Media release
Minnesota’s strong population growth continues into 2001

Minnesota's population on July 1, 2001, was 4,972,294, an increase of 52,800 people since April 1, 2000. Minnesota’s rate of growth since Census 2000 is 1.1 percent, slightly slower than the national rate of 1.2 percent. Minnesota remains one of the fastest-growing states in the Northeast and Midwest, according to new population estimates by the U.S. Bureau of the Census. The only state in the Midwest and Northeast with faster growth since Census 2000 was New Hampshire. Minnesota continues to receive new residents from other states and nations. The Census Bureau estimates indicate net in-migration of 17,500 persons from other states and from abroad. Since April 1, 2000, the amount of net in-migration from other countries was twice the amount of net in-migration from other states. About two-thirds of Minnesota’s growth is due to natural increase, the difference between births and deaths. Natural increase in Minnesota is slowing, a trend observed since the last decade. “These latest estimates from the federal government confirm that Minnesota remains a destination of choice, with a high quality of life and a strong business climate,” said Dean Barkley, director of Minnesota Planning. Minnesota ranks 21st nationally in total population size, but 14th in numeric change and 19th in rate of change since Census 2000. Among Minnesota's neighbors, Wisconsin and South Dakota increased by 0.7 percent and 0.2 percent, respectively, while Iowa and North Dakota dropped by 0.1 percent and 1.2 percent, respectively. Nevada was the fastest growing state in the nation, with an increase of 5.4 percent, while California had the largest numeric increase at 629,500 people. North Dakota experienced the largest numeric and percentage loss of population since Census 2000. "In the next few months, the State Demographic Center will be preparing 2001 population and household estimates for counties, cities and townships," said state demographer Tom Gillaspy. Those estimates will be released in summer 2002.