The Great Reshuffle Continues: Where Young Adults Are Planning Their Exit

2 hours ago7 min read

A new wave of potential migration is brewing among America's young adult population, revealing a stark divide in urban satisfaction. Groundbreaking data from Gensler's Research Institute, gathered from a survey of approximately 2,200 childless residents aged 18 to 34 across 27 major U.S. cities, highlights the metropolitan areas where the next generation is most likely to depart.Baltimore tops the list, with a striking 62% of its young adults reporting they are 'likely' or 'very likely' to move away. This sentiment is strongly echoed in Charlotte, North Carolina (58%), as well as in Miami and Detroit (both at 52%).Interviews with residents in these cities point to a common theme: the struggle with affordability and a perceived lack of long-term career trajectories. On the opposite end of the spectrum, cities like San Diego are successfully retaining their youth, with only 27% considering a move.Boston (28%) and Chicago (36%) also demonstrate stronger holding power. According to Sofia Song, global leader of cities research at Gensler's Research Institute, the key differentiator is not just a city's physical amenities or job market.The ultimate deciding factor is an emotional one—a resident's sense of belonging, connection, and pride in their community. This emotional calculus is what turns a city from a temporary landing spot into a permanent home.As one Charlotte professional noted, 'My life is here, but my future feels like it might be elsewhere. ' For civic leaders in cities facing a potential brain drain, the mandate is clear: the challenge extends beyond economics and infrastructure to the more difficult task of cultivating a shared identity and a sense of investment among their youngest citizens.

#lead focus news

#urban migration

#young adults

#affordability

#job opportunities

#city survey

#Gensler