I don't plan to.
My point is that there is a psychological difference now in how we view homes, and I think that's true regardless of the need to sell and buy due to a new job in a new location. Even when people stay in one location, they seem to be always trying to upgrade.