Mississippi is among the states in the U.S. that witnessed a decrease in population over the past decade, as indicated by the 2020 census.
The state recorded a loss of 6,018 residents, equating to 0.2% of its population, between 2010 and 2020. This marks the third instance of population decline in Mississippi’s history and the first occurrence since 1960.
Despite some counties in Mississippi experiencing growth, particularly in the suburbs of Memphis and Jackson, numerous others faced significant losses.
The reasons for this population decline vary, encompassing factors such as limited economic opportunities, the outmigration of young people, an aging population, and high poverty rates.
This article will delve into the five counties in Mississippi that underwent the most rapid population decline in the past decade, drawing on data from the U.S. Census Bureau and Mississippi Today.
| County | Population (2020) | Population Change (2010-2020) | Poverty Rate |
| Quitman | 5,561 | -32.37% | 36.90% |
| Coahoma | 19,962 | -23.67% | 35.50% |
| Washington | 43,056 | -15.80% | 32.40% |
| Humphreys | 7,308 | -22.05% | 34.90% |
| Sunflower | 24,927 | -15.36% | 33.40% |
Quitman County
Quitman County, situated in the Mississippi Delta region and bordered by the Mississippi River, holds the distinction of being the state’s smallest county in terms of population.
In 2020, it counted a mere 5,561 residents, reflecting a significant 32.37% decrease from the figures recorded in 2010—the most substantial percentage decline among all Mississippi counties.
Characterized by a predominantly African American population, accounting for 70.4%, Quitman County also grapples with a notable poverty rate of 36.9%. The county’s economic landscape heavily relies on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of cotton and soybeans.
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Coahoma County
Coahoma County, situated in the Mississippi Delta region and bordered by the Mississippi River, holds the distinction of being the birthplace of the blues.
Notably, it is home to the renowned Crossroads, a site steeped in legend where it is said that Robert Johnson made a Faustian bargain with the devil to acquire musical prowess. Drawing visitors from across the globe, the county boasts a vibrant cultural heritage.
Despite its cultural significance, Coahoma County has grappled with significant challenges over the past decade, experiencing a notable 23.67% decrease in population, dropping from 26,151 in 2010 to 19,962 in 2020. The county is characterized by a predominantly African American population (75.8%) and faces a substantial poverty rate of 35.5%.
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Washington County
Washington County, positioned as the third county in the Mississippi Delta region on the list, shares a border with the Mississippi River. With a population of 43,056 residents in 2020, it stands as the most populous county in the region. However, this figure reflects a 15.8% decline from the 2010 population of 51,137 residents.
Characterized by a predominantly African American population at 71.4%, Washington County also grapples with a high poverty rate of 32.4%. The county’s economic landscape is heavily reliant on agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of catfish and rice.
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Humphreys County
Humphreys County, situated in the central part of the Mississippi Delta region, holds the fourth position on this list. Despite being one of the smallest counties in Mississippi, covering just 162 square miles, it also ranks among the least populated, with a count of 7,308 residents as of 2020. This marks a 22.05% decline from the 2010 population of 9,375.
Characterized by a predominantly African American population at 72.8%, Humphreys County faces a high poverty rate of 34.9%. The county’s economic landscape is primarily centered around agriculture, with a focus on catfish and soybeans.
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Sunflower County
Sunflower County, situated in the northern part of the Mississippi Delta region, holds the distinction of being the fifth and final county on this list.
Noteworthy for being the birthplace of civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer and housing the Mississippi State Penitentiary, commonly known as Parchman Farm, the county boasts a rich yet troubled history.
Over the last decade, Sunflower County has witnessed a population decrease of 15.36%, declining from 29,450 in 2010 to 24,927 in 2020. Characterized by a predominantly African American population (72.9%) and a substantial poverty rate (33.4%), the county’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, with a particular emphasis on cotton and corn.
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Conclusion
Mississippi boasts a rich and intricate history, culture, and geography, yet it grapples with significant challenges, particularly in the Mississippi Delta region, where a notable decline in population has taken place.
The five counties highlighted in this article exemplify the trend of rapid population loss, shedding light on the underlying reasons for this decline.
Nevertheless, these counties harbor untapped potential and hope. They possess valuable assets, including natural resources, cultural heritage, and human capital.
Furthermore, they can draw support from various partners, such as local organizations, regional agencies, and state and federal governments. Opportunities, like emerging markets, technologies, and innovations, also present avenues for growth.
The fate of these counties, and by extension, Mississippi, hinges on the actions taken today and the shared vision for tomorrow.
Through collaborative efforts and shared learning, these counties can surmount their challenges, working towards a future where population decline is reversed, paving the way for a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable existence within the state.
