"Big Apple Exodus: NYC Sees 12,000 Population Decline in 2025. After years of post-pandemic growth, New York City has taken a surprising turn, with a significant decline in population marking a major shift in the city's demographic landscape. The 12,000-person drop, a reversal of the gains made during the pandemic, is a worrying trend that highlights a changing economic and social reality for the city. As the cost of living continues to rise and affordability becomes a major concern, many residents are opting to leave the city behind, sparking questions about the future of the iconic metropolis."


New York City’s population dropped by 12,000 in 2025 as an exodus across all income levels reversed post-pandemic gains.