Ohio is losing population at an alarming rate. According to the latest census data, the state saw a net loss of 18,000 residents in 2023, the largest decline in the nation. This trend has been going on for decades, as Ohioans seek better opportunities and quality of life elsewhere. But where are they going, and why?
The Top Destinations for Ohioans
The most popular states for Ohioans to move to are Florida, Texas, North Carolina, Arizona, and Georgia. These states offer warmer weather, lower taxes, more jobs, and more affordable housing than Ohio. They also have diverse and dynamic cultures, attracting people from different backgrounds and interests.
Florida is the top destination for Ohioans, with more than 50,000 people moving there in 2023. The Sunshine State is known for its beaches, theme parks, retirement communities, and diverse population. Florida also has no income tax, which appeals to many Ohioans who are tired of paying high taxes in their home state.
Texas is the second most popular state for Ohioans, with more than 40,000 people moving there in 2023. The Lone Star State is famous for its oil and gas industry, barbecue, rodeos, and cowboy culture. Texas also has a booming economy, creating more than 300,000 jobs in 2023. Texas also has no income tax, and a low cost of living compared to other states.
North Carolina is the third most popular state for Ohioans, with more than 30,000 people moving there in 2023. The Tar Heel State is known for its scenic mountains, beaches, and forests, as well as its research and technology hubs, such as the Research Triangle Park. North Carolina also has a moderate climate, a rich history, and a diverse culture, attracting people from different walks of life.
Arizona is the fourth most popular state for Ohioans, with more than 20,000 people moving there in 2023. The Grand Canyon State is famous for its natural wonders, such as the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Monument Valley. Arizona also has a warm and dry climate, which appeals to many Ohioans who are fed up with the cold and snowy winters in their home state.
Georgia is the fifth most popular state for Ohioans, with more than 15,000 people moving there in 2023. The Peach State is known for its southern charm, hospitality, and cuisine, as well as its vibrant and diverse cities, such as Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta. Georgia also has a growing economy, especially in the sectors of film, music, and technology, creating more than 200,000 jobs in 2023.
The Reasons for Leaving Ohio
Ohioans have many reasons for leaving their home state, but some of the most common ones are:
Economic stagnation: Ohio has been struggling to keep up with the national economic growth, lagging behind in job creation, income growth, and innovation. Ohio’s unemployment rate was 5.6% in 2023, higher than the national average of 4.2%. Ohio’s median household income was $60,000 in 2023, lower than the national average of $68,000. Ohio’s share of venture capital funding was 0.4% in 2023, far below the national average of 2.7%.
High taxes: Ohio has one of the highest tax burdens in the country, ranking 7th in the nation in state and local taxes as a percentage of income in 2023. Ohioans pay an average of 10.7% of their income in taxes, compared to the national average of 9.8%. Ohio’s income tax rate ranges from 2.85% to 4.8%, depending on the income level. Ohio also has a sales tax rate of 5.75%, plus local sales taxes that can add up to 2.25%.
Poor quality of life: Ohio ranks low in many indicators of quality of life, such as health, education, environment, and happiness. Ohio ranks 39th in the nation in health outcomes, with high rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Ohio ranks 31st in the nation in education attainment, with 28% of adults having a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33%. Ohio ranks 41st in the nation in environmental quality, with high levels of air pollution, water contamination, and waste generation. Ohio ranks 45th in the nation in happiness, with low levels of life satisfaction, social support, and emotional well-being.
The Conclusion
Ohio is facing a population crisis, as more and more people are leaving the state for better opportunities and quality of life elsewhere. The most popular destinations for Ohioans are Florida, Texas, North Carolina, Arizona, and Georgia, which offer warmer weather, lower taxes, more jobs, and more affordable housing than Ohio. Ohio needs to address its economic, fiscal, and social challenges, or risk losing more of its residents and resources in the future.