A new study by United Van Lines reveals that more people are leaving Illinois, making it the second-highest state for outbound moves in 2023. The National Movers Study by U-Haul showed that 61% of moves in the state were outbound, with 39% being inbound.
The main reasons cited for moving out of Illinois were work (26.10%) and retirement (21.40%), according to the survey. Surprisingly, “high cost of living” was reported as the least likely reason for residents leaving the state. Crime wasn’t even mentioned.
OUTBOUND MOVING REASONS:
- Retirement – 21.40%
- Health – 4.30%
- Family – 19.70%
- Lifestyle – 11.40%
- Job – 26.10%
- Cost – 3.60%
The study indicates a nationwide trend of Americans moving to more affordable and lower-density areas, with many choosing Southern states. New Jersey topped the list of most outbound states, with Illinois following in the second position. The data also showed that more people moved to Vermont than any other state, with 65% of moves being inbound.
The U-Haul Growth Index is calculated by comparing the net gain of one-way U-Haul trucks arriving in a state or city against the net gain of U-Haul trucks departing that state or city for a specific calendar year. U-Haul says there are more than 2 million one-way U-Haul truck transactions each year within the United States and Canada.
New Census reports estimate that Illinois has lost around 33,000 residents since July 2022.
To see the full study, tap or click here.
