Why Are People Leaving New York State? Here Are 9 Reasons
Some see New York State as a bustling hub of culture, business, and opportunity mixed with apple orchards and a slower pace of life in Upstate. As for other residents? It’s a state they’re tired of calling home.
These are some of the key reasons New Yorkers—those from the city and Upstate—are saying goodbye to the Empire State.
High Cost of Living
Living in New York is expensive—really expensive. Many locals find it hard to afford the high prices of housing, food, transportation, and other essentials.
For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is around $4,200 a month, and even in countryside areas of Upstate NY, housing prices remain steep. According to Zillow, the average cost of a home in metro areas of Upstate New York is over $220,000. For families and individuals trying to stretch their budgets, this can make everyday life feel like an uphill battle.
High taxes only add to the financial burden. In 2024, ABC News reported on a WalletHub study saying that residents of New York State experience the worst tax burden in the nation. New York’s tax burden sits at 12.02%. In contrast, Alaska has the lowest tax burden, at 4.93%.
Harsh Winters
If you’ve ever spent a winter in New York, you know how brutal it can be. Snowstorms, freezing temperatures, and icy roads are all part of the package. For some, the long months of harsh weather become exhausting. Shoveling snow, scraping ice off your car, and dealing with gray skies can take a toll on mental and physical health.
It’s no surprise, then, that many New Yorkers not only dream of living somewhere warmer but take the leap to do so. In fact, a 2024 survey revealed that the desire to live in a climate with better weather was one of the top reasons New York staters have their eyes set on moving across state borders. Just how many people reported they plan on leaving New York at the time the survey was taken? About 37%, which is around seven million NY residents.
For those tired of bundling up and braving the cold, the idea of year-round warmth is simply too tempting to pass up.
Seeking Job Opportunities
While New York City is a major job center with opportunities in finance, tech, and entertainment, not all parts of the state offer the same prospects. Upstate New York, for instance, has struggled with job losses in industries like manufacturing over the years. For residents in these areas, finding stable, high-paying employment can be a challenge.
Meanwhile, states like Texas and Florida have seen significant job growth in recent years. Companies are relocating to these states for their business-friendly environments and lower taxes, bringing new jobs with them.
For New Yorkers seeking better employment opportunities or career growth, moving to one of these states can be an appealing—and no-brainer—choice.
Desire for More Space
Lets set Upstate New York aside for a moment; in many cases, space isn’t a problem. In contrast, New York City is notorious for its cramped living spaces. Apartments are small, and outdoor space is often a luxury.
While some NYC residents love the hustle and bustle of city life, others, especially families, crave more room to spread out. Having a backyard, a larger home, or even just an extra bedroom becomes a priority.
In many other states, housing is more affordable, and it’s possible to get much more space for your money. For example, a budget under $500,000 might get you a modest apartment in New York City but could buy a comfortable multi-bedroom suburban home in states like Georgia or Tennessee. For residents looking to start a family or upgrade their living situation, the promise of more space at a lower cost is a powerful motivator to move out of New York.
Political Climate
Some New York residents feel that the political environment in New York doesn’t align with their personal beliefs or priorities. The state is known for its progressive policies, which appeal to many but may frustrate others. Issues like high taxes, business regulations, and gun laws often come up as points of contention.
On the other hand, states like Florida, Texas, and Tennessee offer different political climates that some find more appealing. These states tend to have lower taxes, fewer regulations, and policies that align with conservative values.
For individuals and families who feel out of sync with New York’s political landscape, relocating to a state that better matches their beliefs can be an attractive option.
Quality of Life and Work-Life Balance
The fast-paced lifestyle of New York City isn’t for everyone. Long work hours, crowded commutes, and the constant hustle can leave people feeling burnt out. For those looking for a slower, more relaxed pace of life, New York’s intensity can become overwhelming.
Of course, not all of New York is go, go, go. Upstate New York is filled with farms. But even then, farmers may grow tired of holding their breath over whether an early frost will demolish their apple harvest or whether too much or too little rain will damage their corn.
In contrast, other states offer a more laid-back lifestyle. Whether it’s the ability to work remotely in a quiet rural area or simply enjoying a less hectic environment, many people leave New York in search of a better work-life balance.
Crime Rate Struggle
New York City residents undoubtedly heard about overall crime dropping by 3% in 2024 compared to 2023, including several categories of major crimes. But there was an uptick in certain types of violent crime.
Upstate New York is also far from immune from crime. Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse are the most dangerous cities in Upstate NY, causing some residents to want to move to safer territory.
Statistics aside, the perception of rising crime based on personal experience or what one hears through friends and family can influence one’s decision to leave New York State.
Remote Work Opportunities
The rise of remote work has made it easier than ever for people to live wherever they want. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many workers discovered that they could do their jobs just as effectively—if not more effectively—from home. For New Yorkers, this meant they no longer needed to live near their workplace to earn a living.
With the flexibility of remote work, some New Yorkers decided to leave the high costs and, in the case of NYC, crowded conditions of New York behind. They opted for states with lower living expenses, more space, and a better quality of life.
This trend has been particularly noticeable among younger professionals and families who value the freedom to choose where they live. As long as remote work remains an option, it’s unlikely that such workers are itching to return to the Empire State.
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