Why are so many residents leaving New York and New Jersey?

NY, NJ residents continue to move out of states

The annual United Van Lines National Movers study is out for 2024, and it wasn't good news for New York or New Jersey.

NEW YORK - The annual United Van Lines National Movers study is out for 2024, and it wasn't good news for New York or New Jersey . . . again.

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The Garden State ranked first on the list of "Moving Out" states for the 7th straight year, with New York listed as third.

JERSEY CITY, NJ - MAY 18: The sun sets on the skyline of midtown Manhattan and the Empire State Building in New York City as people walk along the Hudson River on March 18, 2023, in Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)

"As housing costs continue to rise, Americans are moving to lower density, more affordable regions between expensive, economic-driving states," said Michael A. Stoll, economist and professor in the Department of Public Policy at the University of California, Los Angeles.

New Jersey

For the seventh consecutive year, more residents moved out of New Jersey than any other state, reporting a 67% outbound migration. The top motivations were driven primarily by those looking to retire (22%) and wanting to be closer to family (20%).

Photo credit: United Van Lines

New York

New York reported a 59% outbound migration, with the top motivations being family (26%) and retirement (21%).

Photo credit: United Van Lines

Most moved out states

The top outbound states for 2024 were:

New Jersey
Illinois
New York
California
Massachusetts
North Dakota
Wyoming
Mississippi
Nebraska

"The annual study highlights how economic disruptions, including inflation and a nationwide housing affordability crisis, are reshaping where and why Americans choose to move," United Van Lines Vice President of Corporate Communications Eily Cummings said. "Movers are discovering that there are numerous cities and regions where they can achieve both economic relief and a rich, rewarding life experience."

JERSEY CITY, NJ - APRIL 22: The sun rises behind the skyline of lower Manhattan and One World Trade Center as geese feed in a field in Liberty State Park on April 22, 2024, in Jersey City, New Jersey. (Photo by Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)