Rhode Island, the tiniest state in the US, is facing a major problem: a decrease in population as residents move away. Between 2019 and 2020, Rhode Island saw a decline of 2,625 residents, resulting in a 0.25% decrease in population based on the latest census data. Rhode Island has consistently ranked among states with the highest net out-migration rates due to this ongoing trend. One might wonder why individuals are departing Rhode Island and where they are opting to relocate.
High Taxes and Cost of Living
One of the main reasons people leave Rhode Island is the high taxes and living expenses. Rhode Island has the fourth-highest state and local tax burden in the country, which is 10.8% of income. Moreover, it holds the sixth position in property taxes, the ninth in sales taxes, and the tenth in income taxes. Residents struggle to afford essentials, especially housing, due to financial pressures. Rhode Island has the eighth-highest median home value in the US, which is $334,900, and the tenth-highest median rent, which is $1,200.
As a result, many people choose to live in nearby states such as Massachusetts, Connecticut, or New Hampshire because of their lower taxes and cheaper housing.
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Lack of economic opportunities
Another major factor contributing to the decrease in population in Rhode Island is the lack of economic opportunities. Rhode Island’s economy appears weakened and stagnant with the second-lowest labor force participation rate in the US (61.9%) and the third-highest unemployment rate (7.3%).
Additionally, the state is ranked fourth-lowest in GDP per capita, at $54,948, and fifth-lowest in median household income, at $64,340. When economic challenges arise, many people look for better opportunities in states such as Florida, Texas, or North Carolina. These states have higher GDP growth, lower unemployment rates, and a variety of industries that provide improved job prospects and higher wages.
Deterioration of Life Standards
Another reason people are leaving Rhode Island is the declining quality of life. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, the state has the third-worst infrastructure in the US.
Moreover, the public education system is ranked as the fourth-worst by US News & World Report. Residents’ well-being is negatively affected by the poor condition of roads, bridges, schools, and public services. Many people look for a better quality of life in states such as Vermont, Colorado, or Utah, which have higher ratings in infrastructure, education, health, and environment.
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Where are they headed?
Where are Rhode Island residents moving to? In 2019, the top five states that had the highest number of migrants from Rhode Island were reported by the US Census Bureau:
- Massachusetts: 8,494 individuals
- Florida: 4,779 individuals
- Connecticut: 2,984 individuals
- New York: 2,216 individuals
- North Carolina: 1,819 individuals
These states provide various benefits compared to Rhode Island, such as lower taxes, warmer climate, more job options, and a richer cultural mix.
Nevertheless, they come with their own set of difficulties like traffic, crime, natural disasters, or political polarization. Therefore, moving from one state to another involves various factors that depend on personal choices and situations.
In conclusion
Rhode Island is experiencing a decrease in population due to more people leaving than moving in. The main reasons for this exodus include high taxes and living costs, limited economic opportunities, and a declining quality of life.
Rhode Island residents often move to Massachusetts, Florida, Connecticut, New York, and North Carolina. However, every state comes with its own benefits and disadvantages. In the end, the perfect place to live depends on individual needs and goals, and for some people, that might not be Rhode Island.
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