Outbound migration is reshaping the demographics of states across the US. Recent years have seen a significant number of people leaving high-density states like New Jersey and New York, causing concern among policymakers, businesses, and relocation experts. Understanding why this is happening is crucial for anyone involved in long distance moving, international moving, or providing premium “white glove moving” services. This blog will guide you through the main findings, economic factors, demographic trends, and specific state analyses using the latest data.
Whether you’re in the relocation business or studying migration patterns, you’ll gain useful insights and actionable information to better serve your clients or deepen your research.
Understanding outbound migration and current trends
What is outbound migration?
Outbound migration refers to the movement of individuals or families who leave one state to live in another, usually crossing state lines. This pattern is important because it impacts local economies, real estate markets, workforce availability, and the overall vibrancy of communities.
Recent trends in US migration
The most recent United Van Lines National Movers Study (2024) has revealed striking trends. For the seventh consecutive year, New Jersey holds the distinction of being the state with the highest outbound migration, followed by Illinois and New York. This indicates ongoing challenges in retaining residents. By contrast, states like West Virginia, Delaware, and South Carolina have become popular move-in destinations.
Top outbound states (2024)
- New Jersey
- Illinois
- New York
- California
- Massachusetts
Understanding these patterns can help relocation companies like Empire Movers and Storage NYC anticipate client needs for long distance moving, international relocations, and white glove moving services.
Key findings from recent studies
United Van Lines 2024 National Movers study
The United Van Lines report provides a comprehensive overview of why and where Americans are moving. Here are the main takeaways:
- New Jersey has led in outbound movement for the past 7 years, with a 67% outbound migration rate in 2024.
- New York follows closely, ranking third, with a 59% outbound rate.
- The primary reasons for moving out are retirement (22% in NJ; 21% in NY) and the desire to be closer to family (20% in NJ; 26% in NY).
- Economic stressors, such as housing costs and inflation, are significant motivators for seeking new locations.
Motivations behind moving
The study shows retirement and family remain top factors, but economic concerns like housing affordability and cost of living are becoming increasingly important. Movers seek regions that offer both financial relief and high quality of life.
Economic factors driving migration
Housing costs and living expenses
A leading factor fueling outbound migration is the high cost of housing. Metro areas in New Jersey and New York are among the most expensive in the country. Michael A. Stoll, a UCLA economist, notes that “Americans are moving to lower density, more affordable regions between expensive, economic-driving states.”
Inflation, rising taxes, and soaring home prices make it difficult for many to stay, especially middle-income families and retirees living on fixed incomes.
The search for affordability
Individuals are increasingly choosing to move to regions where housing is more accessible, living expenses are lower, and overall quality of life is higher. This trend is especially pronounced among those planning for retirement or needing space for growing families.
For moving companies, this means more demand for long distance and even international moving services as clients look to stretch their housing budgets, sometimes even beyond the US.
Demographic trends in outbound migration
Age groups and motives
Different demographic groups migrate for diverse reasons:
- Retirees: Drawn to states with better tax benefits, slower pace, and more affordable living costs.
- Families: Seek environments with lower crime rates, better schools, or proximity to extended family.
- Young professionals: Often leave high-cost areas searching for job opportunities, lower rents, or remote work-friendly communities.
The 2024 study shows retirements are a leading reason for both New Jersey and New York’s high outbound rates, but younger demographics are increasingly factoring in cost of living and remote work flexibility when deciding to relocate.
The rise of remote work
Remote work trends, amplified by recent global events, enable professionals to live farther from their workplaces. This flexibility empowers more people to leave dense metropolitan areas in favor of suburban or even rural settings.
State-specific analysis
New Jersey
With 67% outbound migration in 2024, New Jersey tops the list for the seventh year in a row. The two biggest motivators are:
- Retirement (22%) – Many residents move to states with sunshine, lower taxes, and more affordable homes.
- Family (20%) – Being closer to adult children or extended family, especially after the pandemic, drives many relocations.
Other contributing factors include property taxes, congestion, and employment opportunities elsewhere. High outbound rates mean local businesses may need to attract new customers or re-evaluate operations as the population shifts.
New York
New York’s 59% outbound migration rate is driven primarily by family (26%) and retirement (21%). However, economic issues (cost, taxes) also play a major role. The allure of smaller cities and outdoor lifestyles is gaining appeal, with many former New Yorkers relocating to states in the Southeast or Mountain West.
Both New Jersey and New York’s high outbound migration rates are opportunities for trusted movers like Empire Movers and Storage NYC, which specializes in long distance moving, international moving, and white glove moving services that make transitions seamless and stress-free.
Comparing outbound and inbound States
Top inbound States and their appeal
The United Van Lines study lists these as the top states for inbound migration in 2024:
- West Virginia
- Delaware
- South Carolina
- District of Columbia
- North Carolina
These states are attractive for a mix of reasons:
- Affordability: Lower housing costs and living expenses.
- Lifestyle improvements: Friendly communities, more space, and slower pace of life.
- Employment opportunities: Emerging job markets, business-friendly regulations.
- Climate and environment: Warmer winters, scenic outdoors, and lower population density.
Characteristics that set them apart
Inbound states typically offer:
- Affordable real estate and taxes
- Expanding job markets
- High quality of life for families and seniors
- Less urban congestion
Outbound states struggle with:
- High property prices and taxes
- Aging infrastructure
- Stagnant or declining job markets (in some areas)
- Dense populations and increased living expenses
For relocation companies, understanding these nuances helps tailor moving support for long distance and white glove services.
Looking ahead: What outbound migration means for You?
Outbound migration is a complex trend shaped by economic realities, demographic shifts, and personal motivations. High housing costs, taxes, and shifting family priorities play a significant role in why states like New Jersey and New York lead the nation in outbound moves. Meanwhile, states with lower costs, growing communities, and better weather are poised to attract new residents.
Key takeaways for relocation services and demographers
- Economic factors (housing, cost of living, taxes) are major drivers of outbound migration.
- Retirement and family are leading personal motivators for interstate moves.
- States like New Jersey and New York consistently see high outbound rates, while West Virginia, Delaware, and South Carolina attract more newcomers.
- Remote work is likely to continue encouraging moves away from high-cost urban centers.
For demographers, these trends signal ongoing shifts in population centers and resource needs. For relocation services like Empire Movers and Storage NYC, understanding these patterns ensures readiness to support clients’ needs—from long distance moves to international relocations and white glove moving experiences tailored to high-value clients.
If your clients are preparing to relocate or if you’re looking to analyze migration trends for business strategy, staying informed and adaptable is key. For more data-driven resources and expert moving support, trust Empire Movers and Storage NYC. We combine years of experience with comprehensive services to make your next move efficient, safe, and stress-free.