The state curbed its population loss, adding an estimated 67,899 residents this year

Illinois ended nine years of population loss, adding an estimated 67,899 residents from July 2023-June 2024, according to data released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. Additionally, last year’s data was updated to reflect population growth when it initially showed a loss.  Illinois’ gain was driven mostly by international migration: 112,955 residents came to the state from other nations. According to the Illinois Policy Institute, 56,235 Illinoisans left for other states – the factor driving nearly a decade of population loss.  When comparing all 50 states’ 2024 domestic migration figures, only New York and California lost more residents to other states. Polling from the Illinois Policy Institute shows high taxes, crime and cost of living are among the lading concerns for residents interested in leaving the state. Low-tax states such as Florida and Texas and even neighboring states with a lower cost of living including Indiana, Missouri, and Wisconsin saw greater domestic population growth. To read more about Illinois’ domestic outmigration crisis, visit illin.is/2024populationgrowth. 
 
Photo Credit: Illinois Policy