Record High Number of Out-of-State Relocations to Florida in Almost 20 Years, with New York, California, and New Jersey Leading as Primary States of Origin
November 11, 2023
In 2022, Florida experienced a notable influx of residents, surpassing the highest net and gross migration levels since 2005. According to the US Census Bureau’s state-to-state migration estimates for 2022, 738,969 individuals relocated to Florida, while 489,905 people moved out, resulting in a net inflow of 249,064 to the Sunshine State.
These new Florida residents’ primary origins were in New York, New Jersey, and California. New York led the way, with 69,901 people moving to Florida, New Jersey with 37,373, and California with 22,144.
Notably, the migration from New York to Florida, historically exhibiting a positive net flow, reached the second-highest level in 2022. 91,201 New Yorkers moved to Florida, outpacing the 21,300 Floridians who relocated to New York. This net migration of 69,901 individuals represents a 59% increase compared to 2019 and a slight 1% decrease from 2021.
California also contributed significantly to Florida’s population growth, experiencing a net migration of 22,144 people in 2022. This migration marked the highest level of net migration from California since 2016, with 50,701 Californians moving to Florida, a 77% increase compared to 2019.
Similarly, New Jersey witnessed a surge in migration to Florida, with 47,000 people relocating in 2022. The gross migration from New Jersey to Florida increased by 67% compared to 2019, totaling 28,222 individuals.
Other top contributors to Florida’s population growth were Illinois and Pennsylvania. Although Florida has historically seen a net migration from these states, the gross migration in 2022 reached its highest levels in years, with 35,262 individuals moving from Illinois and 35,384 from Pennsylvania.
However, it’s worth noting that Florida experienced population loss to certain states, led by Georgia (-11,390), North Carolina (-10,319), and Tennessee (-4,667). Despite this, the outmigration to these states in 2022 was relatively small compared to previous years.
Several factors contribute to the rising net migration to Florida. The state’s warm climate, lack of state income tax, and lower housing costs compared to states like New York, California, and New Jersey are attractive features. According to a recent analysis, Florida’s housing costs remain affordable, with an annual median selected owner cost of $20,952 in 2022.
Additionally, Florida’s robust job market, evident in its 3% year-over-year growth in nonfarm payroll employment in September 2023, is a significant draw. The state boasts the highest number of business applications, further indicating its economic vitality.
The trend of early retirement may also contribute to the migration surge, as reflected in the lower labor force participation rate among the 55+ age group.
In conclusion, the data suggests that Florida’s appeal is growing, driven by favorable weather, economic opportunities, and lower living costs compared to other states. The net migration to Florida in 2022 reflects a significant demographic shift, marking the highest levels in nearly two decades.
