Study Finds Massachusetts Continues to See Decline in Resident Numbers

A recent study reveals that despite overall growth, there's a hidden trend: an increasing number of residents are moving out to other regions of the country.

In Massachusetts, a recent study uncovered that the state is witnessing an annual loss of tens of thousands of residents, with a significant outflow observed among working adults aged 25 to 44.

According to the study by Boston Indicators, Massachusetts has seen a rise in its population over the last few decades. However, this general growth has obscured a worrying trend: the increasing departure of long-term residents to other regions of the country. Without the compensatory influx from international migration, the state would have experienced population decline for several years.

The study, titled "Mass. Migration: An Analysis of Outmigration from Massachusetts Over the Last Two Decades," highlighted that the departure of residents results in a decline in political influence. Massachusetts saw a reduction in its U.S. House district representation during the redistricting process in 2012.

The decline in population also results in economic setbacks, with fewer businesses and job opportunities being generated, ultimately leading to shortfalls in tax revenue.

Migration losses are evident across all income brackets. Nevertheless, Massachusetts is experiencing a higher outflow of middle- and high-income residents. Specifically, in 2022, the state saw a net decrease of 16,984 high-income individuals and 13,748 middle-income individuals.

This pattern predominantly impacts individuals aged 25 to 44 compared to other age cohorts. Between 2006 and 2022, Massachusetts experienced a net decrease of 129,800 residents within this age range. Additionally, the state witnessed losses in the 45-to-64 and 65+ age categories, with only marginal increases in the 18-to-24 demographic.

Identifying the precise reasons for people departing the state is challenging; however, the study suggests that the cost of housing is likely a significant factor.

"The study suggests that housing costs may be a key factor in this trend," with home prices skyrocketing by 20 percent in 2021 and 33 percent in 2022 compared to 2018.

Access the complete analysis in Boston Indicators.

A separate recent report arrived at comparable findings. Earlier this year, United Van Lines placed Massachusetts among the states experiencing the highest volume of departures in the nation.