More People Are Leaving New Jersey Than Almost Any Other State But Here's Why It's Not All Bad

For the past five years, New Jersey has lost a larger percentage of its population than any other state. For the first time in half a decade, we rank number two on this list, with Illinois being the number one state facing a mass emigration. Still, over sixty percent of New Jersey moves in 2017 were residents moving out, not in. This isn’t a great thing. It often means less tax revenue and decreased purchasing power, but it isn’t all bad.

Flickr/Ted Kerwin

More than two million people left New Jersey between 2005 and 2014. That may mean two million less cars on the road. Rush hour can get pretty chaotic and we could all use a little less traffic. This photo was taken on the Garden State Parkway.

Flickr/Jazz Guy

You have to leave early, or you'll be fighting for a spot on the sand. Fewer people means more room. Nearby states like New York and Connecticut are losing residents, too, clearing the Bennies from the beach.

Advertisement

Related Stories

This Incredible Flower Road Trip Through New Jersey Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

8 Waterfront Retreats In New Jersey That Are Perfect For Warm Weather Adventures

You Can Get A Fresh-Baked Pastry In The Drive-Thru At This Quaint Eatery In New Jersey

Flickr/Mike Mozart

People are leaving New Jersey, but we are getting quite a few new businesses. The American Dream Mall in the Meadowlands will open...one day, and the first Dave & Buster's in New Jersey opened last year in Woodbridge. A Wayne location is opening in February and they're currently looking to hire 300 local employees.

Advertisement

Flickr/Jim Lukach

New Jersey may be losing residents, but we're still the most densely populated state in the nation. Fewer people means just a bit more peace and quiet. If you're a nature lover, you just may enjoy a little more seclusion on your hikes. This shot was taken near the Appalachian Trail along the Delaware Water Gap.

So, why are people leaving? It’s mainly the cost of living. Young people are leaving to find jobs in more affordable states (like Vermont, Washington and Colorado) while older residents are retiring and want to make the most of their savings. Retirees currently make up the bulk of residents leaving New Jersey, and they’re flocking to warmer states including Florida, California and North Carolina.

Others still are heading to more budget-friendly Pennsylvania, and commuting into New Jersey for work every day. Counties losing the most residents include Bergen and Passaic. Of course, new residents move in. In 2014, 400,000 people may have left our state but over 350,000 moved in…the deficit was just around 33,700. Where are we getting residents from? All over, including New York City (unsurprisingly).

Sure, it’s sad to see people leave but the Garden State still has a lot going on. I’m going to make the most out of all we have to offer! What do we have to offer? Oh, just spectacular scenery, whimsical antique shops, and the largest planetarium in North America, for starters.