LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) Census data shows that Arkansas’ sustained population growth in 2018 was bolstered more by people migrating to the state than residents giving birth.
The figures include states, counties, metropolitan areas and micropolitan areas in the United States. Micropolitan areas have populations of at least 10,000 but fewer than 50,000.
The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports the U.S. Census Bureau publicly released its latest population estimates on Thursday.
The statistics show the state’s birthrate in 2018 was the lowest of this decade. Arkansas’ birthrate per 1,000 residents has dropped every year since 2010.
Economic experts say the decline is part of a nationwide trend and they worry it may hurt the economy.
A demographer at the University of Arkansas in Little Rock says immigration is vital to having a flourishing population.
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