The estimates over the past decade of Illinois’ exodus are drastically different from the final count. But, a researcher says Illinois’ population loss is still something to be concerned with. Population estimates for Illinois in 2019 were nearly 169,000 people fewer over the decade. While the state is one of just three that lost people across the country, Northern Illinois University’s Center for Governmental Studies Senior Research Specialist Sherrie Taylor said the final numbers weren’t as drastic.
Taylor notes data shows increased Asian American population in northeast Illinois and Hispanic populations all throughout the state. But, Illinois still lost population. Of 102 counties, 87 counties lost population. Alexander County on the border with Kentucky and Missouri shrank the fastest. If they’re not moving out of state, the trend is people moving from rural areas to bigger cities. With increased remote working because of COVID, Taylor said the trend could reverse.
A major driver for people moving, Taylor said, is jobs.
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