Upstate United Releases Fact Sheet on New York’s Population Problems

May 14th, 2021

Upstate United, a non-partisan pro-taxpayer organization, has released a new fact sheet highlighting New York’s outmigration and sluggish growth. Troubling Trends – New York’s Population Problems follows the release of select data from the 2020 Census by the U.S. Census Bureau.

While the state’s population grew by 4.2 percent over the last decade, New York continues to experience high outmigration. Estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau found that New York’s population actually declined from 2019 through 2020 by 126,355 – the highest of 16 states with declining populations.

“New York’s population problems are symptomatic of our economic problems,” said Justin Wilcox, executive director of Upstate United. “Considering the state’s massive tax burden and harsh anti-business climate, it’s clear that New York is having trouble competing with other states for residents and jobs. Without meaningful tax relief and pro-job reforms, New York – especially Upstate communities – will struggle to grow.”

Florida and Texas, both of which are widely viewed as low-tax states with hospitable business climates, experienced population growth at rates of 14.6 percent and 15.9 percent respectively. For the first time in nation’s history, the population Florida was larger than New York’s.

“There’s been a lot of talk about building back better and smarter. In order to do that, New York also needs to get growing,” said Wilcox. “A better business climate and lower taxes will help us keep young residents here and attract people from other states. That win-win approach will support our communities and strengthen our economy.”

View Upstate United’s Troubling Trends – New York’s Population Problems fact sheet here.