Louisiana has been experiencing a steady net outmigration trend, with over 110,000 residents leaving the state for other parts of the U.S. since 2020. That’s according to the Council for a Better Louisiana. In 2023 alone, the state saw a net loss of over 29,000 people. CABL President Barry Erwin says this pattern highlights a broader trend in domestic migration within the U.S.
“Louisiana has been in a very precarious situation for the last several years where we have more people moving outside of the state than moving in.”
Erwin says high crime rates, concerns over the education system and limited job opportunities are primary reasons for why people are moving out of the Bayou State…
“…and the message that’s been coming out of our state more recently is not ben one of real opportunity.”
Governor Landry says he can turnaround the years of out migration if the legislature approves meaningful tax reform in a special session that begins next week. Erwin says a tax system that promotes job growth can lead to a better Louisiana..
“That doesn’t change things overnight, but if you can send a message that we are addressing issues that we know that we have, I think people feel better about coming and they feel better about staying.”
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