In a sobering reflection of the current sociopolitical climate, nearly half of transgender adults in the United States have either relocated or are considering moving to areas they perceive as more affirming, according to a recent study by the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law.
The study, titled The Impact of Anti-Transgender Policy and Public Opinion on Travel and Relocation, surveyed 302 transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals in December 2024. It found that 48% of respondents had moved or were contemplating a move within the U.S. to escape increasingly hostile environments. Additionally, 45% expressed a desire to leave the country altogether.
A Climate of Fear and Uncertainty
The motivations behind these potential relocations are deeply rooted in concerns over safety, access to healthcare, and the overall social climate. The study highlights that:
- 59% of respondents were more concerned about being victims of crime.
- 70% were less likely to travel to states they viewed as less trans-affirming.
- 65% avoided parts of their own state they perceived as hostile.
These statistics underscore the pervasive anxiety within the transgender community, exacerbated by a wave of anti-transgender legislation and rhetoric.
Barriers to Relocation
Despite the desire to move, many transgender individuals face significant obstacles. The study notes that:
- 85% of those considering international relocation cited visa or immigration concerns.
- 64% were deterred by language barriers.
- 54% had limited exposure to life outside the U.S.
- 53% were concerned about accessing healthcare abroad.
Financial constraints also play a critical role. Over 40% of respondents reported annual incomes below $50,000, making the costs associated with moving—such as housing, employment transitions, and healthcare—daunting.
The Human Toll
The emotional and psychological impact of these decisions is profound. Contemplating relocation often brings feelings of grief and isolation, as individuals grapple with leaving behind communities, support systems, and familiar environments.
“The expression of a desire to move is a measure of the extreme pressure that transgender people are feeling about their, and their families’, safety and health,” the report states. “That pressure has mental health, physical health, and economic impacts on those who move and those who remain.”
Sanctuary States and Support Networks
In response to the growing hostility in certain regions, several states have enacted “shield laws” to protect transgender individuals and their families. States like California, Illinois, and Minnesota have passed legislation to prevent the extradition of individuals seeking or providing gender-affirming care from states where such care is criminalized .
These sanctuary states offer a semblance of safety and support, but the journey to relocate remains fraught with challenges.
RELATED: Transgender Moving Guide: Finding a Home in an Affirming City
The Bottom Line
The findings of this study serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive protections for transgender individuals. Advocacy groups, policymakers, and allies must work collaboratively to:
- Challenge and overturn discriminatory laws and policies.
- Provide financial and logistical support for those seeking to relocate.
- Foster inclusive communities that affirm and celebrate transgender identities.
For transgender individuals, their families, and allies, these efforts are not just about policy, they are about ensuring safety, dignity, and the fundamental right to live authentically.
Resources for Support
If you or someone you know is affected by these issues, organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign and the National Center for Transgender Equality offer resources and support networks. Additionally, local LGBTQ+ centers can provide guidance and assistance tailored to specific communities.
For more information and to access the full report, visit the Williams Institute’s website.
