Kelsea Ballerini is embracing a new chapter — just don’t call it permanent.
The country superstar recently revealed she’s been spending time in New York City, something she’s dreamed about since she was a kid.
But while she’s loving life in the Big Apple, she says this move isn’t forever.
A Dream She Finally Followed
Ballerini first shared the news during “An Evening with the Grand Ole Opry” at Carnegie Hall on March 20, telling the crowd she had officially made the move from Tennessee to New York City.
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“Ever since I was a little kid and I got here for the first time, I always promised myself that I would do a season or chapter of life in the city,” she said. “And that season and chapter is right now.”
NYC for Now
Not long after, Ballerini made it clear that her time in New York City is limited.
“I’m not permanently moving,” she told E! News at the 2026 Fashion Trust U.S. Awards in Los Angeles on April 7. “I’m just there through the summer, and I’m loving it so much.”
For now, it’s simply a change of pace — and one she seems to be fully enjoying.
A Season of Change
The move comes during a period of transition in Ballerini’s personal life.
Earlier this year, reports confirmed she and actor Chase Stokes had split after first going public with their relationship in 2023. The two had previously been living together.
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In the weeks following the breakup, the “Miss Me More” singer shared a reflective message on social media about growth and moving forward.
“This year asked you to shed layers you didn’t even realize you were still carrying,” the post read. “But look at you. You’re still here. Wiser. Stronger.”
What Comes Next
For now, Ballerini is leaning into the moment.
Whether it’s a temporary stay or something that evolves into more, she’s treating her time in New York as a chapter — not a final destination.
Kelsea Balerini opened up her divorce diary in February 2023 with her Rolling Up the Welcome Mat EP, a project that follows the stages of a breakup — from grief and loneliness to anger to acceptance — in chronological order. Here are eight of the most revealing lyrics from the project.
Gallery Credit: Carena Liptak