In recent years, many U.S. states have experienced significant population shifts. While some regions continue to attract new residents, others are seeing a notable outflow of people. The reasons behind these trends are varied, ranging from economic challenges and rising living costs to extreme weather conditions.
Although states like Vermont and South Carolina are faring better than some of their neighbors, they still face similar issues that could impact their long-term population growth. This overview explores the situation in several states, highlighting why many people are choosing to leave or settle in new areas.
Montana’s Outbound Rate Hits 55%
The influx of people moving to Montana has finally started to taper off, much to the relief of locals who’ve watched the population boom drive up property prices in recent years. Despite this rapid growth, Montana remains largely rural, with vast stretches of untouched land but limited opportunities for high-paying jobs—certainly not enough to meet the demand.
However, with its stunning natural beauty and outdoor wonders, the state remains a magnet for those seeking a pristine lifestyle. While the growth may be slowing, a population decline still seems far off, if it happens at all.
Maryland’s – Outbound Rate Hits 53.1%
Maryland is facing challenges similar to those plaguing other New England states: soaring taxes and steep property prices are pushing residents to look elsewhere. Many retirees are opting to settle in more affordable regions, yet this exodus hasn’t led to a drop in home or apartment prices. As one of the smallest states in the U.S., Maryland is also grappling with limited space, further intensifying the issue.
After years of growth, the population dipped in 2023, signaling what could be the beginning of a prolonged decline unless significant efforts are made to lower the cost of living. The state may be on the brink of a demographic shift unless swift changes are enacted.
Michigan’s – Outbound Rate Hits 55%
Michigan finds itself in a curious predicament. The state offers an appealing mix of natural beauty, affordable real estate in once-thriving manufacturing cities like Detroit, and a wealth of activities to enjoy. Yet, despite these attractions, many young people are packing up and leaving in search of better job opportunities elsewhere.
This trend is particularly pronounced in rural areas, though Detroit, after years of population decline, has started to see a modest resurgence. However, the lingering shortage of high-paying jobs continues to drive graduates away, and until that changes, Michigan is likely to keep losing residents to other states.
Connecticut’s Outbound Rate Hits 62%
Connecticut has its share of appeal, depending on what you value in a place to call home. Once a haven for the nation’s wealthiest, the state now faces challenges in retaining its residents. Despite its affluent history, Connecticut is grappling with significant income inequality and a shortage of high-paying jobs.
The state is also losing many seniors, who either can’t afford to retire there or are seeking warmer climates with milder winters. These factors combined have led to a noticeable decline in population in recent years, as more and more people choose to leave the state behind.
New Jersey’s Outbound Rate Hits 66.8%
Of all the states on this list, New Jersey might evoke the most sympathy. The state often gets a bad reputation, which could be one reason it tops the list for outbound migration. Several factors are driving New Jersey’s population decline: birth rates have stagnated, and immigration from abroad has slowed.
Additionally, many residents are drawn to states offering better access to nature or warmer climates, prompting them to seek new opportunities elsewhere. These trends have contributed to the ongoing exodus from the Garden State.
Pennsylvania’s Outbound Rate Hits 52.6%
In Pennsylvania, one issue looms large for residents: the scarcity of well-paying jobs, particularly outside the major urban centers along the coast. This shortage has driven many to leave the state in search of better opportunities. Adding to the problem are the state’s relatively high taxes, which are expected to rise in the coming years, creating a perfect storm for outmigration.
With an unemployment rate of 5.4%, well above the national average, Pennsylvania has lost about 41,100 residents since 2020. The fact that only one region of the state isn’t experiencing population decline is a troubling sign for the future.
Ohio’s Outbound Rate Hits 56.5%
In 2023, Ohio experienced a slight uptick in population, but this comes after years of decline, and experts believe the state will continue to see residents leave in the future. The primary factor preventing a steeper population drop has been immigration from abroad. Like many Rust Belt states, Ohio is struggling with a dwindling supply of good jobs, which has driven many to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Additionally, Ohio’s harsh winters have prompted many nearing retirement to relocate to states with more favorable climates. These challenges make it likely that Ohio’s population will keep dwindling in the years ahead.
Wisconsin’s Outbound Rate Hits 54%
Wisconsin has always been predominantly rural, so its population has never been massive, but recent declines are raising concerns. Despite its rural nature, Wisconsin’s taxes are relatively high compared to other rural states, and the shortage of well-paying jobs has driven both working-age adults and retirees to seek better opportunities elsewhere.
The state’s harsh winters have also lost their appeal for many, prompting more residents to leave. However, Wisconsin’s overall population has only dipped slightly in recent years, and it was growing before this downturn, suggesting that a rebound might be on the horizon if conditions improve.
Virginia’s Outbound Rate Hits 51.6%
Northern Virginia, just outside Washington D.C., has managed to maintain or even grow its population in recent years, but the rest of the state hasn’t been as fortunate. Many of Virginia’s more rural areas are experiencing a significant outflow of residents, largely driven by economic challenges and a scarcity of well-paying jobs—a common issue nationwide. However, like many Southern states, Virginia has seen an influx of people relocating from major cities like New York, which has helped cushion the impact.
Without this migration, the population decline could have been much more severe. It remains uncertain whether Virginia will continue to lose residents or if the trend will eventually reverse.
Maine’s Outbound Rate Hits 50.6%
Much like its neighboring states, Maine is grappling with rising living costs, prompting both seniors and young people to seek out warmer climates and better job opportunities elsewhere. Despite these challenges, Maine remains a stunning place to call home, with its miles of scenic coastline and some of the finest seafood in the country.
However, enjoying these perks comes with a price, and the scarcity of well-paying jobs makes it difficult for many to afford the lifestyle. On the bright side, Maine is faring better than some of its neighbors, thanks in part to its size, which offers pockets of more affordable living.
Illinois’s Outbound Rate Hits 65.9%
Illinois has been experiencing a steady population decline for the past few years, and much of it can be attributed to the state’s challenging economic conditions. With an unemployment rate hovering around 4.8%, one of the highest in the nation, job opportunities are limited. This issue is compounded by Illinois’ notoriously high taxes, which consistently rank among the highest in the country.
Over the past five years, around 157,000 residents have left the state, a trend that’s become known as the “Illinois exodus.” With a planned increase in the minimum wage on the horizon, it remains to be seen whether this trend will persist or if the state can turn things around.
Minnesota’s Outbound Rate Hits 54.3%
Minnesota’s harsh winters are becoming increasingly difficult to endure, especially when combined with stagnating wages and a rising cost of living. Adding to the challenge, the state’s relatively high taxes aren’t making it any easier for residents to stay put. Yet, Minnesota still boasts stunning landscapes and a few vibrant cities that offer plenty of activities.
However, when it comes down to it, financial concerns are driving many to leave. On the bright side, recent population gains from other sources suggest the trend may stabilize, especially if officials take steps to address these key issues.
Utah’s Outbound Rate Hits 51.7%
Utah experienced a population boom in the early 2010s, but that momentum has significantly slowed, with many now leaving the state in search of better opportunities elsewhere. While Utah is home to some of the nation’s most breathtaking national parks, it lacks an abundance of high-paying jobs, particularly in the rural areas where they’re most needed.
Although growth has tapered off, Utah isn’t on the verge of a dramatic decline like North Dakota. The state still offers plenty to do and enough job opportunities to keep many residents anchored in its cities.
Massachusetts’s Outbound Rate Hits 55.7%
Massachusetts, though relatively small, has long maintained a robust population, but recent years have seen more residents opting to leave. Skyrocketing housing and rent prices, while a nationwide issue, have hit particularly hard in Massachusetts, making even a modest apartment unaffordable for many.
Despite these challenges, the state remains a hub for some of the nation’s top universities, which could help stabilize its population. With beautiful weather and scenery throughout most of the year—aside from the harsh winters—there’s hope that housing prices might level off, potentially slowing or even reversing the current decline.
Missouri’s Outbound Rate Hits 51%
Missouri, straddling the line between the South and the Midwest, enjoys the advantages of both regions but also bears their challenges. The state has recently seen several major factory closures, adding to the economic strain. Missouri endures the sweltering, humid summers typical of the South and the harsh winters common in the Midwest.
While much of the state is rural and boasts stunning natural beauty, well-paying jobs are scarce in these areas. Missouri is a bit of a mixed bag, offering a unique blend of attractions, yet it hasn’t consistently drawn many newcomers from outside its borders.
Louisiana’s Outbound Rate Hits 54.3%
Louisiana stands out as one of the few Southern states where the population is actually declining. While some people have moved to the state, many more are choosing to leave, worn down by the constant cycle of rebuilding after storms and the looming threat of rising sea levels that could one day engulf their communities.
High poverty levels further exacerbate the situation, driving residents to seek better opportunities elsewhere. However, there’s hope that this trend might reverse in the future. Louisiana is one of the most unique states in the U.S., with its rich culture, incredible food, and stunning natural beauty making it a truly special place to call home.
New York’s Outbound Rate Hits 61.5%
While New York is more than just its namesake city, New York City has been the primary driver of the state’s recent population trends. Once a magnet for people across the country, alongside California, the allure of the Big Apple has started to fade. Since the Covid pandemic, the city has experienced a significant outflow of residents, with an estimated 300 people leaving daily.
The reasons are clear: skyrocketing property prices have made it increasingly unaffordable for many, and the dense urban environment offers limited space and fewer green areas compared to rural regions. In 2023 alone, New York City reportedly lost around 78,000 residents, according to The New York Times, highlighting a shift in what people are looking for in a place to call home.
Hawaii’s Outbrain Rate Hits 54.4%
Hawaii has frequently made headlines for its ongoing exodus of residents. Remarkably, there are now more native Hawaiians living in California than on the islands themselves. The driving forces behind this trend are clear: soaring property prices and a shortage of well-paying jobs have made it increasingly difficult for locals to afford rent.
As a result, Hawaii is among the few states that have seen an overall population decline in recent years. While the islands may seem like a paradise for the rich and famous, experts warn that if these trends persist, Hawaii’s economy could face serious challenges in the near future.
Nevada’s Outbrain Rate Hits 51%
When people think of Nevada, Las Vegas often comes to mind, and for good reason—tourism is one of the state’s major industries. While that’s usually sustainable, it becomes a problem when other good job opportunities are scarce. In Nevada, employment options are limited, prompting many residents to seek opportunities elsewhere. This is especially true in rural areas, where job prospects are even more restricted.
Additionally, Nevada’s education system leaves much to be desired, driving many families to relocate to states like Arizona or California. To top it off, Nevada’s unemployment rate ranks among the worst in the nation, further fueling the exodus.
California’s Outbrain Rate Hits 54.4%
California was once the epitome of the American dream, and it still offers an incredible lifestyle with its diverse landscapes—beaches, forests, and deserts—catering to just about everyone. However, the Golden State has become synonymous with skyrocketing property prices and high taxes. Even modest homes can easily reach seven-figure price tags, depending on the location, driving many residents to seek more affordable living elsewhere.
In 2023, California saw a population loss of around 75,423 people, a slight improvement from the previous year but still significant. With the cost of living remaining so steep, it’s hard to envision a major influx of new residents in the near future.
Florida’s Outbrain Rate Hits 41.9%
Despite its challenges, Florida has experienced some of the most dramatic population shifts in recent years. In the wake of Covid, people from all over the country flocked to the Sunshine State—and who could blame them? Florida offers a slice of natural paradise, or at least it did before the rapid development.
However, this influx has also led to a noticeable outflow, as rising property prices and overcrowding push some residents to seek greener pastures. With housing costs soaring and coastal areas becoming increasingly hard to access—arguably one of Florida’s greatest attractions—it’s clear that the state’s rapid growth comes with its own set of problems.
Kansas’ Outbrain Rate Hits 58.7%
Many former residents are finding themselves saying, “We’re not in Kansas anymore,” after leaving the state. Kansas is facing significant outward migration, driven primarily by a lack of high-paying jobs and limited entertainment options. While the overall unemployment rate in Kansas is relatively low, many of the available jobs don’t offer competitive salaries, particularly for recent graduates who have invested heavily in their education.
The state’s population has been fluctuating over the past decade, and it’s uncertain whether Kansas will continue to lose residents or if it can manage a rebound. However, the frequent tornadoes certainly don’t make it an easy place to sell as a desirable destination.
Rhode Island’s Otbrain Rate Hits 49.2%
Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the Union, but its population has consistently punched above its weight for years. However, with rising rents and property prices, it’s no surprise that many residents are now moving away.
The state’s limited land area means there’s only so much room to accommodate growth, making a slowdown almost inevitable after years of steady population increase. Despite this recent dip, Rhode Island’s strong track record suggests that the state is unlikely to face prolonged high rates of outmigration—unless something drastic changes in the near future.
West Virginia’s Outbrain Rate Hits 51.8%
West Virginia and its neighboring states have taken a hard hit from the decline of the coal industry. Coal mining once provided some of the only decent jobs in many areas, despite the inherent dangers. With that industry on the decline, economic opportunities have become scarce, leading many residents to leave the state in search of better prospects elsewhere, even though West Virginia boasts stunning natural beauty.
However, there’s been a glimmer of hope recently. The state’s long-term unemployment rate, which hovered around 7.73%, dropped significantly to 4.30% in 2024. Although this figure is still above the national average, it marks a substantial improvement and offers a positive outlook for the future.
North Dakota’s Outbrain Rate Hits 51.3%
North Dakota faces a unique challenge compared to many other states on this list. While the state boasts abundant opportunities and one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, it struggles to attract and retain residents. The reason? There simply isn’t a lot to do in North Dakota.
The state’s vast, beautiful landscapes appeal to those who appreciate wide-open spaces, but not everyone is suited for such a remote environment. Many people, particularly those seeking a vibrant social life, prefer to move elsewhere, even if it means passing up the economic opportunities that North Dakota offers.
Nebraska’s Outbrain Rate Hits 52.6%
Despite its largely rural landscape, Nebraska boasts a relatively low unemployment rate. However, the challenge lies in the fact that many of these jobs offer relatively low pay, prompting a significant number of residents to seek better opportunities elsewhere. Young people, in particular, are leaving the state to put their degrees to use in regions with higher earning potential, which could pose long-term challenges for Nebraska.
While the state’s population is slowly rising, the pace of growth is minimal, and if this trend of outmigration continues, it may not be enough to sustain future development.
Arkansas’ Outbrain Rate Hits 49.7%
Arkansas faces many of the same challenges as its neighbor, Missouri. While the state is undeniably beautiful, finding well-paying jobs can be difficult. The winters are milder compared to states further north, but Arkansas sits at the southern edge of Tornado Alley, where severe weather frequently wreaks havoc, destroying homes and disrupting lives during tornado season.
Despite these challenges, Arkansas has seen slight population growth in recent years, though the increases are among the lowest in the nation. As a result, the state’s population is likely to remain relatively steady moving forward.
Texas’ Outbrain Rate Hits 44.4%
Texas has experienced an interesting trend that contrasts with the population shifts in California. While the state has attracted a significant number of new residents, there’s also been a surprising number of people moving out. The exact reasons for this are not entirely clear, but family reunification might be a factor—especially since many people from Louisiana made Texas their home after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast.
Rising property prices could also be playing a role. Despite these outflows, Texas has still seen substantial net population growth, though it seems that some people are only staying for a few years before relocating to another state.
South Carolina’s Outbrain Rate Hits 38.2%
Many Southern states are witnessing significant population movement, with a high percentage of people both moving in and out. South Carolina is a prime example, having experienced a surge of new residents in recent years, particularly since Covid. However, a substantial number of people are also leaving.
High poverty rates persist in rural areas, while well-paying jobs are concentrated in urban centers, a challenge that mirrors a broader national trend. Despite the recent influx, South Carolina’s population growth has been less dramatic overall, as earlier population dips have tempered the state’s average population change.
Alabama’s Outbrain Rate Hits 44.5%
Alabama has experienced a net population gain in recent years, but many residents are still leaving, particularly from rural areas. These regions have struggled with high poverty rates due to a lack of well-paying jobs and limited development. Agriculture remains a key industry, yet small farmers are facing challenges nationwide, further exacerbating the issue.
On the flip side, Alabama’s cities and coastal areas have seen population increases, attracting newcomers drawn by the state’s favorable weather and natural beauty.
Mississippi’s Outbrain Rate Hits 49.4%
Since the end of Covid, Mississippi has recorded some of the lowest population numbers among Southern states, and the reasons are clear. While the state boasts stunning natural beauty, delicious food, and rich culture, it also suffers from some of the highest unemployment rates in the country.
The only areas in Mississippi that are seeing notable population growth are along the Gulf Coast. The growth that occurred in the early to mid-2010s has slowed significantly, and it’s uncertain whether this trend will reverse anytime soon, though it seems unlikely.
Kentucky’s Outbrain Rate Hits 53.5%
Kentucky finds itself in a tricky situation. Like many of its Appalachian neighbors, the state has been hit hard by the decline of coal mining jobs, yet it has opted to keep its minimum wage low. The one bright spot is that Kentucky has committed to introducing a wave of new tech and environmental jobs, and so far, it has delivered on that promise.
However, it remains uncertain whether these new opportunities will be enough to transform the state’s economy or attract more residents without raising the minimum wage or implementing stronger worker support initiatives.
Iowa’s Outbrain Rate Hits 55.5%
Iowa, like many other states, has experienced a significant rise in the cost of living in recent years, pushing some residents to seek more affordable options elsewhere. Those leaving often cite the limited entertainment and activities in the state as a factor in their decision. On the positive side, Iowa’s economy is thriving, but this success has contributed to the increase in property prices and living costs.
While overall population growth has been slow, it doesn’t appear that Iowa’s population will decline sharply anytime soon, as long as taxes remain relatively stable.
Alaska’s Outbrain Rate Hits 56%
It’s no surprise that Alaska, while one of the most pristine and beautiful places in the world, is also one of the toughest to live in. The winters are brutal, and job opportunities are limited. Many who work in Alaska’s tourism industry are seasonal workers who come for a few months, earn some money, and then return home.
Additionally, a significant number of locals are leaving the state in search of better job prospects, more social opportunities, or simply a warmer climate. As a result, Alaska is currently experiencing some of the highest rates of outward migration in the country.
Vermont’s Outbrain Rate Hits 34.5%
Vermont has fared better than many of its neighbors when it comes to retaining residents, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its challenges. The state faces high rents and home prices, and like many other regions, it lacks enough well-paying jobs to keep everyone satisfied. As a result, some residents are choosing to leave in search of better opportunities.
However, Vermont’s situation isn’t dire—there’s no imminent risk of a population collapse. That said, a noticeable number of retirees are moving away in search of warmer climates, which could impact the state’s demographics over time.
