UPDATE: Massachusetts has improved slightly in its out-migration rate but still ranks a troubling 46th in the nation for one-way U-Haul customer exits, according to the newly released 2026 Growth Index Report. This marks a minor improvement from its previous position of 49th in 2025, yet concerns about the state’s affordability persist.
In a stark illustration of resident dissatisfaction, Massachusetts remains among the bottom five states for out-migration, alongside fellow Democrat-controlled states like California, New York, New Jersey, and Illinois. U-Haul’s rankings are derived from comparing one-way arrivals to departures, reflecting a significant trend where 51.8% of moves were outbound in the past year.
The Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance, a critic of high taxation in the state, highlights that all nine states without an income tax have improved their migration standings. Executive Director Paul Diego Craney attributes this to “high taxes, rising housing costs, and burdensome NetZero climate mandates.” In urgency, he calls on lawmakers to repeal the Fair Share Amendment, the so-called millionaires’ tax, stating, “This data tells a very different story. When people are voting with their feet year after year, it’s not because of the weather.”
Conversely, the group Raise Up Massachusetts advocates for the 4% surtax on incomes exceeding $1 million, claiming it has expanded the millionaire population in the state. Spokesman Andrew Farnitano argues that corporate lobbyists will misuse the U-Haul data to push for tax breaks for the wealthy, asserting that “working families in Massachusetts are clearly struggling with the high cost of living.”
Despite varying perspectives, there is consensus on the pressing need for state leadership to address affordability. U-Haul indicates that climate influences relocation decisions, with southern states dominating the top destinations. Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina lead the inflow rankings, contrasting starkly with northern states.
MassGOP Chairwoman Amy Carnevale links the state’s low U-Haul ranking to “failed leadership under Gov. Maura Healey,” blaming rising utility bills and taxes for diminishing competitiveness. In defense, Healey’s spokesperson, Karissa Hand, points to Massachusetts being ranked as the best state for various quality-of-life factors, including education and healthcare.
The ongoing migration trend has serious implications for the state’s economy and social fabric. As families continue to leave, the urgency for comprehensive policy reform has never been clearer. The U-Haul report underscores a critical narrative: many residents feel compelled to leave Massachusetts due to escalating living costs and an unwelcoming economic climate.
Looking ahead, all eyes are on state lawmakers to respond to these emerging challenges effectively. With the latest U-Haul data serving as a stark reminder of the pressing need for change, residents and advocates continue to push for a more sustainable and affordable Massachusetts.
