All UNH Survey Center Polls
Abstract
Just over half of Rhode Islanders say the state is a very good or good place to live, particularly Democrats and those with a college degree. But Rhode Islanders overwhelmingly feel the state is an unaffordable place to live, particularly young people. Four in ten current residents, and half of those aged 35 to 64, would like to move out of Rhode Island, while more than a third of state residents say they are likely to do so within the next five years. Those who are likely to leave most often cite a desire for lower housing costs, overall cost of living, and taxes, along with a different political or social environment. Rhode Islanders are most likely to say they would move elsewhere in New England if they had to leave Rhode Island, with Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine popular destinations. Nearly half of those who are likely to leave Rhode Island would move to the South, with Florida and the Carolinas common choices.
Department
Ocean State Poll
Publication Date
7-7-2026
Document Type
Report
Recommended Citation
UNH Survey Center, "Half of Middle-Aged Rhode Islanders Want to Move Out of State 7/7/2026" (2026). All UNH Survey Center Polls. 978.
https://scholars.unh.edu/survey_center_polls/978