BOSTON - The exodus from Massachusetts shows no signs of slowing down, as revealed by the recently released 2023 National Movers Study conducted by United Van Lines. The study ranked Massachusetts seventh on the list of "Most Moved From States" last year, with a significant majority of customer moves being outbound.

According to the survey, 57% of customer moves in Massachusetts were outbound, mirroring the numbers from the previous year. While the high cost of living in the state, particularly in the Boston area, has been a prominent concern, only 2% of respondents cited it as a reason for their decision to move.

Among the top reasons mentioned by those leaving Massachusetts, finding better job opportunities elsewhere accounted for 28% of the departures. Approximately 19% moved out due to family-related reasons, while 18% were seeking a retirement destination elsewhere. Additionally, 16% of respondents cited "lifestyle changes" as their motivation for leaving the state.

The states that saw a higher percentage of outbound moves than Massachusetts were California, Michigan, New York, North Dakota, Illinois, and New Jersey, which topped the list as the state with the highest percentage of residents moving out.

Interestingly, the study also found that other New England states are experiencing an influx of new residents. Vermont claimed the top spot as the "inbound" state for the third consecutive year, with over 65% of all moves into the state. Residents moving to Vermont cited family, lifestyle, and job opportunities as primary factors influencing their decision.

Rhode Island also made the list, ranking fifth among inbound states, with 45% of surveyed individuals stating that a new job was the reason behind their move. Other states attracting the most inbound moves in 2023 included Arkansas (4), South Carolina (3), and Washington, D.C. (2).

Eily Cummins, spokesperson for United Van Lines, commented on the study's findings, stating, "We are continuing to see the trend that Americans are moving to more affordable, lower-density areas across the country, with many heading to Southern states."

As the exodus from Massachusetts persists, the state faces challenges in retaining its population while neighboring New England states showcase their allure to newcomers. With job opportunities, affordability, and a desirable lifestyle cited as factors influencing migration patterns, it remains to be seen how Massachusetts will navigate these trends and work towards attracting and retaining its residents.