Pennsylvania boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty; however, not all of its 67 counties are experiencing prosperity in the 21st century.
According to the 2020 Census, the state witnessed a population decline of approximately 40,000 residents, ranking it as the fourth-largest state to experience such a decrease, following New York, California, and Illinois.
Among the 40 counties in the state that are facing population shrinkage, five are declining at a more accelerated rate compared to the others.
These counties have witnessed a loss of over 10% of their population between 2010 and 2020, marking a reversal of the growth and development trend observed over several decades. This article will delve into these five counties, exploring the factors contributing to their rapid population decline.
Susquehanna County: -11.4%
Susquehanna County, situated in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania and bordering New York, is home to a population of 36,958, ranking it as the 60th most populous county in the state.
Notably, the county has faced a significant population decline of 11.4% since 2010, marking the largest decrease by percentage. This contrasts sharply with the preceding decade when the county experienced a population growth of 4.8%, attributed to the natural gas boom.
Unfortunately, the subsequent decrease in gas prices and production, coupled with a lack of economic diversification, has resulted in job losses and decreased income for many residents.
Read More: Exploring the 5 Counties in Tennessee With the Most Rapid Population Decline
Cameron County: -10.6%
Cameron County, situated in the north-central region of Pennsylvania and surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, holds a population of 4,385, rendering it the least populated county in the state.
Since 2010, Cameron County has seen the second-largest percentage decline in population, losing 10.6% of its residents. This continues a longstanding trend, with the county experiencing a decline since 1940 when its population exceeded 12,000.
The county’s economic pillars rest on manufacturing, forestry, and tourism. However, these sectors have struggled to both sustain and attract an adequate workforce. Additionally, Cameron County faces challenges such as a high poverty rate and low educational attainment, constraining opportunities for growth and development.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Poorest City in Arkansas
Forest County: -9.6%
Forest County, situated in the northwestern part of Pennsylvania and encompassed by the Allegheny National Forest, is the second least populous county in the state, with a population of 6,751. Since 2010, it has experienced the third-largest population decline by percentage, losing 9.6% of its residents.
This marks a contrast to the prior decade when the county witnessed a 13.9% population increase, primarily attributed to the construction of a state prison.
However, the decline in the prison population over time, coupled with the county’s inability to retain or attract new residents, has contributed to the current demographic shift.
The county’s economic landscape relies heavily on the public sector, constituting over half of its employment. Additionally, Forest County grapples with a low birth rate and a high death rate, leading to a natural decrease in population. Development and growth face challenges due to the county’s remote location and insufficient infrastructure.
Read More: Exploring the 5 Counties in Alabama With the Most Rapid Population Decline
Sullivan County: -9.1%
Sullivan County is situated in the north-central area of Pennsylvania, nestled within the Endless Mountains region. With a population of 5,663, it ranks as the third least populous county in the state.
Since 2010, Sullivan County has seen the fourth-largest percentage decline in population, with a 9.1% decrease. While this marks a slight improvement from the previous decade, when the county experienced a 10.1% population decline.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Poorest City in South Carolina
Wyoming County: -7.8%
Wyoming County is situated in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania, specifically within the Wyoming Valley, with a population of 25,406, ranking it as the 52nd most populous county in the state.
Since 2010, Wyoming County has experienced the fifth-largest population decline by percent, witnessing a decrease of 7.8% in its residents. This marks a notable contrast to the preceding decade when the county had seen a population growth of 4.2%.
The county’s economy heavily relies on manufacturing, mining, and agriculture. However, these sectors have encountered challenges and declines in recent years.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Murder Capital of South Dakota
Conclusion
The top five counties in Pennsylvania experiencing the fastest population decline share common challenges, including economic stagnation, an aging demographic, and outmigration.
To address these issues, these counties must explore strategies to diversify their economies, draw in and keep a younger, skilled workforce, and enhance their social and physical infrastructure. Without such efforts, there’s a potential for further loss of residents and resources in the future.
