Survey Reveals Quarter of Young Professionals in Greater Boston Plan to Leave in 5 Years

A recent survey conducted by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Foundation and its City Awake program revealed that a significant 25% of young professionals residing in Greater Boston are contemplating leaving the region within the next five years. The survey, which targeted individuals aged 20 to 30 in Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, and Suffolk counties, highlighted concerns regarding career prospects and housing affordability.

The findings indicated that while the majority of young adults in Boston expressed general satisfaction with their daily lives in the region, a notable proportion, deemed ‘alarming’ by the Chamber Foundation, expressed intentions to relocate for better opportunities.

The survey, carried out on 823 young adults in November and December, showcased that 27% were somewhat likely to stay, while 38% were highly inclined to remain in Greater Boston. Conversely, 25% of respondents expressed plans to seek opportunities elsewhere, with 16% indicating they were somewhat likely to leave and 9% very likely to do so.

Among the factors influencing the decision to leave, respondents cited affordable housing, job availability, home ownership options, public transportation, proximity to family, and child care affordability as significant considerations.

Concerns regarding the lack of power to effect change in issues such as affordable housing, job availability, and wages in state or federal government were also highlighted by more than half of the survey participants.

Efforts to address these concerns were noted, with Gov. Maura Healey proposing a $4.1 billion housing bond bill and strategies to attract and retain young workers. However, legislative action on these proposals from House and Senate Democrats remains pending.

In light of the survey results, highlighting the potential exodus of young professionals from Greater Boston, it is evident that transformative policies and initiatives need to be implemented to retain talent and ensure a thriving workforce in the region.

On a lighter note, Samuel Adams Brewery in Boston was recognized for offering one of the best brewery tours in the nation by USA Today, with other notable mentions going to Tröegs Independent Brewing in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and the beer scene in Biddeford, Maine.