In 2026, migration patterns show Americans are shifting away from several major cities for reasons like rising costs, taxes, and changing lifestyles. Here are 15 cities residents are leaving the most this year, offering insights for travelers and potential movers alike.
1. New York City, New York
New York City continues to see residents leave driven primarily by high living costs and increasing taxes. Housing prices and rents remain steep, pushing many to consider more affordable nearby metros or southern states. While the city remains a hub for culture and entertainment, the daily expenses and crowded conditions prompt moves. Travelers visiting NYC should plan mid-week stays to avoid inflated weekend prices and explore less-touristy boroughs like Queens for a local feel.
2. Los Angeles, California
LA residents are departing due to traffic congestion, rising housing costs, and concerns about urban issues. The city’s sprawling layout means commutes can be long, and property prices have soared beyond many budgets. For visitors, exploring less crowded neighborhoods like Silver Lake or Culver City can offer more affordable dining and boutique shopping. Spring and fall are the best times to visit for milder weather and fewer tourists.
3. Miami, Florida
Despite Florida’s tax advantages, Miami is losing residents amid rising housing prices and concerns about climate-related issues like flooding. The influx of newcomers who pushed real estate costs higher encourages some long-term locals to relocate to quieter, inland areas. Tourists chasing sunny beaches should visit in late spring or early fall when rates dip and the city feels less hectic.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia remains a regional magnet for affordability but is also seeing some residents moving farther south seeking warmer weather and lower costs. Taxes and property expenses weigh on middle-income households, motivating moves to states without personal income tax. Visitors can explore Philly's historic sites year-round but may find winter deals on lodging outside peak tourist months.
5. Boise, Idaho
Once known as an affordable hidden gem, Boise has seen skyrocketing housing prices in recent years. Its rapid growth changed the quiet charm that attracted long-time residents, leading many to leave as costs rise. Visitors aiming for a peaceful mountain city experience should consider weekday visits and local farmers markets for fresh, affordable finds.
6. Seattle, Washington
Seattle faces an exodus motivated by high living expenses and a personal income tax debate looming over local policies. While job opportunities persist, the cost of housing and general expenses push some to more tax-friendly parts of the country. Tourists can enjoy shoulder seasons like late spring when crowds thin and hotel prices moderate.
7. Chicago, Illinois
Many Chicago residents are departing due to a combination of taxes, high property costs, and neighborhood safety concerns. The city’s cold winters add to the reasons some seek milder climates in the South or West. For travelers, summer remains the best season to visit Chicago, when festivals and lakefront activities are in full swing.
8. San Francisco, California
San Francisco's high cost of living and housing affordability crisis have pushed residents outward. Tech sector shifts and remote work also reduce the need for city living. Visitors benefit from visiting in the fall when the weather is often clearer, and hotel rates may be more reasonable compared to summer.
9. Austin, Texas
Austin’s explosive growth pushed rents and home prices sharply upwards, leading some residents to head to more affordable Texas cities or states with no income taxes. Despite its appeal as a music and tech hub, the rising costs challenge many households. Travelers can catch music festivals mainly in spring and fall, with moderate hotel pricing outside major events.
10. Tampa, Florida
Tampa faces some resident departures driven by housing demand outpacing supply and concerns about hurricane risks. Taxes remain favorable here, but rapid population growth has pushed prices up. The best time to visit Tampa is from November to April, when the weather is warm without summer storms.
11. Portland, Oregon
Portland has seen residents leave following rising costs and political tensions. Housing affordability remains a primary issue as the city's population grows. Visitors find spring and early summer enjoyable with blooming gardens and outdoor events, and these periods often offer better hotel availability.
12. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta’s growth and traffic congestion, coupled with property tax increases, motivate some residents to seek suburbs or out-of-state options. However, it remains a vibrant city for culture and business. For travelers, late winter to early spring offers milder weather and fewer tourists at popular spots.
13. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston continues to lose residents facing high taxes and steep housing costs. Many move to more affordable New England towns or southern states. Visitors benefit most from September to November, when the fall foliage colors and cooler weather enhance the city's historic charm.
14. Detroit, Michigan
Detroit’s population decline persists due to economic challenges and a slow rebound in job markets. Property taxes can be a concern, as well as urban renewal discomfort for some residents. Tourists can find affordable accommodations year-round, and summer offers events that showcase Detroit’s cultural revival.
15. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas remains a tax-friendly city without income tax but sees some outbound migration due to housing market volatility and the high cost of utilities. The city’s entertainment and dining scenes still attract visitors, but summers can be prohibitively hot. For the best visitor experience, plan trips in spring or fall when temperatures are more comfortable.
This article was written by Hunter and edited with AI assistance. The Daily Dive travel desk uses AI-assisted visuals and content that were reviewed and approved by our editors prior to publication.
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