Indiana is one of the top states in the nation that is losing population, according to a recent report by Atlas Van Lines. The report, based on the company’s internal data on interstate, cross-border, and international moves, shows that 59% of all Indiana household moves in 2023 were outbound, meaning more people moved out of the state than in. This puts Indiana in the fifth place among the most unpopular states, behind Illinois, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, and Minnesota.
Why are people leaving Indiana?
There are many factors that influence people’s decision to relocate, such as economic opportunities, cost of living, quality of life, climate, and personal preferences. Some of the reasons why people are leaving Indiana are:
Lack of job growth and innovation: Indiana’s economy is largely dependent on manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation, which are sectors that have been hit hard by the pandemic, automation, and global competition. The state also ranks low in terms of innovation, entrepreneurship, and education, which are key drivers of economic development and diversification. According to the U.S. News & World Report, Indiana ranks 40th in the nation for economy, 38th for business environment, and 35th for education.
High taxes and poor governance: Indiana has some of the highest taxes in the region, including the highest sales tax, the second-highest gas tax, and the third-highest property tax. These taxes put a heavy burden on residents and businesses, especially when the state does not provide adequate public services and infrastructure in return.
Indiana also suffers from a chronic fiscal problem, with a large debt and unfunded pension liabilities that amount to more than $50 billion. The state has been downgraded to the second-lowest credit rating among all states by Moody’s and S&P, making it more expensive to borrow money and service its debt. The state also faces a corruption scandal involving its former Attorney General Curtis Hill, who was accused of sexual misconduct and misuse of funds.
Crime and violence: Indiana has some of the highest crime rates in the nation, with more than 400 homicides and 2,000 shootings in 2023. The state also has a reputation for being soft on crime, with low conviction rates and lenient sentences for violent offenders. Many residents feel unsafe and frustrated with the lack of public safety and accountability in the state. According to the U.S. News & World Report, Indiana ranks 45th in the nation for crime and corrections.
Where are people moving to?
The report by Atlas Van Lines reveals that the top destinations for people moving out of Indiana are:
Maine: Maine is the most popular state for inbound moves, with 64% of all moves in 2023 being inbound. Maine offers a scenic and peaceful environment, with abundant natural resources, wildlife, and outdoor activities. The state also has a low cost of living, a high quality of life, and a friendly and welcoming culture. Maine is also known for its progressive and innovative policies, such as ranked-choice voting, universal broadband access, and renewable energy goals.
North Carolina: North Carolina is the second-most popular state for inbound moves, with 64% of all moves in 2023 being inbound. North Carolina boasts a dynamic and diverse economy, with strong sectors in technology, biotechnology, banking, and education. The state also has a low cost of living, a high quality of life, and a mild and sunny climate. North Carolina is also home to some of the best universities and research institutions in the nation, such as Duke, UNC, and NC State.
New Hampshire: New Hampshire is the third-most popular state for inbound moves, with 60% of all moves in 2023 being inbound. New Hampshire offers a balance of urban and rural living, with access to both the mountains and the coast. The state also has a low tax burden, a high quality of life, and a strong sense of community. New Hampshire is also known for its political and civic engagement, as it hosts the first-in-the-nation presidential primary and has the largest state legislature in the nation.
Conclusion
Indiana is facing a serious population decline, as more people are leaving the state than moving in. The main reasons for this trend are the lack of job growth and innovation, the high taxes and poor governance, and the crime and violence. These factors have created a negative feedback loop, as fewer people and businesses mean less revenue and growth, which in turn lead to more fiscal and social problems, which further drive people away. Unless the state can reverse this cycle and address its challenges, it will continue to lose its appeal and its people.