NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) – New York City’s population declined in 2025 after two years of growth, according to the Citizens’ Budget Commission.

PIX11 News’ Angelo Bavaro hit the streets to ask people why they think people are leaving the city.

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“It’s become pretty unaffordable, unfortunately,” one local told PIX11 News in Times Square. “I live outside the city for just that reason.”

Multiple people said the city needs to build more and focus on affordability programs, like universal child care.

One local told PIX11 News why she stays, despite the high cost of living.

“I like to embrace it. I feel like if I was placed somewhere else, I wouldn’t like it, more because I’m a city person,” one New York City resident said. “Friends, family, culture, history, that’s really what keeps me here.”

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