Data reveals an exodus from the city of Boston. The Boston population is steadily decreasing, while the state of Massachusetts’ population remains relatively stable. Some Bostonians are leaving the city, while others are saying goodbye to the northeast altogether and moving to states like California and Florida.
What is the current Boston population?
The most recent census counts a total of 650,706 people residing in Boston. That’s a drop from 675,632 in previous years.
How many people left Boston in 2022?
According to the U.S. Census, approximately 25,000 people left Boston in the last year. While the data has a margin of error as some people have several households, or no permanent residence, the most popular metro-to-metro transitions are Barnstable, MA (3,000), Chicago (2,900), Dallas (1,000), Hartford (2,485), Los Angeles (3,372), Manchester, NH (6,132), and Miami (3,070).
Other notable moves for Bostonians include Worcester, New Jersey, Washington D.C., and overseas to Europe, Asia, Central America, and even parts of the Caribbean.
Where are these Bostonians going?
A handful of them move to other Massachusetts cities and suburbs. But the majority of them are leaving the state for warmer and/or more affordable options.
Why are people leaving?
Census data doesn’t reveal the motivation for geographic mobility. However, as one of the U.S. cities with the highest rent, and worst traffic, those factors could be two adverse motivators to move out. As an education hub with brutal winters, many come here for the education but leave to settle down in warmer climates.
There is also the prospect of growing families needing more room and heading out to areas with more land whether it be the suburbs or new states altogether.
The future of Boston
Despite the data, Boston is focused on growing its residential complexes more than ever. The Dorchester Bay Project will bring in 391 affordable housing options by 2025. There has also been a big shift to luxury housing in Boston, like the forthcoming Ritz Carlton residence units towering South Station. Bostonians voice concern over the focus on luxury units rather than the desperately needed affordable housing options for residents.
Despite the data, Bostonians are incredibly loyal. If you’re a tried and true one, check out our local guide for the best things to do in this beautiful city!