Key Takeaways:

  • NYC saw a net loss in residents in 2022, with more people leaving than moving in.
  • A significant portion of New Yorkers left for nearby areas, particularly New Jersey and Florida.
  • Within NYC, Brooklyn and Manhattan experienced the most intra-city relocations.
  • The tri-state area and California were primary sources of new NYC residents.
  • Wealthier residents, earning $100,000+ annually, were more likely to move into NYC than leave.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic sparked significant shifts in domestic migration patterns, with many seeking more affordable living and opportunities for homeownership. While New York City was not immune to these outflows, the city still attracted new residents from across the country.

352,000 Residents Left NYC, Half Stayed Close by
In 2022, NYC faced a net loss of nearly 177,800 residents, with 352,100 leaving the city and 174,400 moving in. Notably, half of those who left NYC didn’t go far, with many relocating within the tri-state area to New Jersey and Connecticut.

Intra-City Moves: The NYC Shuffle
A significant number of New Yorkers opted to move within the city itself, with around 125,500 people changing boroughs. Brooklyn and Queens saw the most relocations, with many from Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island moving to these areas due to more affordable housing options and space.

Migration Trends: Local and National Inflows
Residents from New York State, especially from Nassau, Westchester, and Suffolk counties, made up a large portion of NYC’s incoming residents. In addition, New Jersey contributed nearly 23,800 newcomers to the city. California, especially Los Angeles and San Francisco, was another notable source of migration.

The West Coast Influence
California stood out as the second-largest out-of-state source of new New Yorkers, with over 16,000 residents moving to the city. Interestingly, more residents moved from tech hubs like San Francisco to NYC, contributing to a positive net migration for the city.

Florida and New Jersey: Popular Choices for Those Leaving NYC
While NYC experienced migration losses, nearby states like New Jersey and Florida saw large numbers of former New Yorkers relocating. New Jersey, in particular, absorbed the most NYC residents, especially from counties like Hudson, Bergen, and Essex. Florida also saw a significant influx, with Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties being top destinations.

The Income Factor
Income data highlighted that high earners were more likely to move into NYC than leave it. Specifically, those making $100,000 or more annually were attracted to the city’s vibrant job market and opportunities.

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