Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin, is experiencing a notable departure of residents, especially among millennials. According to a study by the Brookings Institution, Milwaukee saw a decrease of 9,000 millennials from 2010 to 2015, placing it 46th among 53 major metropolitan areas in the US. Why are individuals leaving Milwaukee and where are they going?
Causes of Migration
There are several reasons why people are leaving Milwaukee:
- Opportunities for Economic Growth: The city’s economy lags behind regional counterparts such as Minneapolis and Chicago, with a lower median household income, higher poverty rate, and elevated unemployment rate compared to the national average. Consequently, numerous people are looking for improved job opportunities and increased pay in different states.
- Milwaukee’s climate features cold and snowy winters, with an average annual temperature of 46.3°F and around 46 inches of snowfall per year, which may not be attractive to all. Especially, people who are getting older or retiring often look for warmer and sunnier places.
- Milwaukee’s quality of life is negatively impacted by high crime rates, low life expectancy, and limited educational attainment. The city is facing challenges with its infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and water systems, which require immediate attention for repairs and improvements. Residents may choose to move to find improved public services, education, and healthcare systems due to dissatisfaction.
Top Travel Spots
According to USPS data, here are the top 10 states people are moving to from Milwaukee:
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- Florida
- Everything is bigger in Texas!
- Arizona
- North Carolina
- Georgia
- Tennessee
- South Carolina
- California
- Colorado
- Ohio
Also Read: People Are Fleeing From Virginia to Other States, Here is Why
These states have similar qualities that draw in Milwaukee residents
- States in warmer climates typically experience milder winters and higher average temperatures compared to Milwaukee. For example, Florida has an average yearly temperature of 70.7°F and very little snow, allowing residents to enjoy various outdoor activities.
- States like Wisconsin have lower taxes, particularly when it comes to income and property taxes. Choosing Texas can be attractive for individuals looking to lower their tax obligations due to its lack of state income tax and lower property tax rate.
- Enhanced Opportunities: These states provide greater economic potential, especially in industries such as technology, healthcare, and tourism. For instance, Texas has a lower unemployment rate and higher median household income than Wisconsin, making it appealing to those seeking better job prospects and increased earnings.
In conclusion
Milwaukee is experiencing a decrease in population, as more people are leaving than moving in. Factors driving this trend include economic challenges, climate preferences, and concerns about the city’s quality of life. States with warmer climates, lower taxes, and improved economic opportunities are the most popular choices for people moving. To reverse this trend, Milwaukee needs to tackle its current challenges and work on improving its overall appeal to attract and keep residents in the future.
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