New Jersey’s Outmigration Problem—A Wake-Up Call for Our Leaders
By Giuseppe Palmeri, Councilman, Jackson Township
For seven years in a row, New Jersey has been among the top states in the nation for outmigration. Residents and businesses are leaving at alarming rates, citing exorbitant taxes, high costs of living, and policies that undermine long-term stability. The state is at a crossroads: continue down this unsustainable path or enact reforms to restore affordability and competitiveness.
New Jersey’s property taxes remain the highest in the nation, averaging more than $9,000 per homeowner annually. These costs are compounded by the state’s corporate tax rate of 11.5%, the highest in the country, which drives businesses to more tax-friendly states like Florida and Texas. Additionally, high-income earners face some of the steepest personal income tax rates, contributing to a shrinking tax base as wealthier residents move elsewhere.
The financial burdens extend beyond taxes. Overregulation has created barriers for small businesses, stifling growth and innovation. Families struggle to afford the basics as housing costs and energy prices continue to climb. These economic pressures are not just numbers—they’re real challenges that force people to uproot their lives and seek better opportunities elsewhere.
Another contributing factor is New Jersey’s sanctuary state policies, which place additional strain on public resources and infrastructure. While compassion is important, these policies often conflict with federal immigration laws and burden local communities that are already grappling with overcrowded schools, overdevelopment, and stretched municipal budgets.
To reverse this trend, state leaders must prioritize comprehensive reforms. Lowering property taxes and reducing the corporate tax rate would send a strong message that New Jersey is open for business. Streamlining regulations can help attract new businesses and encourage existing ones to expand. At the same time, addressing overdevelopment and improving infrastructure will make the state more livable for residents.
New Jersey has significant assets: a strategic location, a highly educated workforce, and a diverse cultural landscape. But these advantages are being overshadowed by policies that make the state less attractive to families and businesses.
The exodus from New Jersey is not inevitable—it is a consequence of choices made in Trenton. It’s time for bold, pragmatic leadership that prioritizes economic growth, affordability, and sustainability. If state leaders act decisively, New Jersey can regain its status as a place where people want to live, work, and thrive.