15 U.S. States People Are Poised to Flee in 2025
Migration is part of the American story, like a muscle car or a Fourth of July barbecue. There have been historical reasons to move, such as to find a better-paying job, more opportunities, or warmer weather. However, in recent years, migration patterns have provided a cheat sheet for how Americans choose where to settle.
According to a 2024 study by TimeOut, Massachusetts (even though it is on this list) is the best state to live in. It has the lowest rate of premature death and the lowest percentage of adults with fair or poor health. With 2025 on the horizon, data suggests 15 U.S. states will see an exodus. This list unpacks the reasons behind these outflows and what they mean for those states.
California
Last year, the land of opportunity and golden dreams became the nation’s leader in outmigration. However, census data shows about 75,000 residents left the state between 2022 and 2023. Why are so many leaving? The primary culprit is the unaffordable cost of living. In areas like San Francisco or Los Angeles, the cost is three times the national average, and median home prices exceed $1 million in other areas.
Residents say high state income taxes and an ever-increasing cost of necessities, including energy and food, have also caused them to seek greener, cheaper pastures. Some Californians are heading nearby to Nevada and Arizona, while others are relocating out of state to tax-friendly Texas and Florida.
New York
New York may have the Statue of Liberty, but fewer people seem willing to “stay here yearning.” A Census Bureau report showed New York losing more people than any other state, with more than 100,000 residents leaving in just one year.
This trend is mainly due to housing costs, inclement weather, and high taxes. Residents frequently relocate to Florida, often called New York’s “sixth borough,” but they’re also heading to New Jersey and Pennsylvania for more space and lower taxes.
Illinois
For years, the state known as the Land of Lincoln has seen its population decline for eight years in a row, and Chicago often ranked high among the cities people were going to. With the second-highest property taxes in the US and the cost of living as it is, it’s no wonder residents are fleeing.
Residents also cite Chicago’s political instability and growing safety concerns as reasons for leaving the state. However, many former Illinoisans are not settling for it and have sought refuge in nearby Indiana or left for down south in Tennessee or Texas.
Massachusetts
Of course, Boston has its well-known clam chowder and famous universities, but it is also one of the most expensive cities in America. Rising utility costs and a hot housing market are key concerns for Massachusetts residents.
Many who leave choose other tax-friendly states, like Florida or New Hampshire next door, with a more relaxed pace of life.
Washington
Seattle, famous for its coffee culture and tech boom, is experiencing a significant exodus of its citizens. High housing costs and worsening traffic are pushing people away. Beyond that, some point to rising crime rates and the area’s persistently gray weather as reasons they’ve left.
One place folks from Washington often move to is Idaho, which, along with Colorado and Texas, offers a blend of affordability and sunshine.
Oregon
Like its northern neighbor, Oregon has also seen a lessening of growth rates. A cold, snowy climate, a lack of affordable housing, exorbitant tax rates, and an ever-polarized political landscape make Oregon feel like a placeholder to many forsaking the state.
They are leaving for places on the ‘other coast’ that are less of a rollercoaster ride. Oregonians heading for the exits are still a hit in Idaho and Nevada.
Louisiana
Louisiana’s outmigration is steady partly due to America’s lack of economic opportunities, natural disasters like hurricanes, and rising sea levels.
In addition, these factors can be combined with the challenges of the education system and the issue of health care access to create another reason for residents to move. The more popular alternatives include Texas, Georgia, and Tennessee.
Oklahoma
Low wages and few jobs currently being created have pushed the people of Oklahoma out of the state, even if they live in the most central parts of the Sooner State. Besides affordability, jobs and education push people to neighboring states like Texas.
North Dakota
North Dakota has some beautiful landscapes, but its cold winters and lack of work outside the energy sector drive some people nuts. For example, many prefer warmer states with diversified economies, such as Arizona and Colorado.
Alaska
For years, the Last Frontier has lured adventurous souls. However, its harsh climate and isolated geography caused many residents to leave.
According to the Alaska Department of Labor, the high cost of living and scarcity of job opportunities also contribute to outmigration. Most who leave Alaska end up in Washington or California.
Michigan
Despite economic revitalizers such as those in Detroit, Michigan, the city has been unable to retain many citizens.
Michiganders tend to get caught up in weather and infrastructure troubles, and job prospects often see them relocated to states such as Ohio, Texas, and Florida.
Kentucky
Kentucky seems to have steady outmigration, economic stagnation, and a lack of opportunity. People often move to an adjoining state, Ohio or Indiana, for better jobs and education.
New Mexico
New Mexico’s fantastic landscape contrasts its high poverty rates and underfunded education systems. When residents move to Texas or Arizona, they seek economic stability and job prospects.
Pennsylvania
Despite a rich history and a proud cultural heritage, Pennsylvania faces a dwindling industry and workforce. The pull for affordable living continues in Ohio and Maryland.
West Virginia
Last, West Virginia remains a state in population decline because of a lack of jobs, healthcare, and infrastructure. Of course, neighboring states such as Pennsylvania and Virginia have stronger economies and greater opportunities.
But where are people going? Florida, Texas, North Carolina, and Georgia always come out as top destination states for people looking for affordability, job opportunities, and lower tax burdens.
Interstate migration patterns provide a snapshot of what Americans value—affordability, lifestyle, and opportunity. It is essential for businesses, policymakers, and people looking to plot their next steps to understand these trends. Don’t despair if your state is on this list. This data also represents opportunities for growth and innovation. It is for those governments to get better at making quality of life good and affordable, for businesses to see where community connections are untapped, and for individuals to chase their ambitions just about anywhere.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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