Many New Yorkers Considering Leaving the State
A recent poll reveals that roughly one-third of New Yorkers are contemplating leaving the state within the next five years. The main reasons seem to revolve around the rising cost of living and a drop in quality of life.
An astonishing 86% of those surveyed by Marist believe New York is becoming unaffordable for the average family, a figure that has risen from 82% in 2025.
High costs are driving 40% of respondents to consider moving, while 21% cite quality of life issues. Taxes and political factors resonated with 15% and 10% of participants, respectively. This data comes from a Marist poll conducted recently.
Additionally, about 7% expressed frustration with the weather.
City residents were especially upset after a winter storm left sidewalks littered with dog waste and heaps of uncollected trash following the snowfall.
The survey indicates that over half, specifically 51%, of respondents are unhappy with their current quality of life.
This surprising study emerges alongside Mayor Zoran Mamdani’s controversial proposal for a 9.5% increase in property taxes, which has faced backlash from local black homeowners.
Experts warn that this tax hike could further inflate rent prices for already struggling residents.
Mamdani has characterized the proposal as a “last resort” to generate revenue for the city’s hefty $127 billion budget unless Albany and Governor Kathy Hochul agree to increase income taxes for those earning above $1 million annually.
Governor Hochul currently enjoys an approval rating of 46%, the highest since October 2021. However, 56% of registered voters still believe that Albany is steering the state in the wrong direction.
As the gubernatorial election approaches, Mamdani holds a significant 17-point lead over Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman.
On another note, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has experienced a dramatic drop in approval, plummeting 34 points in a year to an all-time low of 27% in his home state.
The Democratic Party, which has represented New York in the Senate since 1999, now appears to be viewed negatively by about 50% of its own voters, according to the survey.
