Where Are People Moving To? Top States Attracting New Yorkers

As rising costs and economic pressures reshape migration patterns, more New Yorkers are packing up and heading to states offering affordability and quality of life. According to the 48th Annual National Movers Study by United Van Lines, released on January 1st, New York remains among the top outbound states, with 60% of moves categorized as outbound. But where are these New Yorkers going?

Where Are New Yorkers Moving? Study Reveals Top Destinations in 2024

Many New Yorkers are trading the hustle and bustle of urban life for more affordable regions in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. States like Delaware and Florida are top destinations, with Delaware ranking second nationally for inbound moves. Of those moving to Delaware, 12% came from New York, primarily citing proximity to family and retirement opportunities as key motivations. Florida also remains a favorite with nearly one in five New Yorkers seeking a sunnier, more cost-effective lifestyle.

Elizeu Dias/Unsplash

Other Sunbelt states such as North Carolina, South Carolina, and Alabama continue to attract movers with their lower housing costs, milder climates, and vibrant communities. Wilmington, North Carolina, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, are standout metro areas for inbound migration.

Why Are People Leaving New York?

In New York, skyrocketing housing costs and rising living expenses have pushed many residents to look elsewhere however, the most common reasons for leaving the state are the desire to be closer to family, retirement, and lifestyle/relocation for a job. The majority of the people leaving New York are over the age of 55. Family considerations now outpace economic opportunities as the primary reason for interstate moves, reflecting a post-pandemic shift in priorities.

New York’s Place in National Trends

New York is part of the broader outbound trend that other high-cost states like California and Illinois are experiencing. Meanwhile, states with smaller populations, like West Virginia and Arkansas, are experiencing a huge surge in inbound migration, driven by affordability and accessibility to outdoor recreation. There are even new additions to the top inbound states. Delaware, Oregon and Arizona all make the top 10 list for the first time, while South Carolina, Alabama and Rhode Island are frequently on the list.

The Top 2024 Inbound States:

West Virginia
Delaware
South Carolina
District of Columbia
North Carolina
Alabama
Rhode Island
Oregon
Arkansas
Arizona

New York has been on the top ten outbound list for the last 5 years, as has California, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Illinois. The top outbound states for 2024 were:

New Jersey
Illinois
New York
California
Massachusetts
North Dakota
Wyoming
Mississippi
Nebraska

16 Of New York State's Most Wanted Criminals- January 2025

Below are individuals wanted by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision's (DOCCS) Office of Special Investigations who have been designated as its Most Wanted Fugitives. They should be considered armed and dangerous. This list is current as of 1/01/2025:

NEVER attempt to apprehend a fugitive yourself. If you have information on the location of any of these fugitives, you can contact OSI 24 hours a day / 7 days a week to report it. All leads and tips are treated as confidential information.

If an immediate response is necessary, such as you see the wanted person at a location, please call “911” and report it to the police.

Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler

5 Dangerous Phone Numbers You Should Block NOW

According to Been Verified, these numbers are most often used for identity stealing, bank account draining phone scams.

Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart

The Most Deadly and Dangerous Places in New York

We all know New York has no shortage of stunning natural landscapes and thrilling adventures, but some of those jaw-dropping spots come with a serious warning label. Whether you're a hiker, a road-tripper, or someone looking for a day of exploration, it’s important to stay aware of where things can get dangerous. From waterfalls with unseen ledges to treacherous hiking trails, here’s a roundup of the most dangerous places in New York.