Oregon boasts diverse landscapes, a vibrant culture, and ample natural resources. Nevertheless, not every county in the state is flourishing. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that from 2021 to 2022, 21 out of Oregon’s 36 counties witnessed a decline in residents, contributing to an overall population decrease of over 16,000 people.
This piece delves into the five counties that encountered the most significant population decline, measured by the percentage decrease from 2020 to 2022. It also explores potential reasons behind the shrinkage in these counties.
Multnomah County
Multnomah County, situated in the northern Willamette Valley, holds the dual distinction of being both the most populous and the smallest county in Oregon by area. Notably, it encompasses Portland, the state’s most populous city, and Gresham, ranking fourth in population.
In the span from 2020 to 2022, Multnomah County witnessed a decline in its population from 816,467 to 795,083, reflecting a loss of 21,384 individuals and a 2.62% decrease.
One plausible factor contributing to this population shift is the aging demographic within Multnomah County. Ethan Sharygin, the director of Portland State University’s Population Research Center, suggests that the migration of older residents to more affordable suburban areas, such as Washington and Clackamas counties, could be a significant contributing factor.
Read More: Exploring the 5 Counties in Alaska With the Most Rapid Population Decline
Jackson County
Jackson County, situated in the Klamath Mountains of southern Oregon and sharing a border with Siskiyou County, California to the south, holds the sixth position in terms of population among Oregon’s counties.
Renowned for its picturesque features, including Crater Lake National Park, Rogue River, and the Ashland Shakespeare Festival, Jackson County witnessed a decrease in population from 223,613 in 2020 to 221,644 in 2022—a decline of 1,970 people, marking a 0.88% reduction.
A contributing factor to the population downturn in Jackson County could be attributed to the statewide trend of declining birth rates in Oregon. The Oregon Health Authority reported a 4.3% decrease in births from 2019 to 2020, reaching the lowest levels seen since 1988.
Read More: This New Jersey City Has Been Named as the Highest Obesity Rate in the State
Josephine County
Josephine County, situated in the Rogue Valley of southwestern Oregon and bordering California to the south, holds the 13th position in Oregon’s list of most populous counties.
It derives its name from Josephine Rollins, the first white woman to establish residence in southern Oregon. Over the period from 2020 to 2022, the county’s population saw a decline from 88,664 to 88,126, marking a loss of 538 individuals and a decrease of 0.61%.
Similar to Jackson County, Josephine County might have encountered a reduction in population due to a combination of factors such as a low birth rate and a high death rate.
Furthermore, the county might have witnessed out-migration, possibly influenced by its comparatively low median household income and one of the highest poverty rates in Oregon.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Worst City to Live in Pennsylvania
Lane County
Lane County, situated on the Pacific coast in the western part of Oregon, holds the position as the state’s fourth-most populous county. Named after Joseph Lane, Oregon’s inaugural governor, the county is notable for housing Eugene, the state’s second-largest city, and the University of Oregon, the flagship public university.
Over the period of 2020 to 2022, Lane County experienced a slight population decrease from 382,986 to 381,893, reflecting a loss of 1,093 individuals and a 0.29% decline.
A plausible factor contributing to this population dip in Lane County is the nationwide trend of diminishing college enrollment. As per the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, the U.S. witnessed a notable 3.6% drop in college enrollment from fall 2019 to fall 2020, marking the most significant decline since 2011.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Healthiest Place to Live in Maryland
Washington County
Washington County, situated in the northwestern part of Oregon within the Portland metropolitan area, holds the distinction of being the second-most populous county in the state. Its name pays homage to George Washington, the inaugural president of the United States.
This county stands out in Oregon due to its affluence and diversity, boasting a significant concentration of high-tech industries like Intel, Nike, and Tektronix.
In the span from 2020 to 2022, Washington County witnessed a slight decline in population, dropping from 601,592 to 600,649. This translates to a reduction of 943 individuals, marking a 0.16% decrease.
One potential factor contributing to the population dip in Washington County is the deceleration in international migration, aligning with a broader nationwide trend. The U.S. Census Bureau notes a 49% decline in net international migration to the U.S. from 2016 to 2020, reaching its lowest point since 1982.
Read More: Exploring the Magic: Discover Florida’s World-Famous Theme Parks
Conclusion
Oregon presents numerous attractions and opportunities, yet grapples with challenges in sustaining population growth. Multnomah, Jackson, Josephine, Lane, and Washington counties encountered the most significant population decline from 2020 to 2022.
The potential causes for this decline encompass aging, the impact of Covid-19, a low birth rate, a high death rate, out-migration, wildfires, college enrollment fluctuations, and international migration. While the influence and significance of these factors may differ across counties, collectively, they mirror the evolving dynamics of Oregon’s population.
