People Are Fleeing These States And Where They Are Flocking To

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Two people carrying boxes and a plant, standing in a room with additional cardboard boxes and unpacked items. — Image Credit: DepositPhotos

As someone who’s always been fascinated by population trends, I’ve noticed some big changes in where Americans are choosing to live. These shifts tell us a lot about what people value in their homes and communities. They also give us clues about the economic and social factors shaping our country.

The U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 report reveals some eye-opening facts about our nation’s population. Overall, the United States gained over 1.6 million new residents in 2023, which marks a 0.5% increase.

What’s particularly interesting is that the South accounted for a whopping 87% of this growth. Meanwhile, the Northeast and Midwest regions continue to see people packing up and moving out.

These trends paint a picture of a changing America. People are voting with their feet, choosing places that offer better job opportunities, lower living costs, or a different lifestyle. It’s not just about where people are going, but also about why they’re leaving certain areas.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 10 states losing residents the fastest and the 10 states gaining the most new residents. We’ll examine the factors driving these changes and what they might mean for the future of these states and our country as a whole.

What do you think about these moving trends? Are you surprised by any of the states on these lists? Do you notice any trends?

10 States Losing Residents Fast

A woman with curly hair in a white tank top and jeans carries stacked boxes in a cluttered room with various cardboard boxes and bags around. — Image Credit: Pexels

Before we get into the states losing residents, it’s worth noting that population shifts often correlate with economic factors. In fact, we recently published an article titled “The Income You Need to Live Comfortably in Each State.”

This piece provides valuable insights into the cost of living across different states, which can help explain some of the migration patterns we’re seeing.

Now, let’s look at the Top 10 States that are experiencing population decline.

1. California

The golden gate bridge with San Francisco in the backdrop on a clear day, epitomizing California's unique traits.

California, once the dream destination for many, is now seeing people leave in large numbers. In 2023, the Golden State lost about 338,371 residents. The main reason? It’s just too expensive to live there, especially when it comes to housing.

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Many Californians are looking for more affordable places to call home, and this trend has been going on for three years straight now. The state’s housing affordability crisis is pushing people to seek cheaper options elsewhere, leading to a significant outflow of residents.

2. New York

New York is another state watching its population shrink, with 216,778 people leaving in 2023. The Big Apple and the rest of the state are grappling with sky-high living expenses and a challenging economic environment.

The COVID-19 pandemic made things worse, prompting many residents to seek out states with lower costs of living and more favorable tax situations. In fact, New York City alone lost almost 6% of its population, that’s 550,000 residents, over the past few years.

3. Illinois

A city skyline at sunset, with tall buildings overlooking a large body of water and a park. The sun is setting near the horizon, casting an orange and blue glow across the sky. One can't help but wonder about the salary needed to live comfortably in US cities with such breathtaking views.

Illinois has been losing residents for 10 years in a row now, and 2023 was no exception with 83,839 people moving out. The main reasons people are leaving? They’re looking for better job opportunities and more affordable housing options.

This ongoing population decline is causing concern for the state’s future, as it affects everything from tax revenue to public services. Many families are choosing to start fresh in states with stronger economies and lower living costs.

4. New Jersey

A sailboat with an American flag sails on a body of water with a cityscape of tall buildings and greenery in the background, showcasing one of the most comfortable cities to live in the U.S.

The Garden State said goodbye to 44,666 residents in 2023, continuing a long-standing trend of population decline. New Jersey’s high living costs and taxes are major factors pushing people to look for more affordable alternatives in other states.

Many residents are finding that they can get more bang for their buck elsewhere, especially when it comes to housing. This ongoing exodus is raising questions about the state’s long-term economic health and competitiveness.

5. Massachusetts

A white lighthouse stands on a rocky shore with houses in the background under a sunny sky with clouds. Waves crash against the rocks in the foreground, reminiscent of the picturesque coastlines found in some of the most comfortable cities to live in US.

Massachusetts experienced a significant population drop in 2023, losing 39,149 residents. This marks the highest level of out-migration the state has seen in 30 years. The reasons behind this exodus are complex, but high living costs and career opportunities elsewhere play a big role.

This trend is causing worry about the future of the state’s tax base and public services, especially in urban areas that are seeing the most significant population declines.

6. Maryland

Aerial view of a city skyline with a waterfront featuring several boats docked, surrounded by high-rise buildings under a partly cloudy sky, showing one of the most comfortable places to live in the US.

Maryland saw 30,905 residents move out in 2023. Economic factors and a declining urban population, especially in the Baltimore area, are major contributors to this trend. Many people are leaving in search of better job prospects and more affordable living situations.

The state is now grappling with how to reverse this trend and make Maryland a more attractive place to live and work for both current residents and potential newcomers.

7. Louisiana

A vibrant, colorful street in a city at dusk, lined with buildings featuring balconies and illuminated signs. The street appears empty with scattered trash bins and bright lights glowing, reminiscent of the most comfortable cities to live in US, where urban charm meets serene moments.

Louisiana’s population decreased 29,692 in 2023, as people sought opportunities in nearby states. The Bayou State has been facing ongoing economic difficulties, and the impact of natural disasters like hurricanes and flooding has taken its toll.

These events have historically displaced residents and hurt the state’s economy. Many Louisianans are choosing to move to neighboring states with more stable economies and job markets, leading to this significant population loss.

8. Pennsylvania

A narrow street in one of the most comfortable cities to live in the US, lined with historic stone and brick buildings, features storefronts and a "Times House Bed & Breakfast" sign, with parked cars and trees in the background.

Pennsylvania experienced a population decrease of 24,825 residents in 2023. The state has been losing residents at an increasing rate, with major cities like Philadelphia facing significant declines.

Many families are seeking better employment opportunities in nearby states, while others are heading for warmer weather and a lower cost of living. This trend is causing concern among state officials about the long-term economic impacts of this population loss.

9. Washington

Aerial view of the Washington Monument in Baltimore at dusk, surrounded by illuminated buildings and streets.

Even tech-savvy Washington state recorded a population loss of 15,276 residents in 2023. While the state has offset some losses with international migration, the domestic outflow remains a concern for policymakers.

The Evergreen State’s housing crisis and the ability for many to work remotely have contributed to this trend. Many residents are finding they can enjoy a lower cost of living elsewhere while keeping their high-paying tech jobs, leading to this unexpected population decrease.

10. Michigan

Skyline of a city with tall buildings beside a large body of water, rocks in the foreground, and a cloudy sky overhead. It's one of the most comfortable cities to live in the US, where stunning views meet urban sophistication.

Michigan saw 15,051 residents move out in 2023. This decline is particularly notable after a period of gaining residents in previous years.

A recent report found that families leaving Michigan cited retirement, family reasons, and employment opportunities as their main motivations for relocating.

The state is now working on strategies to retain its population and attract new residents to reverse this trend and support long-term economic growth.

10 States Gaining Residents

Now that we’ve seen which states are losing residents, let’s turn our attention to the states that are growing fast.

These states are attracting new residents for a variety of reasons, such as job opportunities, affordable living, and a high quality of life. It’s interesting to see how different factors can make a state more appealing to newcomers.

Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 states that are gaining the most new residents and what’s driving their population growth.

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1. Texas

A city skyline with high-rise buildings is seen from a boardwalk by a body of water, with sunrays streaming through scattered clouds.

Texas led the nation in population growth, gaining 473,453 new residents in 2023. This impressive increase accounts for nearly 30% of the entire country’s population growth.

The Lone Star State’s appeal lies in its robust economy, plentiful job opportunities, and lack of state income tax. Texas’s diverse economy and business-friendly environment continue to attract individuals and families looking for new opportunities.

Cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston are booming with new residents and businesses, making Texas a top destination for those seeking a fresh start.

2. Florida

A scenic view of a coastal town with buildings on a hillside, a curving shoreline, and numerous sailboats in the blue sea on a clear, sunny day—a true glimpse of one of the most comfortable places to live in the US.

Florida welcomed 358,735 new residents in 2023, continuing a decade-long trend of strong population growth. The Sunshine State has been consistently adding between 300,000 to 380,000 residents each year for the past decade.

People are drawn to Florida for its warm climate, retirement-friendly policies, and absence of state income tax. The state has become a popular destination for retirees and those seeking a more affordable lifestyle compared to other coastal states.

Florida’s growth is reshaping its communities and economy, with new developments springing up to accommodate the influx of residents.

3. North Carolina

Large Gothic-style mansion with a symmetrical facade, surrounded by manicured lawns and trees. A circular fountain is in the foreground, and people are walking near the building. With its picturesque surroundings, it could be set in one of the most comfortable cities to live in the US. Cloudy sky above.

North Carolina’s population grew 139,526 in 2023, thanks to its booming job market, relatively low cost of living, and high quality of life. The state’s growing tech industry and reputable educational institutions have attracted many newcomers, especially to areas like the Research Triangle.

North Carolina’s mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, with mountains and beaches within easy reach, makes it appealing to a wide range of people. The state’s consistent growth is leading to new developments and economic opportunities across its regions.

4. Georgia

Aerial view of a city skyline featuring a mix of modern and historic buildings, under a partly cloudy sky, in one of the most comfortable cities to live in the US.

Georgia’s population increased 116,077 in 2023, pushing the state’s total population past 11 million mark. Georgia has been in the spotlight for drawing in a major number of movers over the last few years.

This growth is fueled by economic opportunities, a diverse job market, and cultural attractions, particularly in the Atlanta metropolitan area. The state’s film industry, tech sector, and logistics hubs are creating jobs and attracting workers from all fields.

Georgia’s blend of Southern charm and modern opportunities is proving irresistible to many new residents.

5. South Carolina

View of a cityscape with a marina, buildings, and a bridge leading toward a sprawling urban area under a blue sky, featuring one of the most comfortable places to live in the US, highlighted by a large cable-stayed bridge in the background.

South Carolina saw a growth of 90,600 residents in 2023, making it one of the fastest-growing states with a rate of 1.7%. Expe r ts point to affordable housing and a thriving economy as the main drivers of this rapid growth.

The state’s appealing climate, low cost of living, and expanding job market have made it an attractive destination for people of all ages.

South Carolina’s coastal areas and vibrant cities like Charleston and Greenville are particularly popular among newcomers, offering a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities.

6. Tennessee

Skyline of a city with high-rise buildings, a prominent pointed skyscraper, and a truss bridge crossing a river under a clear blue sky—truly one of the most comfortable cities to live in the US.

Tennessee added 77,513 residents in 2023, benefiting from its low cost of living, lack of state income tax, and vibrant cultural scene. The state’s economic growth, sense of community, and quality of life continue to draw new residents, according to recent studies.

Cities like Nashville and Chattanooga are experiencing booms in both population and development. Tennessee’s music scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, and friendly atmosphere are additional factors attracting people to the Volunteer State.

7. Arizona

A small town with red brick buildings, houses on hills, and mountainous terrain under a partly cloudy sky, reminiscent of some of the most comfortable cities to live in the US.

Arizona’s population increased 65,660 in 2023 as the state continues to attract new residents. Many people are drawn to Arizona for its warm climate, outdoor lifestyle, and relatively affordable housing compared to neighboring California.

The state’s growing tech industry and retirement communities are major factors in its population growth. Arizona’s unique desert landscape and abundance of sunshine appeal to those seeking an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.

8. Idaho

A cityscape view of Boise, Idaho—one of the most comfortable cities to live in the US—showing a busy road with vehicles, surrounding buildings, autumnal trees, and mountains in the background.

Idaho experienced a growth of 25,730 residents in 2023, with projections suggesting the state’s population may top 2 mil l ion in 2024.

Idaho is attracting newcomers with its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and lower cost of living compared to many other Western states. The state’s growing tech industry, particularly in the Boise area, is creating new job opportunities.

Idaho’s mix of urban amenities and easy access to wilderness areas is proving attractive to many new residents.

9. Virginia

Virginia added 36,599 residents in 2023, with New Kent County leading the state in growth rate. The Commonwealth’s diverse economy, strong educational institutions, and proximity to Washington, D.C. make it an appealing destination for professionals.

Virginia’s mix of historical sites, beautiful landscapes, and modern job opportunities attracts a wide range of new residents. The state’s technology corridor in Northern Virginia continues to be a major draw for skilled workers and their families.

10. Utah

A city skyline with tall buildings sits against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains under a partly cloudy sky, representing one of the most comfortable places to live in the US.

Utah’s population grew 36,498 in 2023, with about 73% of Utah’s cities, towns and metro townships gaining residents. The state’s growth is driven by a strong economy, family-friendly environment, and high quality of life, particularly in the Salt Lake City metropolitan area.

Utah’s tech industry, nicknamed “Silicon Slopes,” is creating numerous job opportunities. The state’s outdoor recreation opportunities, with world-class skiing and national parks, are additional factors attracting new residents to the Beehive State.

A Shifting Nation: What’s Next?

Two people are high-fiving while moving boxes in a well-lit room with yellow curtains. — Image Credit: Pexels

As we wrap up our exploration of America’s population shifts, it’s clear that our country is in a state of flux. These movements are more than just statistics, they’re reshaping communities, economies, and potentially, the future of our nation.

States gaining residents face both opportunities and challenges. They must manage quick growth while preserving the qualities that attracted newcomers in the first place.

On the flip side, states losing population need innovative strategies to reverse the trend and revitalize their communities.

As we move forward, it’s crucial to understand and adapt to these changes. They’ll play a key role in shaping our country’s future.

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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.