Bob Jordan

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“People are living longer and need their retirement savings to last beyond what previous generations expected,’’ said Krista Jenkins, director of PublicMind Poll and professor of political science at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Affordability and taxes were the most common reasons provided for leaving the state; the desire for a different or warmer climate ranked next

Of those who want to leave, 57 percent said it’s due to the state’s high cost of living, including taxes

TRENTON – For New Jersey’s future retirees hoping to stretch their savings, moving out of the state has become an appealing option.

A new Fairleigh Dickinson PublicMind Poll of non-retirees found that only a third intend to remain in New Jersey when they stop working.

“People are living longer and need their retirement savings to last beyond what previous generations expected,’’ said Krista Jenkins, director of PublicMind and professor of political science at Fairleigh Dickinson University. “New Jersey isn’t looking too affordable these days.’’

The poll released Monday shows that 32 percent intend to remain in New Jersey when they retire, and 52 percent intending to move elsewhere.

Affordability and taxes were the most common reasons provided for leaving the state. The desire for a different or warmer climate ranked next.

Of those who want to leave, 57 percent said it’s due to the state’s high cost of living, including taxes. And, from that group, the most popular goal is to land in a southern state, with 40 percent giving that answer. Thirteen percent say they want to move abroad.

“In this environment, it’s hard to beat a warmer climate and lower taxes, especially after the winter we just had and sluggish economic growth,’’ Jenkins said. “Finding a way to deal with New Jersey’s high property taxes would go a long way toward convincing many to stick around in their golden years.”

Bob Jordan 609-984-4343, bjordan@app.com