The idea of leaving New Jersey is unthinkable for many of us, yet families are moving out of the Garden State at high rates. Whether it’s the cost of living, taxes, schools, healthcare facilities, recreation opportunities or local attractions, other areas can be appealing.
Most recently, the pandemic took a toll on NJ residents, with 12,000 people moving to other cities between 2020 and 2021. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, New Jersey was eighth in terms of people moving out of the state by July 2021.
Based on Allied’s 2021 Migration Data Study, there are five main cities that New Jersey residents are moving to, three of which are in Florida:
- Tampa, FL
- Philadelphia, PA
- Sarasota, FL
- Los Angeles, CA
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
Tampa’s job market is thriving, which is appealing in addition to its beautiful beaches and professional sports teams. The weather is great year-round, so families can enjoy lots of outdoor activities. You’ll spend your weekends at Busch Gardens, Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park or the Ybor City neighborhood. The median housing cost, according to Zillow, is $387,000.
Cost of Living scores compare the overall price of goods and services between different areas of the United States. The national average is 100; so, for example, if the cost of living index is 135, then it is 35% more expensive to live there than the national average. If a place has a cost of living index of 85, then it is 15% cheaper than the average for the entire country.
Compared to NJ’s cost of living index at 120.4, the cost of living in Tampa is 103.7. The job market looks more promising in Tampa, too, as the unemployment rate is 2.9%; NJ’s rate is 4.2%. Possibly the biggest draw is that Florida does not collect income tax.
Philadelphia has a relatively low cost of living and vibrant culture for a city, especially when compared to NJ’s other neighbor, New York City. It has its own major sports teams, a zoo, historic sites, markets and of course, cheesesteaks. The median housing cost, according to Zillow, is $228,000.
Compared to NJ, the cost of living in Philly is 105. The unemployment rate is 6.8%. The income tax rate here is 3.8398%.
Sarasota has a lower cost of living than NJ plus a shoreline of beaches. Located along the Gulf Coast, it was once home to Ringling Bros. Circus but you can now visit the Ringling Museum of Art. Lido Beach and Siesta Key Beach are popular destinations.
The median housing cost, according to Zillow, is $447,000. Compared to NJ, the cost of living in Sarasota is 102.9%. The unemployment rate is 2.8%.
Los Angeles may seem like an odd choice because expenses are higher than NJ, but people are drawn to the year-round sunshine, West Coast beaches and industry-leading companies. There are myriad dining and entertainment options. You won’t tire of seeing the Hollywood sign, driving down Rodeo Drive, checking out celebrity names along the Walk of Fame or visiting various movie studios. Plus, you’re bound to see celebrities living their everyday lives.
The median housing cost, according to Zillow, is $965,000. Compared to NJ, the cost of living in LA is 176.2. The unemployment rate is 4.9%. The graduated-rate income tax system in California is up to 12.3%.
Fort Lauderdale has seaside living, lively downtown areas and is reasonably close to Miami Beach and Boca Raton. In your spare time, check out the International Swimming Hall of Fame or Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. The median housing cost, according to Zillow, is $471,000.
Compared to NJ, the cost of living in Fort Lauderdale is 118.5. The unemployment rate is 2.8%.
We don’t want you to leave in NJ, but if you did where would you choose to go?
Read More:
NJ is the Nation’s 7th Best State to Raise a Family
New Jersey is Among the Top States People Are Leaving
