The States Americans Are Choosing to Leave and The Places They’re Moving to Instead

The Empire State experienced a dramatic exodus in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, as residents sought refuge from their cramped and overcrowded apartments, yearning for the allure of spacious, verdant landscapes. While New York did slip down one rank in 2021, it managed to secure a place in the top three for states witnessing the most outbound moves.

Last year, the predominant reason for New Yorkers to bid farewell to the state was the heartfelt desire to be closer to family, accounting for a substantial 29.4% of departures. Retirement, following closely behind at 29%, also played a significant role in the exodus, driven largely by the exorbitant cost of living in the state. Many retirees set their sights on destinations like Florida, where the absence of state income tax beckons and where more affordable housing opportunities await,.