Top States Gaining and Losing Residents in 2026 Revealed

New report from National Taxpayers Union Foundation sheds light on shifting migration patterns across the U.S.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:58pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating grid of stylized moving boxes in vibrant neon hues, capturing the essence of the nationwide migration trends reported.As Americans continue to relocate across state lines, the moving boxes they pack symbolize the shifting tides of population and political power.Knoxville Today

A new study from the National Taxpayers Union Foundation (NTUF) has analyzed IRS data to map out where Americans are moving to and from across the country. The report reveals that Florida, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee are the top states gaining new residents, while California, New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, and New Jersey are seeing the biggest population losses. The findings suggest that tax and spending policies may be driving some of these migration trends, as people seek out more fiscally responsible states to live in.

Why it matters

These migration patterns don't just impact the states involved - they can also affect local economies, housing markets, voting preferences, and the need for infrastructure and community resources. As people move, they take their spending power, job skills, and political leanings with them, potentially boosting some areas while burdening others. Understanding these trends is crucial for policymakers, urban planners, and businesses to adapt to the changing landscape.

The details

According to the NTUF report, Florida is the top state gaining new residents, adding one roughly every 2 minutes and 9 seconds. Texas is a close second, attracting someone new about every 2 minutes and 53 seconds. North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee round out the top five states seeing the biggest influxes. On the flip side, California is losing residents the fastest, with someone leaving every 1 minute and 44 seconds. New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, and New Jersey also top the list of states experiencing the largest population declines.

  • The NTUF report analyzed IRS data from 2021 to 2022.
  • Newsweek reached out to NTUF for insights on Monday.

The players

National Taxpayers Union Foundation (NTUF)

A nonpartisan group dedicated to research and education on taxpayer issues.

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What’s next

The report's findings raise questions about whether these migration patterns will continue or if external factors could reverse the tide. Experts will likely continue to analyze the data and debate the underlying drivers behind the population shifts.

The takeaway

This report highlights how Americans are 'voting with their feet' when it comes to state tax and spending policies, with many seeking out more fiscally responsible locations to live. While other factors like climate, jobs, and community ties also play a role, the data suggests taxes may be a key driver behind these migration trends that could reshape the country's political and economic landscape.