The Empire State is losing residents by the hundreds of thousands due to what Republicans call major mismanagement of New York’s state government. The largest recipient of these new residents is Florida, which has seen significant growth over the last decade.
New York is facing unique pressures that are causing the exodus. A recent survey sought to find out why so many New Yorkers were leaving for Florida. According to the results, more than a quarter left for a better tax environment. And 25% left for lower costs of living. Significant numbers cited better job opportunities and weather. Surprisingly, better weather was the least-chosen option.
The news came after census data revealed that New York was a major loser of residents moving in recent years. More than 300,000 left since the start of the pandemic.
There are a number of causes for he great migration from New York. The pandemic and the rise of work-from-home jobs certainly played a role. However, in more recent times rampant inflation and increasing crime have pushed many ordinary residents out of the state.
Furthermore, much of the migration pattern can be explained through simple economics. New York is currently rated as the second-to-worst tax state in the union, behind only New Jersey.
The state ranks dead last in the average amount paid in state and local taxes, with New Yorkers shelling out almost 16% of their income each year.
In contrast, Florida is consistently rated near the top: they are rated fourth for overall burden by the Tax Foundation. The state also has some key advantages, including being ranked first in terms of taxes on individuals. Florida residents pay almost half in state and local taxes compared to their counterparts in New York.
Based on your policies @NYCMayor, it's fair to assume you value lawlessness & political agendas in classrooms.
Based on migration rates out of NY and into FL , it's also fair to conclude that many people don't agree with those values.
Florida values freedom, life, and truth. https://t.co/t5KUtjSv1Y
— Bryan Griffin (@BryanDGriffin) February 20, 2023
Conservatives point to the major differences in taxes and business regulation when explaining the shift. Florida has grown considerably during the tenure of Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL). The recent migration figures will likely be a theme in his probable campaign for president in 2024.
