F
ive states saw a significant influx of residents leaving in 2024, according to Atlas Van Lines. The top five states with the highest number of outbound moves were Louisiana, California, Illinois, South Dakota, and New York.
The main reasons for this mass exodus varied by state. In Louisiana, lack of jobs and job opportunities was the primary reason, with an unemployment rate of 4.3% in November, slightly higher than the national average. Additionally, a study ranked Louisiana as one of the worst states for life expectancy, which may have contributed to residents leaving.
The high cost of living was another major factor driving relocations from California and New York. The Golden State had the second-highest cost of living in the US, while New York ranked fifth. In Los Angeles, housing costs were particularly out of reach, with property taxes pushing into five figures for new homebuyers.
Taxes also played a significant role in people relocating out of state, particularly from Illinois. The state was ranked as the least tax-friendly in the country, with state and local taxes representing about 13% of a median family's income.
Extreme weather conditions were another factor influencing relocation, with South Dakota's harsh winters and high winds making it an unappealing destination for some residents.
The states with the highest rates of outbound moves offer more housing opportunities for homebuyers. Here are the top five states people moved from in 2024:
1. Louisiana: The median listing price was $325,000, with a monthly house payment of $1,714 and a recommended household income of $68,564.
2. California: The median listing price was $1,094,000, with a monthly house payment of $5,770 and a recommended household income of $230,797.
3. Illinois: The median listing price was $347,450, with a monthly house payment of $1,833 and a recommended household income of $73,300.
4. South Dakota: The median listing price was $369,975, with a monthly house payment of $1,951 and a recommended household income of $78,052.
5. New York: The median listing price was $749,000, with a monthly house payment of $3,950 and a recommended household income of $158,014.
