Georgia used to be a battleground for the 2020 presidential election and the 2021 Senate runoffs. Now, the state is having a different kind of problem: a lot of its people are leaving. As of 2023, the U.S. Census Bureau says Georgia lost 60,000 people, which was more than any other state. Who is leaving Georgia and why?
The Reasons for Departure
Numerous reasons lead people from Georgia to choose to leave their state and move to another one. Here are some of the most common:
Unhappiness with politics: Georgia has had a lot of political unrest and trouble in the last few years, especially after the 2020 election and the claims of voting fraud and other problems that followed. A lot of people in Georgia are disappointed and angry with the state’s politics and don’t trust the voting system. Some people also feel left out because the state has changed from a haven for conservatives to one that is more competitive and diverse.
Trouble with the economy: The COVID-19 outbreak and the resulting lockdowns and limits have done a lot of damage to Georgia’s economy. In December 2023, the state’s jobless rate was 6.2%, which was higher than the national rate of 5.4%. Because of the pandemic, a lot of Georgians have lost their jobs, businesses, or income, and they are having a hard time making ends meet. Some people are moving to other states to find better job chances and lower cost of living.
Social unrest: In the past year, Georgia has also seen a lot of social unrest and violence. For example, there were protests and riots after two white men shot and killed Black man Ahmaud Arbery while he was running in a Brunswick, Georgia area. There have also been more hate crimes and racial issues in the state. This is especially true for Asian Americans, who are being attacked by people who think they are to blame for the coronavirus spread. A lot of Georgians don’t feel safe or accepted in their own towns, so they leave to find a place that is safer and more accepting.
Top Destinations for Georgia Movers.
According to research by United Van Lines, a moving firm that studies state-by-state migration patterns, the top destinations for Georgia movers in 2023 were:
Florida was the most popular destination for Georgia movers, accounting for 18% of all outbound moves. Florida has a warmer temperature, fewer taxes, more recreational opportunities, and a comparable culture to Georgia. Many seniors, families, and young professionals are lured to Florida’s attractions and possibilities.
Texas was the second-most popular destination for Georgia movers, accounting for 14% of all outbound moves. Texas has a thriving economy, a low cost of living, a diversified population, and a business-friendly climate. Many Georgians are drawn to Texas’ thriving industries, including oil, technology, and healthcare.
North Carolina was the third most common destination for Georgia movers, accounting for 11% of all outbound movements. North Carolina has a combination of urban and rural environments, a good standard of living, a rich history and culture, and beautiful scenery. Many Georgians are drawn to North Carolina’s educational and scientific institutions, such as Scientific Triangle Park, as well as its natural beauty and outdoor leisure opportunities.
The Implications of Exodus
Georgia’s flight to other states has far-reaching political and economic consequences. Some of the potential implications include:
A loss of political power: If Georgia’s population drops, the state could lose congressional seats and electoral votes in the next process of redistricting and reapportioning, which will be based on the 2020 census data. This might make Georgia less powerful and visible in national politics, and it might change the balance of power between the two main groups.
An economic downturn: As Georgia’s population drops, the state may lose some of its human capital, tax base, and customer market. This could make the economy less strong and competitive. This could make it harder for Georgia to get and keep businesses, capital, and talented people, which could slow its growth and creativity potential.
A loss of social variety: As Georgia’s population drops, it may also lose some of its race, cultural, and ethnic diversity. This could make the state less cohesive and multicultural. This could change Georgia’s personality and character, as well as its ability to get along with others and be tolerant.
Conclusion
Georgia will lose 60,000 people in 2023, which is a big chunk of its population. This is mostly because people are unhappy with politics, the economy, and social unrest. Florida, Texas, and North Carolina are some of the most popular places for people to go. Georgia could lose governmental power, see its economy fall, and lose social diversity as a result of the flight. This could hurt the country’s reputation, economy, and culture.