Map Reveals Cities Suffering Worst Exoduses in 2026

A recent map released by the Bank of America Institute highlights cities that are experiencing the most significant out-migration in 2026. Memphis, Tennessee, stands out as the city suffering the sharpest decline in population, down by nearly 1% compared to the previous year. Other major metropolitan areas, such as Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Boston, Miami, Baltimore, Orlando, New York, San Jose, and St. Louis, also showed notable drops in their resident populations.

The report reveals that the migration trend has slowed down among Americans, with declines reported across various income groups, generations, and types of moves. However, lower-income households and millennials have been particularly affected by this trend, indicating that affordability plays a crucial role in people's decision to move.

In contrast to the national trend, the Midwest emerged as the fastest-growing region in the country during the second quarter of 2026, accounting for most of the fastest-growing metros. Cities like Indianapolis, Columbus, Louisville, Cincinnati, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Grand Rapids, and Cleveland all experienced population growth, with Indianapolis boasting the highest growth rate at +1.87%.

Salt Lake City, Utah, emerged as the city with the biggest year-over-year population growth in the second quarter of 2026, up by 1.88%. Its appeal to newcomers can be attributed to its low employment rate, booming job market, outdoor opportunities, and relatively lower cost of living compared to other major western cities.

On the other hand, cities like Memphis, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Boston, and Miami are experiencing a significant exodus of residents, primarily due to their high cost of living and limited job opportunities. Memphis, despite being relatively affordable compared to cities like Los Angeles, has seen a population loss of 35,970 since 2010, driven by a lack of job opportunities and high crime levels.