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Fastest Shrinking City in Every State

Sulphur, Louisiana -5.1%

Sulphur, Louisiana -5.1%

Recent estimates from the U.S. Census found that the Sulphur City area has lost quite a number of residents. Since 2020, it lost 5.1% of its total population. As the population quickly drops, you'd hope officials would work harder to maintain their population, but that's not the case. 

In 2020, the population was 21,1758 and is now just 20,641 as of 2021. This Louisiana city did not experience the 0.4% growth that tiny communities in the deep south experienced on average. You would think it woud be because they're moving to larger cities in state, but no, most major cities in Louisiana saw a population drop.

Aberdeen, Idaho -11.94%

Aberdeen, Idaho -11.94%

Aberdeen, Idaho was the fastest shrinking city in 2020 with a net population loss of over 11%. In 2010 their population was 1,994. When it came to te 2020 census they had lost over 200 people bringing their total to 1,756. The following year had a surprise for the cities of the potato nation though.

Nearly every city in this famed state had a net population increase, or at the very least no loss in citizens within cities of this state. Pocatello alone has seen a 4.7% increase over the past 10 years. In 2010, the population number was at 90,656 and in 2020 that number increased to 94,896.

Milton, Vermont -0.3%

Milton, Vermont -0.3%

Milton, Vermont had a population of around 10,714 in 2020. In just one year, that number dropped to 10,685. Many cities in this region have seen a drop in population. People who live outside the city, but work there, are known to increase the population of Montpelier, Vermont, throughout the day. People may be leaving Vermont because more businesses are deciding to operate remotely.

The Burlington-South Burlington, Vermont area is currently home to a population of about 20,292 people. Those were the numbers in 2020 at least. In 2010, the population was at 17,904 which shows a significant growth in this region. Burlington is the most populous city in the state, and you would expect it to grow more exponentially.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin -1.2%

Milwaukee, Wisconsin -1.2%

Even though Wisconsin is generally increasing in size, the Milwaukee area is declining only at a rate of 1.2%. Since 2010, the area has gained only 20 thousand residents. While this may seem like a lot, considering that there were more in 1960, the number is not very high.

In 1960, the population of Milwaukee itself sat at 741,324, but by 2020 they had just 576,301 residents. In 2021, that number wass as low as 569,330. The plan is to bring more tech jobs into the city to keep up with other large cities like Chicago, Madison, and Indianapolis. 

(Image via Wikipedia)

Portland, Oregon -1.7%

Portland, Oregon -1.7%

This coffee city had a population of 652,388 people in the year 2020. In just one year, they lost over 11 thousand citizens, bringing their population total down to 641, 162. Now, while it might surprise some of us, it wouldn't surprise others. Even now, residents of their own region find the city to still be charming. 

The state's largest city is recognized for having a vast amount of green space, including breathtaking mountaintops, parks, and woods. While Portland and other cities in this fine state did have some major downticks in popultaion other areas of the state did see growth. Bend alone saw a 2.5% increase in population.

Westminster, Colorado -1.5%

Westminster, Colorado -1.5%

Westminster boasts beautiful scenery, a low crime rate, and easy access to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the area, such as state and national parks, historical and cultural institutions, and some of North America's best skiing. Despite all the wonderful things Westminster has to offer. It has still seen a rapid decline in population, unfortunately. 

In 2020, this beautiful city had a population of 116,304 people. They lost two thousand of them over one year alone, though, bringing their total in 2021 to 114,561 people living within its city limits. Many cities in Colorado have seen a population decline. Perhaps it's the cold weather keeping people away, or perhaps not. Only time will tell.

Birmingham, Alabama -1.3%

Birmingham, Alabama -1.3%

Alabama is renowned for both being the home of the civil rights movement and its warm southern hospitality. Reguardless, the Birmingham, Alabama area has had a 1.3% decline in its population over the past year. The metropolitan statistical area is generally the most populated in Northwest Alabama, but the numbers are dropping to be sure.

 

The population of Birmingham, Alabama was 200,133 in the year 2020, then in 2021, the population dropped to well below that at 197,575 – a difference of over 2,000. People just aren’t flocking to this area it seems. A study found that finding a job was the main factor driving people out of this region.

Dover, Delaware -1.4%

Dover, Delaware -1.4%

Dover, Delaware is the second-largest city in Delaware. Out of the major cities in the state, however, it has seen a massive decrease in population over the past few years. In 2020, the population of Dover was at 39,554 and in 2021 it was 38,992. That's 1.4% of the populatin lost in just one year.

This beautiful city can be found on the Delaware River coastal plain along the St. Jones River. Dover in Kent, England, is the name William Penn gave to the city. This quaint little town is well recognized for more than just serving as the state's capital. Additionally, it has hosted significant local, state, and federal events, including the 1787 ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

West Wendover, Nevada -0.4%

West Wendover, Nevada -0.4%

West Wendover Nevada has had a population decline of about 0.4% from 2020 to 2021. West Wendover had a population of 4,511 in 2020 and in 2021 it had a population of 4,492. These numbers show a population decline lower than every other city in the great state, but certainly not a record low.

West Wendover, Nevada is one of the smallest of the 366 metropolitan statistical areas where this population data comes from. West Wendover, 120 miles to the east of Reno, is a well-liked overnight stop with an array of casino-resorts, buffets, steakhouses, and gaming options. It also offers a great basecamp for exploring the expansive Bonneville Salt Flats.

Williston, North Dakota -6.7%

Williston, North Dakota -6.7%

The oil industry, agriculture, and tourism are the cornerstones of Williston's economy. More than 200 oil servicing companies call it home. Williston is home to several of the top 10 oil service firms in the world. In 2020, the population was recorded as 29,281, and in 2021 that number decreased to 27,332. 

Williams County is where Williston is situated. Population decreases in oil-producing counties are a result of people leaving these areas because they have lost their jobs or have seen their opportunities decrease. Since it is quite easy to move to a location with fewer taxes, people flee places where there are income redistribution laws and taxes, such as Williston.

Sumter, South Carolina -0.8%

Sumter, South Carolina -0.8%

Sumter, South Carolina has decreased by .08% in the last few years. The population was at 43,342 in 2020 before it dwindled down to 42,976 in 2021. This is a pretty significant drop, but the numbers have gone up and down since 1990, so it may not be permanent. 

Sumter was a region once inhabited by the Creek Indians, but the 1830 Indian Removal Act forcibly moved them from the area. Nelson Tift was the first European settler to claim lands in the region in 1836, making him the founder. The biotech industry, textiles, healthcare, agriculture, retail establishments, and Shaw Air Force Base are all well-known in Sumter, an economic hub in the east central region of South Carolina.

Alexandria, Virginia -2.8%

Alexandria, Virginia -2.8%

Living in Alexandria is a little costly. Living there is among the most expensive options in Virginia. The biggest cost there is by far housing. George Washington was born and raised in Alexandria, which is well recognized for its extensive colonial past. Additionally, it features places that the founders of the United States visited frequently.

These include places like Christ Church and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum. Alexandria has also seen some population decline. There were 159,097 residents within the bounds of this lovely city in 2020. Only 154,706 people were still residing in this wonderful city by 2021, a mere one year later.

Gillette, Wyoming -1.7%

Gillette, Wyoming -1.7%

Gillette, Wyoming saw a population decline of 1.7% in the last year. For 2020, the population was at 33,458, while in 2021, the population was 32,884. Considering the city’s trends, we may see an increase in 2030, but only time will tell. There's a lot of time between then and now. 

The city of Gillette is situated in the northeastern region of Wyoming. The city, which is also a large producer of oil and natural gas, produces close to 35 percent of the nation's coal. As a result, Gillette calls itself the "Energy Capital" of the country. This region also has an extensive history of cowboy culture. 

North Platte, Nebraska -1.3%

North Platte, Nebraska -1.3%

There has been a 1.3% reduction in population in North Platte, Nebraska. The population was 23,276 according to the 2020 census. There were 22,978 people living there in 2021, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In addition to being the home of William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody it is also home to two other famous names.

The North Platte Canteen is well known globally, and North Platte is most famous for the Union Pacific's Bailey Yard. It is the largest railroad classification yard in the world. The fact that North Platte is situated in the wide, level Platte River Valley it attracted all three of these to the town.

Asheville, North Carolina -0.4%

Asheville, North Carolina -0.4%

The population of Asheville, North Carolina, has lately shrunk by 0.4%. In 2020, there were 94,406 people living there, and in 2021, there were 94,067 people in residing in the city limits. Given the region's high population density, these figures indicate a rather large decline, which might indicate something else.

This vibrant mountain city is home to a hip and eclectic downtown, more than 30 art galleries in the same area alone, a thriving live music scene, a burgeoning culinary scene, and, of course, the breathtaking Appalachian Mountain scenery. Unfortunately, there is also little income growth and skyrocketing property prices. As a result, many locals seek for fresh opportunities to start new lives elsewhere.

Nashua, New Hampshire -0.1%

Nashua, New Hampshire -0.1%

Beautiful parks, mighty rivers, clear lakes, vast forests, a wide variety of wildlife, a vibrant nightlife, several historic buildings, beautiful architecture, fantastic amusement parks, and much more can be found in Nashua. Despite all this, the amazing city has still seen a population delince, unlike other cities in this state.

Nashua had a population of about 91,221 in the year 2020. Approximately one year later that number dropped to 91,124 people.  That's .1% of the population or nearly 100 people that decided to pack their bags and find a new home outside the fabulous city in New England. 

Jackson, Mississippi -2%

Jackson, Mississippi -2%

Overall, Mississippi’s population is declining. When asked, one resident said that there was a lack of jobs and entertainment. The unemployment rate was around 8% as of 2022, which is much more than the national average of 3.7%.  This high difference may be enough to keep residents out of Jackson.

Jackson, Mississippi had a population of about 173,703 in 2010. Then, in 2020, the population decreased to 152,846 - but again, this is a span of 10 years, meaning that Jackson may be facing a bigger decline as time goes on. In 2021 this mighty Mississippi city had but 149,761 residents. 

Saint Louis, Missouri -2.4%

Saint Louis, Missouri -2.4%

With its fiercely independent frontier-town roots and a layer of Midwest modesty, St. Louis is a vibrant metropolis in the American Midwest. Often referred to as the "Gateway to the West," this colorful city is well-known for the iconic Gateway Arch, its fiercely devoted sports fans, and its vibrant blues music scene.

This gateway though has seen a rapid decline in population over the last few years. Saint Louis, Missouri was home to 300,528 people in 2020. By the year 2021 a mere 293,310 people called Saint Louis, Missouri home. That's a whopping 2.4% of its population that left this fine city.

Nogales, Arizona -5.1%

Nogales, Arizona -5.1%

Arizona's Santa Cruz County has the city of Nogales. Nogales is a significant port for the import of goods from Mexico and is situated directly on the US-Mexico border. In addition, this city is well-known for a number of tourist destinations, including the Mission Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi and the Pimeria Alta Historical Society Museum.

Arizona overall is gaining residents each year at a rate of 1.4% each year. Nogales however, has lost nearly 5% of it's total residents as of late. In 2020 this city's population was 20,837. Just one year later that number dropped to 19,770 living within the city limits.

Kansas City, Kansas -1.1%

Kansas City, Kansas -1.1%

At the boundary of Kansas and Missouri, Kansas City shines. It is located on the eastern end of the great state. They have casinos, and NASCAR races are held at the Kansas Speedway, every year. Playground, walkways, and boat rentals are all available in the sizable Wyandotte County Lake Park.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition camped in 1804 at the confluence of the Kansas and Missouri rivers, and Kaw Point Park, which overlooks the city skyline, marks the location. This lovely city has lost over 1% of its population. In 2020, it had 156,241 residents. A year later, in 2021, there were only 154,545 people living there.

Federal Way, Washington -2%

Federal Way, Washington -2%

One of the most recent towns to be established in the county, Federal Way had around 101,000 residents in 2020. The fifth-largest city in King County and the tenth-largest city in the state of Washington respectively is this city, Federal Way, Washington. Alas, they lost two percent of their population by 2021.

A study found only about99,037 were left in this city the following year. It was discovered that the lack of work in the area is largely to blame for this. In fact, the lack of good jobs causes almost 10,000 individuals daily to leave the city in search of employment, which results in a 10% drop in daytime population. Ouch!

East Providence, Rhode Island -0.5%

East Providence, Rhode Island -0.5%

Rhode Island is generally safe state, despite having a history of organized crime. East Providence isn’t too terrible, either, when you look at the statistics. The city has a crime rate of 28 per 1,000 people. Which isn't terrible compared to the rest of the nation, but is definitely worse than the rest of Rhode Island. 

Perhaps this is why we're seeing a drop in population there. East Providence, Rhode Island lost nearly 0.5% of it's population in the last year. In 2020 this city had a booming 47,150residents. Alas, by 2021, and post pandemic it had just 46,929 residets. That's over 200 people that moved out.

Enid, Oklahoma -1.1%

Enid, Oklahoma -1.1%

Enid, Oklahoma, home of Farmland and Johnston Grain Company, boasts the third-largest grain storage facility in the world. The cattle industry has developed into a very profitable industry as a result of the rich soil in Garfield County, which has historically produced great wheat yields. Alas, this fine city is also losing residents.

This city is the 846th largest city in the United States (wow) and the 9th largest city in Oklahoma with a 2020 population of 51,149. Enid's population has declined according to the 2021 census, when it decreased by 1.1%, or approximately 600 people, and is currently expecting to see this carry over in the following years.

Aberdeen, South Dakota -0.4%

Aberdeen, South Dakota -0.4%

For its picturesque landscape and  rolling hills, Aberdeen, South Dakota, is well-known. There are numerous lovely parks in the city, as well as it's famous Northern State University. The largest fish in South Dakota can be found in a number of outstanding fishing spots spread out around the beautiful state.

Aberdeen, South Dakota too has lost some of its population. In 2020, this fine city had 28,442 people living with it's borders. By the year 2021, just one year later, .04% of the population had left - leaving only 28,324 residents to call this lovely city their home.

 

Sidney, Montana -2.1%

Sidney, Montana -2.1%

Sidney, which located on the Yellowstone River, serves as the region's commercial hub. The two primary businesses are oil and agriculture, and the principal crops there are cereals, sugar beets, corn, beans, and hay. For numerous warm-water species, notably the enormous prehistoric paddlefish, the Sidney region provides good fishing opportunities.

A portion of the population of Sidney, Montana, has also decreased. Some 6,331 people called this lovely city's boundaries home in 2020. Only 6,197 people were left to call this magnificent city their home in 2021, just one year later, when 2.1% of the population had departed.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania -1.5%

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania -1.5%

The first World Heritage City in the nation and the location of our Founding Fathers' meetings, discussions, and debates that resulted in the formation of the United States is Philadelphia. Lucky for tourists in the twenty-first century, so much of Philadelphia's past has been nicely preserved for their viewing pleasure.

In the census of 2021, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, suffered significantly though. Don't be fooled by the seemingly insignificant 1.5% population loss; for a city like Philadelphia, that's a sizable number of individuals choosing to live somewhere else. As the year comes to an end, let's hope that the heritage city has better news in store for us in the next year.

Northship, Indiana -0.7%

Northship, Indiana -0.7%

Indiana has produced the fifth-highest number of professional basketball players per capita of any state, thanks to its love of the game and its ability to produce players like Larry Bird and Louie Dampier. Indiana also leads the US in terms of job growth in the manufacturing sector and has the second-largest automotive industry in the country.

As such, this state has seen a 0.3% increase in residents. Northship, Indiana however, has not shared in that gain. Northship Indiana, experienced a population decline. Here it was by 0.7% of the residency according to 2021 census data. This decline was to be expected considering the state of affairs, their loss consists of a little over 1,100 enough to be number one city in this state on decline.

Pembroke Pines, Florida -0.9%

Pembroke Pines, Florida -0.9%

It is the 161st largest city in the United States and the 11th largest city in Florida, with 170,981 people as of 2020. This population has generally grown year by year at a rate of 0.95% each year. However, the 2021 data showed us that this city in fact shrunk by .9%.

In the city borders of Pembroke Pines, Florida, there were 169,391 inhabitants as of 2021. Most people living here are married couples. Young, single renters are rare, which speaks volumes. Given the history of the city, the figure of decreasing population might change in the coming years. Only time will tell.

Des Moines, Iowa -0.8%

Des Moines, Iowa -0.8%

A significant financial services and publishing business base may be found in Des Moines, a hub of the US insurance industry. The city was listed as the third-largest "insurance capital" of the globe and described as the "number one place for U.S. insurance companies" in a Business Wire story.

The population of Des Moines, Iowa, has decreased somewhat as well. In 2020, this fine city had 213,699 people living with its borders. Only 212,031 people were still residing in this magnificent city in 2021, just one year after 0.8% of the population had left for greener pastures.

Brooklyn Park, Minnesota -2.2%

Brooklyn Park, Minnesota -2.2%

In Brooklyn Park, which is hidden along the Mississippi River, you can find about 2,000 acres of parkland, two golf courses, and 120 miles of hiking trails. This area also houses a community center with a gym, two ice rinks for hockey, conference rooms, racquetball courts, and a senior center.

Brooklyn Park is in Hennepin County and has lost over 2% of their total population over the last few years. In 2020, the population of this city was 86,411 residents strong. Alas, by 2021 that number had dropped to 84,526 living within the city limits. That's almost 2000 people saying "adios" to this place in one year alone.

Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee -1.5%

Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee -1.5%

Nashville is the birthplace of both bluegrass and country music. It also has a robost R&B,  pop, and rock scene. Visitors swarm the city all year long to see Music Row's renowned recording studios and take in live performances at the honky-tonks on Broadway. Still yet, this seemingly thriving city has an ever declinging population.

This fine city had a whopping 689,248 residents in the year 2020. The following summer that number dropped to  678,851. It could be because of the staggering housing prices or the rising unemployment, but year 2021 saw over one and a half percent of the city's population leave this countryside for a new life elsewhere.

Lewiston, Maine -0.4%

Lewiston, Maine -0.4%

Lewiston is well-known for its varied restaurants, recreational access to the Androscoggin River, walking trails, parks, and historical landmarks, in addition to a number of annual festivals like the Liberty Festival, Emerge Film Festival, Great Falls Balloon Festival, Greek Festival, World Refugee Day Festival, and the awesome yearly Brew Fest.

The population has decreased somewhat in Lewiston, Maine as well. Some 36,746 individuals called this lovely city's borders home in 2020. Only 36,617 people were left to call this beautiful city their home in 2021, just one year later, when 0.4% of the population had departed for a new life.

Sandy Springs, Georgia -0.9%

Sandy Springs, Georgia -0.9%

Many larger corporations, like UPS, Cox Communications, and Mercedes-Benz USA, have their corporate offices in Sandy Springs, which is a busy commercial area.  As a result, there will be a lot of fantastic jobs available and a bustling downtown in the coming years. Too bad, it's a little bit late.

Sandy Springs, Georgia has seen a decline in population. 108,172 individuals called this sunny city's borders home in the year 2020. Only 107,180 people were still residing in this fine city in 2021, just one year later, after 0.9% of the population had left, due to unemployment rates, and the housing market.

Boston, Massachusetts -2.9%

Boston, Massachusetts -2.9%

When you delve a little deeper, you'll discover a surprising amount of things that make Boston one of the key cities in America—and the entire globe. Boston is most known for its delicious baked beans, Fenway Park, The Boston Marathon, and of course for the infamous bar from Cheers (the TV show).

Alas, Massachusetts overall is bleading residents at a rate of -0.5% each year. Boston alone has lost nearly 3% of it's total residents as of late. In 2020 this city's population was a staggering 674,272. Just one year later that number dropped to 654,776 living within the city limits.

Laurel, Maryland -1.6%

Laurel, Maryland -1.6%

Prince George's County's first national bank, public high school, and public library are all located in the city of Laurel. The oldest continually running volunteer fire department in Prince George's County was established in Laurel in the wake of a fire that completely destroyed the city's downtown back in 1899.

Maryland overall is gaining residents each year at a rate of 1% each year. Laurel, Maryland however, has lost nearly 1.6% of it's total residents as of late. In 2020 this city's population was 29,959. Just one year later that number dropped to 29,490 living within the city limits.

Hartford, Connecticut -1.3%

Hartford, Connecticut -1.3%

It's due to the presence of multiple insurance company headquarters, the area's primary industry, Hartford is often known as the "Insurance Capital of the World." This city enjoys high standing as a global metropolis. Healthcare, education, and services are a few additional well-known industries in this small state's city.

Hartford, Connecticut too has lost some of its population. In 2020 this fine city had 120,957 people living with its borders. By the year 2021, just one year later, 1.3% of the population had left - leaving only 120,576 residents to call this lovely city their home.

Unalaska, Alaska -2.5%

Unalaska, Alaska -2.5%

The Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Ascension of Christ, Alaska's most notable landmark, was built by Russia and finished in 1896 and is the oldest church still in existence in the country built in the cruciform style. The chapel is a popular among photographers since it overlooks the bay.

Unalaska, which stretches for more than 211 miles, has a population density of 41 persons per square mile. With a 2.5 percent loss from 4,113 in just one year from 2020, this small town of now 4,009 in 2021 experienced the biggest decline out of the entire state of Alaska.

Jersey City, New Jersey -2.7%

Jersey City, New Jersey -2.7%

The most well-known features of Jersey City are likely its historical attractions. Despite the fact that Jersey City completely encircles the Statue of Liberty, the Ellis Island Immigration Station is part of Liberty Island National Park, which is situated there. Legally it belongs to this city. For face value though, we say it's New York.

Jersey City, New Jersey, population droped from 291,927 in the year 2020 to 283,927 in the year 2021, and marked a significant decline, significant enought to be the largest per percent decline in the state adding up to nearly 8000, residents leaving -2.7% of its overall inhabitanats. 

Garland, Texas -1.4%

Garland, Texas -1.4%

With more than 300 firms, Garland is currently one of the biggest manufacturing hubs in the state of Texas. The second half of the 20th century cemented Garland's status as a major cultural hub in North Texas. Unfortunately, it also has an unemployment rate of over 6% as of 2022.

Garland, Texas, which saw a 1.4% loss in population, tops the list for all of Texas. Between 2020 and 2021, this huge manufacturing city was able to shed roughly 3,400 residents. In the year 2020, the city had a population of 245,478. In the year 2021, it had only 242,035 living within the city limits.

Sandy, Utah -2%

Sandy, Utah -2%

The Mountain America Exposition Center, the Jordan Commons entertainment, office, and dining complex, and the Shops at South Town shopping center are all  located in Sandy.  Sandy is a mining town that has seen ups and downs with the flows of governmet bureaucracy. The moves to green enegry is forcing people to look for work elsewhere in this town.

This city is the 7th largest city in Utah, with a 2020 population of 97,039 people. Sandy's population has shrunk by 2% over the last few year. It is currently home to 95,050 residents. Nearly 2000 people left in 2021, resulting in a net drop in population, despite expansion efforts. Oof.

Henderson, Kentucky -0.8%

Henderson, Kentucky -0.8%

Henderson is renowned for having a long history with trains. Between 1902 and 1971, a lot of well-known and powerful persons traveled through Henderson's Union Station. Some of them were Dwight Eisenhower, Harry Truman, and Franklin Roosevelt. Today, you can observe as commuter trains pass through Henderson's downtown roughly every 30 minutes.

Henderson's population has declined by -0.8% from the most recent census, which showed a population of 27,931, in 2020, and is currently falling at a pace of -0.28% annually. Henderson's population density per square mile is 1,726 and it spans across 18 miles. Last year they lost just over 200 residents.

San Francisco, California -6.7%

San Francisco, California -6.7%

San Francisco is well-known for the Golden Gate Bridge, its narrow streets, Alcatraz, and - you got it, dude! - Full House. There are some fairly fascinating historical facts about the thirteenth-largest city in the United States. In San Francisco alone, the tech scene is sizable and thriving. Although it roughly corresponds to the geographic boundaries, it isn't recognized as part of Silicon Valley.

From April 2020 to July 2021, the city lost 6.7% of its population, going from 870,014 to 815,201 residents — the lowest number since 2010. Among those age 25 to 29 who identified as female, white and non-Hispanic, the population dropped by a whopping, and quite staggering 26%.

Dearborn, Michigan -1.1%

Dearborn, Michigan -1.1%

While Dearborn is best known for housing the global headquarters of the reknown American Ford Motor Company, it also serves as an important industrial hub for the processing of steel and is home to a number of well-known national and international businesses, most notably the AK Steel Dearborn Works complex.

According to Census Bureau data, Michigan's population declined annually between 2005 and 2010, only to start growing once more in 2011. According to census data, between 2011 and 2020, the population grew steadily. The greatest percentage decline in 2021, 1.1%, or almost 1300 persons, was in (dear) Dearborn, Michigan.

New York, New York -3.5%

New York, New York -3.5%

The tall skyscrapers, well-known neighborhoods, and unending activity of New York are famous. In the Big Apple, there are many things to discover, such as baseball, pizza, Times Square, and yellow cabs. The Thousand Island and Finger Lake districts are among New York's prominent natural areas. Though it has so much going on, this big city too is losing residents.

The census figures show that the New York metro area lost the most people overall, 3.5%, in this region of the states. Greater than 385,000 people have left the cities of New York, Newark, and Jersey City combined, which is nearly twice as many as have left the cities of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Anaheim together.

Cleveland, Ohio -1.1%

Cleveland, Ohio -1.1%

It is because of its advantageous location halfway between the banks of the river and the shore of Lake Erie, it is regarded as a manufacturing centre. Major landmarks like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, and Cleveland Orchestra are also located in this area.

Cleveland's population has been declining since the 1950s. Thirty-two other U.S. cities are now larger than Cleveland, once the fifth largest city in America, though the pace of loss slowed considerably in the 1990s. To date the population drop from 2020-2021 equals to about 1.1% of the cities population.

Hobbs, New Mexico -2.1%

Hobbs, New Mexico -2.1%

With its clear sky panoramas and breathtaking sunsets, the Hobbs area epitomizes the best of the high desert. A completely varied heritage can be seen in the area, which is home to Hispanic culture, farming customs, and cowboy folklore. Hobbs really does seem to have something for everyone to enjoy. 

Hobbs, New Mexico experienced record growth over the past decade with a population boom of almost 20%. That silver lining ended in the year 2021 when their residency declined by just over 2%. Marking a short stop to their self proclaimed "magic number" of 50.000 people. Maybe next year Hobbs!

South Charleston, West Virginia -1.6%

South Charleston, West Virginia -1.6%

Charleston, the state capital of West Virginia, is a stunning riverfront city with a ton of exciting things to see and do. Consider taking a weekend trip to experience the State Capitol's history, shop at the Capitol Market outside, and spend the afternoon at the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences. Perhaps that'll help them out!

Since the previous year, South Charleston, West Virginia's total population has decreased by 1.6%. Despite the fact that 218 people make up the total lost—which may seem like a lot—this area saw the biggest decline in population in the state. The fact that the city is now on the map for this isn't all negative news. It just means more for those left!

Urban Honolulu CDP, Hawaii -1.2%

Urban Honolulu CDP, Hawaii -1.2%

Beautiful beaches in Hawaii, some of which have unusual colors, are well-known round the world. There are many white-sand beaches in Hawaii, but there are also stretches of coastline with green, red, pink, and even black sand. If you want to go on hikes, bike, kayak, sail, swim, or just unwind on the beach, Hawaii is the state for you.

Hard to imagine that so many people could leave the stunning views and beaches, but this area of Honolulu, Hawaii, had a population loss of about 4,300 people after the year 2020. 1.2% of the city's population had departed by 2021, resulting in Hawaii's greatest resident decline that year, from 349,800 to 345,510.

Thorntonship, Illinois -1.9%

Thorntonship, Illinois -1.9%

Numerous locations in this city have names derived from the name of the town, including the three high schools. This city is one of the many townships in Cook County, Illinois. It was established in 1850, and Chicago is just a hop, skip, and a jump away via rail line.

Thorntonship lost what makes up 1.9% of this city's population and tops the list for the state of Illinois with a population loss of just shy of 3000. This population decline took place in just one year. Nearly 2% of the population were dispersed among the surrounding areas due to unemployment and rising housing prices.

Pine Bluff, Arkansas -1.7%

Pine Bluff, Arkansas -1.7%

Pine Bluff is known for being one of the lower-income areas in Arkansas, and citizens have had enough of it. The residents have been leaving the town for the last couple of decades. In 2010, the population was 48,952, but the 2020 estimate is 40,951. This may come as a shock for many.

Pine Bluff had reached its population peak of 57,400 in 1970 but saw a decline in 1980. By 1990, the population went back up to 57,100 before gradually declining. As of 2021 that number was 40,244 residents in the city limits. It is now one of the fastest shrinking cities in the United States.  

(Image via Wikipedia)