Kelsea Ballerini opens up about NYC move following chase stokes split

Kelsea Ballerini has embraced a fresh chapter in New York City following her breakup with Chase Stokes, but she said the move isn’t permanent.

The 32-year-old country star recently shared insight into her decision to relocate, revealing that the shift was driven by a long-held personal goal rather than solely her split. 

Ballerini moved to New York City just two months after ending her three-year relationship with Stokes in September 2025.

Speaking with Knox News during an evening with the Grand Ole Opry at Carnegie Hall, Ballerini reflected on her connection to the city. 

“Ever since I was a little kid… I always promised myself that I would do a season or chapter of life in the city,” she told the audience. “And that season and chapter is right now.”

However, the singer clarified that her stay in New York is temporary. “I’m not permanently moving,” she said in a recent interview, adding that she plans to remain in the city through the summer.

For now, Ballerini is focused on rediscovery and independence. “I feel this resurgence of energy just doing stuff for myself,” she shared, describing her time in the city as both refreshing and exciting.

The move comes weeks after reports confirmed her breakup with Stokes, whom she began dating in early 2023. 

The couple made their public debut at the CMT Awards later that year before parting ways in September 2025.