Wisconsin boasts diverse landscapes and cultures, spanning from the urban hubs of Milwaukee and Madison to the rural expanses of the Driftless region and the Northwoods.
While the overall state population increased by 3.6% between 2010 and 2020, not every county followed this trend. Indeed, approximately 30% of counties, mainly in rural areas, saw a decline in residents during this period. What factors contributed to this population decrease, and what does it mean for the future of these communities?
This article delves into the five Wisconsin counties that witnessed the most substantial percentage-wise population decline since 2010.
Richland County
Richland County is located in the southwest corner of Wisconsin, nestled in the heart of the Driftless region. Its population of 17,088 reflects a 5.18% decrease since 2010, making it the county with the highest population decline in the state. Richland Center, the largest city with a population of 4,894, serves as the county seat.
Predominantly rural, Richland County has a low population density of 29 people per square mile. The median household income is $50,876, which is below the state average of $64,168. The poverty rate stands at 12.8%, slightly higher than the state average of 10.4%.
The county’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, with a focus on dairy farming. Additionally, manufacturing, health care, and education contribute significantly. Noteworthy is the presence of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Richland, a two-year campus offering associate degrees and transfer programs.
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Rusk County
Rusk County, located in the northwest region of Wisconsin along the Flambeau River, has a population of 14,017, showing a 5% decrease since 2010. It is the second county in the state to experience the most significant decline in population. The county seat is Ladysmith, also the largest city, with a population of 3,180.
Primarily rural, Rusk County has a low population density of 15 people per square mile. The median household income is $47,279, which is below the state average of $64,168. The poverty rate is 13.9%, surpassing the state average of 10.4%.
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Crawford County
Crawford County, located in the southwestern part of Wisconsin along the Mississippi River, has a population of 15,954, showing a 4.15% decrease since 2010. It is the third county in the state with the highest population decline. The county seat, Prairie du Chien, is also the largest city, with a population of 5,911.
Crawford County is mainly rural, characterized by a low population density of 28 people per square mile. The median household income is $49,536, which is lower than the state average of $64,168. The poverty rate is 13.1%, exceeding the state average of 10.4%.
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Taylor County
Taylor County is located in the north-central part of Wisconsin, alongside the Black River. It has a population of 19,679, experiencing a 4.88% decrease since 2010, ranking as the fourth county in the state with the highest population loss. Medford is both the county seat and the largest city, with a population of 4,326.
The county’s economic foundation relies mainly on manufacturing, forestry, agriculture, and tourism. Taylor County’s declining population can be attributed to factors such as an aging demographic, the migration of young adults, limited job opportunities, and the decreasing number of small farms.
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Shawano County
Shawano County, located in the northeastern region of Wisconsin along the Wolf River, has a population of 40,560, indicating a 3.31% decrease since 2010. It holds the fifth position among Wisconsin counties experiencing the most substantial population decline. The city of Shawano, with a population of 9,305, serves as both the county seat and the largest city.
The county’s economic profile is primarily influenced by agriculture, particularly in dairy farming. Additionally, manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism contribute significantly to its economic landscape.
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Final Words
In this article, we’ve delved into the five Wisconsin counties witnessing the most significant population decline since 2010: Richland, Rusk, Crawford, Taylor, and Shawano.
Yet, we’ve also observed that these counties possess certain strengths and opportunities capable of reversing or alleviating the population decline. These assets include their abundant natural and cultural heritage, robust community bonds and civic involvement, as well as potential for economic growth and diversification.
Hence, our conclusion is that the decline in population within these counties is not an inevitable fate but rather a challenge that can be surmounted through creativity, collaboration, and innovation.
