Where Do Trans Americans Go When Home Is No Longer Safe?

Trans Collective Migration Map Data

The Trans Collective Migration map was created using anonymous data submitted via a Google Form. This dataset represents 100 individuals. Red states are states that voted Republican, and blue states are states that voted Democratic in the 2024 presidential election. 38 of 100 people moved abroad.

Trans People in Blue States are Moving Abroad

Many blue states have existing protections for trans people. Despite these protections, many trans Americans have left the country.

Washington and California topped the list for blue states that trans people migrated from, despite scoring high on gender identity protections on the Movement Advanced Project LGBTQ+ Equality scorecard. Every individual, except one, who left Washington and California, moved abroad.

Overall, 81% of trans people who left blue states moved abroad, while 19% moved within the United States. The majority of people moving in the U.S. moved to another blue state. Only 3 people moved from a blue state to a red state.

Trans People in Red States are Moving to Blue States

Texas topped the list for states most trans people migrated from. It scored low on the LGBTQ+ Equality scorecard, but not the lowest score, which went to Tennessee.

However, Texas made headlines all year with anti-trans legislation. It introduced 97 anti-LGBTQ+ bills in 2025, by far the most of any state. The next closest state was Missouri with 38. Out of the 97 bills introduced, 88 were defeated.

6 people moved from one red state to another. However, they were typically leaving red states for purple states with less anti-trans legislation. Moves included: North Carolina to Michigan, Louisiana to Pennsylvania, Texas to Arizona, Tennessee to Michigan, Louisiana to North Carolina, and Texas to Nevada.

Cost of Living Likely a Factor

Minnesota topped the list of states migrated to. It has a good LGBTQ+ Equality Score, but not the highest. However, it has a lower cost of living compared to most blue states.

Trans Collective encompasses a nationwide profile series highlighting trans people in all 50 states, a migration map illustrating where trans individuals are relocating, and the continuing HelpDesk series.

Respondents have moved within the last year due to the political environment in their state and the country.