Embodiments are directed to progressively migrating source computer nodes where the source computer nodes perform a computer-implemented service. In one embodiment, a computer system determines that execution of the performed service is to be migrated from the source computer nodes to target computer nodes. The computer system groups the source computer nodes into multiple source subgroups, where each source subgroup includes at least one source computer node. The computer system then schedules creation of target subgroups of target nodes. These target subgroups include at least one source computer node and, themselves, correspond to a source subgroup. The computer system activates a first target subgroup corresponding to a first source subgroup, and deactivates the first source subgroup. In this manner, the first target subgroup replaces the first source subgroup. Still further, the target subgroups are scheduled to be created only after the first source subgroup has been deactivated.