Trenton, NJ — More New Jersey residents are leaving than arriving for the eighth straight year, with about 62% of moves in 2025 classified as outbound, according to the United Van Lines National Movers Study. The continued population shift reflects mounting pressure from the nation’s highest property taxes and rising cost of living, with retirees and older households driving much of the exodus.
The data places New Jersey once again at the top of the country for outbound migration, a trend that has held steady for nearly a decade. While some residents continue to move into the state, they account for just under 38% of total moves, highlighting a persistent imbalance.
Costs and retirement reshape population flow
High property taxes remain a central factor. New Jersey’s effective property tax rate sits around 2.47%, the highest in the United States, creating a sustained financial burden for homeowners—especially those on fixed incomes.
Retirement plays an equally significant role. Roughly 22% to 25% of outbound moves are tied to residents leaving the workforce and seeking more affordable states. Many are relocating to places like Florida, Pennsylvania, and Texas, where housing costs and taxes are typically lower.
Younger residents are also part of the movement, though in a different pattern. New Jersey continues to function as what analysts describe as a “launch state,” with young professionals entering early in their careers but often leaving for more affordable regions or different job markets.
Where residents are going
Florida remains the top destination for former New Jersey residents, particularly retirees seeking lower taxes and warmer climates. Pennsylvania and Texas also rank among the most common relocation targets, offering a combination of lower housing costs and growing job opportunities.
California appears on the destination list as well, though for different reasons—often tied to specific industries or career moves rather than affordability.
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Key Points
• New Jersey ranks #1 in outbound migration for the 8th consecutive year
• About 62% of moves are departures, led by retirees and older residents
• High property taxes and cost of living remain the primary drivers
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Long-term pressure on affordability
The sustained outflow underscores broader affordability challenges within the state. Housing costs, taxes, and general living expenses continue to outpace national averages, making it difficult for both retirees and middle-income households to remain long-term.
Business and policy analysts note that while New Jersey maintains strong economic assets—including proximity to major metropolitan areas and a diverse job base—these advantages are increasingly offset by cost pressures.
At the same time, inbound migration has not stopped entirely. About 37.7% of moves tracked in the study were into New Jersey, suggesting the state still attracts workers, particularly younger individuals starting careers or relocating for specific industries.
What comes next
The ongoing migration trend raises questions about the state’s long-term demographic and economic balance, particularly as older residents leave and younger populations cycle in and out. Population shifts can affect everything from housing markets to tax revenue and workforce stability.
New Jersey officials have not announced major policy changes tied directly to the latest migration rankings, and the underlying factors—tax structure, housing costs, and retirement trends—remain largely unchanged heading into 2026.
As it stands, New Jersey continues to lead the nation in outbound migration, with no clear reversal in sight.
