Americans are leaving certain states behind in search of better economic opportunities, lower living costs, and improved quality of life. Rising taxes, shrinking job markets, and unaffordable housing are pushing many to seek new beginnings elsewhere. Several states are experiencing rapid population declines as residents move to more favorable environments.
In 2023, California experienced a net loss of over 500,000 residents, highlighting one of the highest out-migration rates in the nation.
These trends reveal shifts across the U.S. Keep reading to discover which states are losing residents and the reasons behind their decisions.
California
With housing costs soaring above $700,000 on average, Californians are packing up and leaving. The state’s high taxes and cost of living are pushing residents to seek affordable lifestyles elsewhere. Many are trading their California dream for states with lower costs and fewer financial pressures.
West Virginia
West Virginia is losing residents due to a lack of economic opportunities and a declining coal industry. Once a powerhouse of American industry, the state is struggling to keep its population from shrinking. Many West Virginians are relocating to states with more diverse and robust economies.
Mississippi
Mississippi’s high poverty rate and limited job opportunities are causing many residents to leave the state. The lack of economic growth and persistent social challenges make it difficult for people to see a future in the state, leading to a steady outflow of residents moving to states with better prospects.
Hawaii
Hawaii’s paradise appeal is no longer enough to keep residents from leaving, as the state’s high cost of living and isolation become too much to bear. The expense of everyday goods and housing has driven many to move to the mainland. Despite its natural beauty, Hawaii’s economic challenges are pushing people to seek better opportunities elsewhere.
Alaska
Alaska is seeing residents leave due to its isolation, harsh winters, and limited economic opportunities outside of the oil industry. The state’s high cost of living and remote location make it difficult for many to stay, especially as job opportunities dwindle. People are moving to the lower 48 in search of milder climates and accessible job markets.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island, the smallest state, is losing residents due to high taxes and a lack of affordable housing. The cost of living has become unsustainable for many, prompting them to move to states with lower expenses. Slow economic growth has made it hard to retain young professionals and retirees.
New York
As New Yorkers grapple with some of the highest taxes in the country, they’re choosing to leave the Empire State behind. The shift became more pronounced during the pandemic, as remote work allowed residents to escape the high costs and congested cities. With harsh winters and an expensive cost of living, many are opting for a relaxed and affordable life in the South or Midwest.
Illinois
Illinois is seeing a significant exodus, particularly from Chicago, due to crippling property taxes and fiscal instability. Residents are drawn to nearby states with lower taxes and better economic prospects. The population decline is most severe in rural areas, where opportunities have become scarce.
New Jersey
New Jersey’s high property taxes and cost of living are driving residents to seek greener pastures. The Garden State’s proximity to New York City kept it thriving, but that wasn’t enough to keep people from moving out. Former New Jerseyans are relocating to states where the money goes further and the quality of life is higher.
Michigan
Once the heart of the American auto industry, Michigan is seeing a steady stream of residents leaving for more prosperous states. The decline in manufacturing jobs and high unemployment rates are pushing people to move elsewhere in search of better opportunities. Cities like Detroit have struggled to retain residents, leading to a population decrease over the years.
Ohio
Ohio’s population decline is driven by a shrinking job market and aging infrastructure. The state has struggled to keep up with the economic growth seen in other parts of the country, leading many to seek opportunities in states like Texas and Florida. Despite its central location, Ohio is losing its appeal as a place to settle down and build a future.
Connecticut
Connecticut’s high cost of living and tax burden are making it an unattractive place to live. Residents are leaving the state in favor of warmer climates and lower taxes in states like Florida and North Carolina. The outflow is noticeable among retirees and young professionals looking for better financial prospects.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is losing residents due to economic stagnation and a lack of job opportunities. The state’s manufacturing sector has declined, leaving many areas without the economic engine they relied on. Pennsylvanians are moving to states with more vibrant economies and growing industries.
Massachusetts
Despite its reputation for education and healthcare, Massachusetts is seeing residents leave due to high housing costs and taxes. The Boston area has become too expensive, prompting a move to more affordable states. The trend is strong among younger people who are looking for a better quality of life elsewhere.
Louisiana
Louisiana is experiencing a population decline as residents seek to escape frequent natural disasters and a struggling economy. Hurricanes and flooding have made the state a difficult place to live, leaving many moving to areas with more stability and economic opportunity. The oil industry’s downturn has contributed to the state’s shrinking population.
Vermont
Vermont’s population is declining as residents leave in search of better job opportunities and warmer climates. The state’s rural charm is overshadowed by a lack of economic growth and a harsh winter climate. Vermonters are relocating to states that offer more robust job markets and milder weather.
New Mexico
New Mexico is losing residents due to a sluggish economy and a lack of job diversity. Reliance on government jobs and natural resources hasn’t provided enough opportunities to keep people from leaving. Many are moving to neighboring states like Texas and Arizona where job prospects and economic growth are stronger.
Alabama
Alabama’s outflow of residents is driven by a combination of economic stagnation and poor education outcomes. The state’s economy hasn’t kept pace with the rest of the country, leading many to seek better opportunities elsewhere. Concerns about the quality of education are pushing families to move to states with stronger school systems.
Kentucky
Kentucky is experiencing a population decline as residents move to states with dynamic economies and better job prospects. The state’s reliance on agriculture and manufacturing hasn’t provided the same growth seen in other regions, leading to an outflow of young professionals. Many Kentuckians are relocating to Tennessee and Georgia in search of better opportunities.
Missouri
Missouri is seeing a steady decline in population as residents seek better economic prospects and a higher quality of life elsewhere. The state’s slow job growth and lower wages are pushing people to move to more prosperous areas. This is noticeable in rural parts of Missouri where economic opportunities are dwindling.
Wisconsin
Cold winters and slow economic growth are driving residents to leave Wisconsin for warmer climates and better job prospects. The state’s dairy industry, once a major economic driver, has faced challenges, leading to a decline in rural populations. Many Wisconsinites are moving to states with diverse economies and less severe weather.
