New York City is the world’s cultural, financial, and art capital, but it is not without its flaws. Over 500,000 residents left the Big Apple in 2022, and this trend continued throughout 2023. It is common for people to leave major cities for a number of reasons, but each reason is highlighted in NYC. Here are some of the best-known reasons New Yorkers are moving to other cities and states.
Where are New Yorkers going?
Most New Yorkers left for neighboring New Jersey and Connecticut, as well as Florida, California, and Pennsylvania. Only less than 500 moved to Wyoming, Montana, Iowa, Mississippi, and South Dakota during 2022. Most New Yorkers who left the city still love its energy, but it became too much for many, which is the main reason they left, but not the only one.
Homeownership in NYC
Homeownership is at 30%, well below the national average of 66. Housing is 80% higher than the national average, which makes sense, considering NYC is a global center of finance, commerce, culture, tech, entertainment, media, academics, science, the arts, and fashion. It drives people in, and due to high demands, for most, owning a home in the city is nothing but a dream.
NYC is exhausting
The city’s high-energy lifestyle can be thrilling, but with time, it becomes exhausting. Most people who left the city cited life quality that drove them away. A 2022 study by research firm William Russell confirmed that NYC is the most stressful city in the States.
Living costs are high
NYC is among the most expensive cities in the world. Only Zurich, Singapore, and Geneva are pricer than the Big Apple. The biggest issue is the rent, followed by utilities, transportation, healthcare, and childcare. According to Unbiased, the cost of living in New York City is 37% higher than the state average. It is a staggering 78% higher than the US average.
Pollution is a big issue
NYC is among the top 10 most polluted cities in the US. The number of vehicles, power plants, and heating systems are the main reasons for the city’s declining air quality. Although pollution is a growing problem in all major cities, due to the sheer number of people living in NYC and millions visiting, it is one of the biggest environmental threats to New Yorkers.
Remote working
Many New Yorkers replaced their fancy offices and the city’s noise for smaller, more affordable towns nationwide. Work flexibility allows people to live closer to their families, be in touch with nature, and improve their overall quality of living while only visiting NYC when necessary.
NYC loneliness
Many people can feel lonely despite being surrounded by millions. The fast-paced lifestyle in a city that never sleeps was abruptly interrupted when Covid came and took over. The iconic city’s residents were already struggling with daily stresses. Still, for many, the pandemic signaled it was time to find a smaller community that is more welcoming and where people know their neighbor’s names.
Reconnecting with family
Many New Yorkers left to be closer to their families while finding more affordable options. The pandemic made people rethink their lifestyles, and this is not a New York issue but merely one of the main reasons some New Yorkers left.
Better school options
To get to the best NYC schools, one has to live in some of the most expensive neighborhoods in the state. Transportation is another major issue, so many parents leave the city to give their children a better education and provide a particular lifestyle. It does not help parents that New York has many residents packed in relatively small spaces compared to London or other major cities.
Starting a business
New York is a city of opportunities, but seemingly never-ending work days and competition can be challenging if you’re only starting a business. Some leave the city to start their business, and they choose states that are heaven for entrepreneurs, like Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, or North Carolina.
Retirees are looking for a more relaxed lifestyle
Many New York retirees leave the city’s busy life for better health care, lower living costs, weather, and a more relaxed lifestyle. They choose their preferred locations in Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Maine or Pennsylvania.
High-income tax rates
New York has the highest general tax burden, according to the WalletHub report. New Yorkers pay several taxes, including 4.36% in taxes for the property, the income tax rate of 4.72%, and the sales tax rate of 3.39%. That makes the overall tax burden over 12%.
Other reasons for leaving NYC
Clever Real Estate Moving Trends also included that some people were leaving to upsize, while others cited significant life changes or job relocation as reasons to move. A smaller number said they were leaving due to political reasons. All these issues are not NYC-specific, but the quality of life, housing, and living expenses are the driving force for those leaving the city with so much to offer, but at a cost.
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Kate Smith, a self-proclaimed word nerd who relishes the power of language to inform, entertain, and inspire. Kate's passion for sharing knowledge and sparking meaningful conversations fuels her every word.